Where To Fish In Coastal Georgia

Inshore fishing in the coastal areas of Georgia can be super rewarding but also challenging. Charter boat captains can make even a four-hour trip look as though you can go out and replicate the results independently of a guide day after day. Remember, these are experts in the area who track fish’s movement because they are on the water nearly every day of the week. Let’s look at ways to seek out where fish are most likely to be found.

What Kind of Fish Can You Catch In Georgia

What kind of fish are most commonly sought after in coastal Georgia when you’re fishing? You may as well understand what you are going after before you head out for the day.

The most prized catch in the area are the following:

  1. Speckled Trout
  2. Redfish
  3. Flounder
  4. Sheepshead
  5. Black Drum

Do I Need A Fishing License In Georgia?

We can’t stress this enough, if you are heading out fishing, check the regulations. Most of the time in North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia you are going to need a fishing license. Fishing licenses are a good thing for us boaters, it helps protect our local waters to make sure we can all enjoy them for years to come.

Remember to purchase a Georgia saltwater fishing license or check the expiration date of the license you currently have. 

Where Can I Find Fish In Georgia?

Bait and birds are a big teller of fish being present in the area. As fish feed, they follow around the bait schools. Birds are also attracted to the bait because they also feed on baitfish.

Joining creeks are also a common area that fish tend to congregate. As the tide falls, sportfish move out of the small creeks and into the main waterways with deeper water. 

If you’re moving along in your boat when the tide is low, look for oyster beds that are below the surface at higher tides and mark the location, fish will hangout near these beds when waiting for the tide level to reach the grass. 

On high tides, focus on the grass lines. In particular, redfish will swim into the grass areas and forage for the next meal lurking along the edge. 

There is one really great way to spot redfish when you are fishing inshore in Georgia. Channel Bass (or Redfish) are known for cruising with the top of the tail halfway out of the water. Sight fishing can be a fun experience. 

In the summer months, target lower areas of the water column. As the water temperatures head up to summer highs, the bite tends to be deeper.

What type of rig should I use to catch fish in coastal Georgia?

The best approach to catching a wide range of edible species is by using a popping cork. One of the best on the market is a Cajun Thunder.

How to rig a popping cork

Attached the top of the popping cork to the mainline. The top is the colored bead and not the brass bead.

Attach a leader to the bottom of the cork that is suitable for the depth of the water and time of year. 

Slide an 1/8 ounce bullet weight onto the leader.

Tie a 1/0 circle hook at the end of the leader.

What type of bait catches inshore fish in coastal Georgia?

Live shrimp is exceptional. The bait can be caught by throwing a cast net or buying them at a local live bait shop.

Finger mullet are often found in the mix of shrimp and can be equally is good.

Large mullet are great to cut into chunk bait. It’s a drum fish favorite.

Why is a popping cork called a popping cork?

A popping cork makes a popping sound when the cork is floating on the surface, and you moderately pull back on the rod every five seconds. 

The pop noise resembles the sound of a feeding fish to attract them towards your bait. 

Finding honey holes filled with your choice of the fresh catch can be a bit like playing hide-and-go-seek. Finding key indicators will help put you on the fish faster. The Georgia coastline has an abundance of fish; following these steps will help lead to an exciting day on the water for you, your family, and friends. Hopefully our tips on how to find inshore fish in Georgia has helped give you a bit of inspiration.