First half of March redfishing report and what we are looking forward to including TARPON FISHING!

Charleston, SC March Fishing Report!

Fly Fishing Charleston, SC: Weekly Report, Tides, and Local Fly Life

Stay up to date with the latest fly fishing reports, tides, and tips in Charleston, SC. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter and never miss what’s biting!

Click here to view or download March.5 2025 Newsletter here!

There’s an unmistakable electricity in the air as early spring settles in—a teasing hint of summer rides the breeze, carrying the scent of salt and new life. The marsh awakens in slow, steady rhythm, spartina grass flushing green, fiddler crabs emerging like tiny sentinels, and the tides delivering fresh bait to waiting predators. The seasoned watermen know the magic number—the water temperature that signals the shift—and as it creeps closer, so do the big bull redfish, pushing into the shallows, pushing a torpedo size wake. The stage is set, the anticipation thick, and the season of fly fishing glory is about to begin.

March fly fishing brings a mix of challenge and opportunity, as shifting weather patterns and rising water temperatures push redfish out of their deep winter haunts. The persistent spring winds have funneled us into more protected areas—creeks, back bays, and leeward shorelines—where the water warms faster over midday low tides. This transition period can be tricky. Fish are eager to explore the shallows but remain cautious, often laid up and reluctant to chase. However, when the tide aligns just right, they’ll commit in short, aggressive feeding windows. Paying close attention to past feeding patterns is crucial; a school that fed hard on the last two hours of the falling tide for consecutive days might suddenly shift and key in on the incoming tide instead. The changing nature of these bite windows makes time on the water invaluable, as even subtle shifts in tide stages and temperature can dramatically alter feeding behavior.

As water temps continue to climb, large winter schools begin to break up into smaller pods of two to seven fish, offering exciting opportunities for precision casting and sight fishing. Targeting single fish in these pods allows for more controlled presentations, but finesse is key. Weighted flies remain the go-to choice, allowing for a slow, deliberate descent in front of wary reds. Strips should be subtle—steady and smooth rather than sharp or erratic, as aggressive movements are spooking more fish than they’re attracting. Interestingly, fly color seems to be a non-factor at this stage, making this the perfect time to experiment. Play around with different patterns, test out new materials, and fine-tune your approach. March demands patience, adaptability, and a keen eye, but those who dial into the rhythm of the water will find themselves in the right place at the right time when the bite turns on.

Florida Tarpon Season: Big Fish, Big Plans

The taste of summer is in the air, and with it comes the vision of giant silver fish exploding from crystal-clear water—tarpon season is almost here. There’s nothing quite like the rush of throwing an 11-weight fly rod at a 100+ pound tarpon, watching it inhale the fly, and then launching into a series of acrobatic leaps. As we look ahead, it’s time to start locking in summer fishing plans.

From the beginning of June through the first week of August, I, Capt. Kyle Morella, will be in Apalachicola, FL, guiding anglers through one of the most exhilarating fly-fishing experiences on the planet. Dates are limited, so if you’re looking to chase these legendary fish, reach out via email or phone to check availability. Need recommendations on lodging or travel? We’ve got you covered, with luxurious accommodations that provide the perfect place to unwind after long days on the water. Tarpon season waits for no one—let’s get your trip on the books!