Fishing Charters in South Carolina
Browse fishing charters in South Carolina that can help you catch catfish.
Best Time to Catch Catfish
Catfish can be caught year-round in Rock Hill. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Catfish
Rock Hill provides access to some fantastic catfishing on the Catawba River and Lake Wylie. Channels, blues, and flatheads all call these waters home. For channel cats, you can't go wrong with stink baits, cut bait, or nightcrawlers. Blues often prefer larger cut bait, while flatheads are notorious for hitting live bait, especially bream or shad. Summer nights are ideal for targeting catfish, as they become more active in the cooler temperatures. Focus on areas with deep holes, current breaks, and submerged structure. A local hotspot is the area below the dams on the Catawba, but be mindful of swift currents. Many anglers find success fishing from the banks around the public access points. Don't be afraid to experiment with different baits and locations, as catfish can be finicky. The catfish in this region are known to reach impressive sizes, so heavy tackle is recommended!
How to Catch Catfish
Catfish Fishing Regulations in South Carolina
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
South Carolina Fishing License
Certain lakes and rivers may have specific regulations regarding the use of jugs or trotlines; consult the SC Department of Natural Resources regulations.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the South Carolina state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in South Carolina
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the regulations for keeping catfish in South Carolina?
There is no limit on the number of catfish you can keep per day in South Carolina, and there are no size restrictions. However, you will still need a valid South Carolina fishing license.
Do I need a special license to fish for catfish in Rock Hill?
No, you do not need a special license. A standard South Carolina fishing license covers all freshwater species, including catfish.
What's a good bait to use for catfish in the Rock Hill area?
Commonly used and effective catfish baits in the Rock Hill area include cut bait (like shad or herring), chicken livers, nightcrawlers, and commercial catfish baits. Experiment to see what works best on a given day.
Can you fish for catfish year-round in Rock Hill, SC?
Yes, the catfish season is open year-round in South Carolina, allowing you to target them whenever you like.
More Catfish Fishing in South Carolina
Other Species to Fish in Rock Hill
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