Fishing is at its finest on Hilton Head Island during the month of October.
It is the perfect month on the Lowcountry waters with pleasant temperatures, lower humidity and blue skies.
For the water people, the most visible sign that fall is here is the color change of the marsh grass. In summer months, the grass is a brilliant green. As fall approaches, it gives way to the golden color of wheat.
Inshore fishing for redfish, speckled trout and flounder can be described as “A-Number-1“. Live bait, dead and cut bait or artificials all work well during this time of year.
The fall king mackerel run will begin this month as the water temperature slides down to around 65 degrees.
Schools of kings may venture very close to the front beach. This means short running times and little fuel burned – which, in itself, is a big plus.
In this same area will be huge schools of the bull reds, which can range from 25-40 pounds. These near shore bullies roam around the middle ground and sand bars like a herd of buffalo. They seldom are in the same place two days in a row. So keep your eyes open for signs, like birds diving or disturbed water.
Bottom fishing for black sea bass will also increase due to the falling water temperatures, as well as the gray trout or weakfish in 30 feet or more of water.
Inshore or offshore, do yourself and a friend a favor and sample what October on Hilton Head Island has to offer.
Courtesy of Blue Water Tackleshop
The experts at Blue Water TackleShop in South Beach Marina have a full charter fleet. Our experienced captains who know where the fish are. South Beach Marina is the closest marina to the ocean. This means more fishing and less traveling. 843-671-3060 or www.bluewaterhhi.com.