Striped Bass

If you're looking for freshwater striped bass action in South Carolina, Gaston offers access to the diverse fishery of Lake Murray. This isn't your typical coastal striper experience; these fish are landlocked and behave differently. The best time to target them is during the cooler months, from late fall through early spring, when they move shallower to feed and spawn. Look for schooling activity near points and humps, especially where there's current. Trolling live herring or shad is a productive method, as is casting swimbaits or crankbaits around structure. A local tip: pay attention to the water clarity; stripers prefer clearer water, so focus your efforts in areas less affected by recent rains. There are several public boat ramps around Lake Murray, but the ramp at Dreher Island State Park offers excellent access to prime striper habitat. Be aware that Lake Murray can get crowded on weekends, so plan accordingly.