Fishing in Santee Cooper Lake

Santee Cooper Country boasts some of the best fishing in the Palmetto State. From South Carolina’s “Great Lakes” of Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie to the Wateree River, there are a lot of places to catch a big one.

Have a particular fish in mind? There’s a good chance we have it here. Santee Cooper Country is known for the channel catfish—and it’s very possible that you could catch a 20+ pound fish. If you prefer bass, we have both the striped bass with a fishing season in the spring and fall, and the largemouth bass that you can hook year-round.

Fishing Seasons and Limits for the Santee Cooper Lakes

Trying to figure out when to visit South Carolina’s “Great Lakes” to catch a big one? The good news is almost any time of the year is good due to our temperate weather. Just keep in mind the striped bass season is open only from October 1 to June 15. Additionally, be sure to check out the creel limits for the different fish the region has to offer. While each species has its own limits, no more than 40 game fish overall may be kept in one day.

Creel Limits

Stay Lakeside.

If your idea of a five-star hotel is more like a night under the stars, look no further than Santee Cooper County, South Carolina, where we have a number of campgrounds and marinas.

Vacation Rentals & Marinas

Guide Services.

Local experts guide your fishing group to where the fish will bite. Choose from a range of species and set out to the water to learn from the best in our area.

Local Experts

Fishing Attractors.

Multiple buoys and boat ramps are charted for Lake Marion and Moultrie, making navigating to the best fishing holes much easier. Find a list of GPS coordinates and more information here.

Where the Fish Bite