Anglers who do not have a boat but are looking for saltwater fishing access should never look past a lagoon. The coastal areas of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia have an abundance of saltwater ponds fed by the tides of nearby marshes. With the influx of new water on every high tide, fish are well fed and grow large. Here are tips on how to catch fish in saltwater lagoons. 

Can You Catch Fish In Lagoons

Anglers of all ages can catch fish in saltwater ponds. The sizes of the fish within the body of water will vary by species making it ideal for experienced and inexperienced fisherman.

When determining what kind of gear is needed, don’t assume it will be an expensive adventure. Low-cost rods, reels, tackle, and bait is all that’s necessary.

What Kind Of Fish Are Found In Saltwater Ponds

Many wouldn’t think that the same types of fish caught out in the open inland waters are most of the same varieties landed in lagoons. 

The fish species include redfish, black drum, sheepshead, sea trout, ladyfish, tarpon, flounder, and pinfish.

Most anglers target redfish because they are excellent fighters. In addition to the game quality, they make for a great picture due to the reddish-bronze color and iconic black spot near the tail. 

One of the most spectacular jumpers is the tarpon. The tarpon is a large-scaled silver-colored fish that incredibly acrobatic and as a result puts on a show. 

Flounder, a flatfish, lies on the lagoon’s bottom, waiting to ambush food as it passes by. The bottom of a flounder is white, while the top is brown. When hooked, flounder make deep-diving runs. 

How Do You Catch Redfish In Lagoons

One of the easiest and most effective ways to catch redfish in a saltwater pond is with a popping cork. 

A popping cork is tied to the line at the end of the fishing rod for visibility purposes. Next, below the cork is 1-3 foot twenty pound fluorocarbon fishing leader and an â…› ounce weight on the leader above the hook. As a

Use a live mullet or shrimp on the hook. Cast around grassy shorelines, submerged trees, and areas around pipes where the water is flowing in or out. Pop the cork gently every twenty seconds. 

What Is The Best Bait For Lagoon Fishing

Two options are available when choosing what type of bait to use in a lagoon. The two choices are live bait or artificials. 

Live baits such as finger mullet or shrimp are hard to pass up by almost any fish swimming in a saltwater lagoon. The bait is presented under a popping cork on a hook or directly on the seafloor with a weight to allow for the best visibility for a fish. 

A second option is artificial lures. There are many options when selecting artificials. Keep in mind, one of the most widely used lures in saltwater lagoons is jigs. The jigs tipped with soft plastic scented baits by companies like Gulp draw more strikes.

Do You Need A License To Fish In Saltwater Ponds

A fishing license should be obtained whenever engaging in fishing if over sixteen years of age to avoid being fined. The Department Of Natural Resources can check for a valid fishing permit.

To avoid costly penalties in Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina purchase a saltwater fishing license before heading to the lagoon. 

Can You Eat Fish From Saltwater Lagoons

Eating fish from a saltwater lagoon is highly dependent on the location. Salt ponds situated along golf courses will have contaminants and therefore people can become sick from eating them.

Many lagoons are in obscure areas away from places where dangerous chemicals will enter the water. Evaluate the surrounding area and monitor the tidal flow to ensure ample amounts of seawater are entering and exiting the lagoon each day. 

Gather The Gear And Head To The Lagoon

One of the most fun things about fishing lagoons is the ability to site cast. Anglers spot fish along the shore or near the surface and sometimes in large schools. When fish are not in sight, it does not mean they are not present. Take a cast and try your luck on the fun sportfish that call lagoons home.