Flathead Catfish

For flathead catfish enthusiasts, Pinewood, SC, provides access to the Santee Cooper lakes, Marion and Moultrie, which are legendary for their trophy flatheads. These whiskerfish thrive in the lakes' abundant forage and deep, woody structure. The best time to target flatheads here is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall, when they are actively feeding. Use live bait, such as bream or bullheads, fished near submerged timber, creek channels, or deep holes. Many anglers prefer to anchor and fish on the bottom, while others have success drifting. A heavy rod and reel are essential for handling the powerful runs of these fish. A local tip: focus on areas where the old river channels intersect with the lake's main body. Be aware of any size or possession limits enforced by the SCDNR. The Santee Cooper lakes are known for holding some truly massive flatheads, offering anglers the chance to catch a fish of a lifetime.