The American Southeast is truly an angler’s paradise. In lakes and on the sea, you’ll find trout, redfish, flounder, grouper and trophy-size bass ready to catch your line. But where should you cast your line first — and how do you dress for the ideal fishing day?
From deep-sea fishing excursions to fishing in freshwater lakes and rivers, the best fishing locations in the Southeast are sure to lure you in. Follow our guide for quality fishing in the South, along with our recommendations for the best fishing gear on the market.
The Best Fishing Locations in the Southeast
The best season to fish tends to be spring or summer — which are also the best seasons to visit the South. Whether you’re fishing with your friends or casting your line solo, here are some of the best places to fish in the Southeast that will have you coming back for more.
The Florida Keys
Florida is dubbed the “Fishing Capital of the World,” and for good reason. Though you’ll find plenty of incredible fishing spots across the Sunshine State, The Florida Keys are one of the most highly sought-after places to fish for recreational and serious anglers alike.
The 125-mile-long arc of islands that make up The Florida Keys offers world-class fishing year-round and is home to coveted big game fish such as marlin, sailfish and swordfish. The Marquesas Keys and Key West flats are popular fishing spots, while Islamorada is known by many as the best deep-sea fishing in Florida. With easy access to the state’s buzzing nightlife and cultural attractions, The Keys are also an amazing destination for anyone looking for a one-stop vacation spot.
Lake Guntersville, Alabama
Alabama is also home to some of the best fishing locations in the Southeast. In particular, Lake Guntersville is stocked with bass and hosts some of the best bass tournaments below the Mason-Dixon line. North and South Sauty Creeks are the most popular spots to cast a line, as you’ll find smallmouth, largemouth, white and spotted bass just below the lake’s surface.
But bass isn’t the only thing you can reel in at Lake Guntersville. You can also fish off the docks or from a boat/kayak for redear sunfish, crappie, sauger and catfish, all while taking in an Instagram-worthy sunset.
Chattahoochee River, Georgia
While the bass may be a favorite pastime down in the South, trout fishing in Georgia is nothing to scoff at. Chattahoochee River is a designated trout stream flowing through the Atlanta metropolitan area. It offers superb fishing opportunities for both rainbow trout and brown trout, as well as bass and catfish.
Chattahoochee River boasts plenty of spots for bank, wading, fly fishing and boating access. Try setting up along Bowman’s Island Trail below Buford Dam if you’ve got your wading gear, or cast a line off Settles Bridge or Jones Bridge for a chance to catch the biggest trout you’ve ever seen.
North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Any South Carolina fishing guide worth your time will include North Myrtle Beach as a must-see fishing destination. This area is a top fishing destination in the South due to its rich coastal waters, diverse fish species and year-round angling opportunities. It has inshore, offshore and pier fishing, making it ideal for all skill levels.
Fishermen can target redfish, flounder, speckled trout, king mackerel and even deep-sea species like tuna and mahi-mahi. The Intracoastal Waterway and artificial reefs provide excellent fishing spots, while guided charters ensure successful trips. With a mild climate, stunning scenery and a thriving fishing community, North Myrtle Beach offers an unforgettable experience for anglers of all kinds.
What To Wear Fishing
What you wear when fishing can be just as important as your fishing equipment, your stocked cooler, the keys to the boat and your fishing license. Well-planned fishing attire can determine whether you’re going to have the best fishing vacation ever — or a miserable day in the sun.
The secret is layering. Follow our guide to the best fishing gear (that doubles as a great summer wardrobe) to discover the best ways to stay comfortable and safe on a long day of fishing.
Performance Shirts
Performance fabrics aren’t just for activewear. These wicking shirts keep you cool and comfortable in the sun, especially if your fishing trip lasts all day. Consider these options for performance shirts:
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T-shirts made with cotton blends or stretch fabrics
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Performance polo shirts with high collars to protect your neck
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Button-down sport shorts with short sleeves to stay breezy and cool
Comfortable Shorts or Pants
Quick-drying shorts, pants, and trunks made with stretch fabrics are fishing trip essentials. Not only do they move with you for those quick casting movements, they fit comfortably under wading pants without overheating you on warm days. Add these bottoms to your fishing trip outfit:
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Casual shorts in your choice of colors and fabrics
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Comfortable pants in case the weather is overcast (or to protect your legs from the sun)
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Men’s swim trunks on especially warm afternoons, or if you’re taking a dip during the day
Lightweight Outerwear
Ideal for cool sunrise mornings and chilly evening fishing excursions, lightweight outerwear is a staple of the standard fishing outfit. You don’t need to pack a puffer or wool coat (unless it’s a very cold time of year), but these options are helpful in a punch:
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Jacket and vests made to layer over spring and summer clothing
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Quarter-zip pullovers and hoodies to pull on once the sun is down
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Quilted shackets for an extra level of warmth (and style)
Accessorize for Hot Weather
The best fishing gear includes accessories for convenient sun protection and comfort. Before you grab the bait box and pole, make sure to slip these into your dry bag:
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Hats and visors to keep the sun out of your eyes
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Sunglasses on a strap (and maybe a backup pair in case they fall off the boat)
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Boat flip flops that stay comfortable and functional wear after wear
Cold Weather Fishing Gear
Wintertime is a favorite for crappie anglers, as well as anyone seeking redfish, bonefish or trout. Keep extra clothes in your boat and wear plenty of layers while you stealthily cast your line close to shallow flats, where winter crappie are known to dwell.
High-quality outerwear is a great addition to your cold-weather fishing gear, as well as scarves, knit hats, thick socks and waterproof windbreakers.
Conclusion
For true fishermen and women, the best fishing vacations include a quiet creek, a cooler full of iced drinks and a lake teeming with hungry fish. With our guide to what to wear when fishing, you can spend less time picking out your clothes and more time picking out your bait.
Ready for more travel pointers? Check out our guide to boating, which includes safety tips and attire recommendations for any type of boat trip. If you’re heading overseas this summer, don’t miss our travel guide to Nevis — the best-kept secret of the Caribbean. At Southern Tide, we value your comfort and sense of style, whether it’s stateside or on the open seas.
