Black Sea Bass

If you're looking for some bottom fishing action, Black Sea Bass off Holden Beach can provide consistent catches. While available year-round, the cooler months of fall and winter often produce the largest fish. These bottom dwellers congregate around structure, so focus your efforts on artificial reefs, wrecks, and hard bottom areas within 10-20 miles of shore. Standard bottom fishing rigs baited with squid, cut bait, or shrimp are effective. A local tip: use a fish finder to locate promising structure and mark the areas where you get bites. Black Sea Bass are known to move around on the structure, so staying mobile and adjusting your position can be crucial. Also, be prepared for some bycatch, such as triggerfish and grunts, which often inhabit the same areas. Respect size and bag limits to help maintain this healthy fishery.