Myrtle Beach Inshore Fishing Report for February

Inshore Fishing Report for February: The Best Spots & Strategies

February Inshore Fishing

Inshore fishing in February offers some of the clearest and most beautiful waters of the year. With fish congregating in predictable locations, anglers have the chance to sight-fish large schools of redfish, black drum, and trout. However, as water temperatures drop, fish metabolism slows down, making bait selection and strategy critical.

Why February is a Great Month for Inshore Fishing

• Water clarity is at its peak, making sight-fishing more effective.
• Fish are grouped into large winter schools, increasing the chances of finding them.
• Less boat traffic results in quieter, more productive fishing spots.
• Cold temperatures make fish more predictable in their movements.

Best Locations for Inshore Fishing in February

The north end of the Grand Strand is one of the top spots for February fishing, with redfish, trout, and black drum concentrated in certain areas:

• Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) – Provides structure where fish take refuge.
• Shallow Flats – Ideal for sight-fishing redfish.
• Docks and Piers – Attract black drum and redfish.
• Jetties and Rock Piles – Excellent locations for catching speckled trout.

Target Species in February

The three main species to target in February include:

1. Redfish – Found in large winter schools, often around structure.
2. Speckled Trout – Prefers jetties and deep channels with live shrimp.
3. Black Drum – Best caught using fresh shrimp near docks and ledges.

Redfish: Patterns & Best Baits

Redfish will be grouped up into large winter schools. While they can be easy to spot, they can also be reluctant to bite, especially when avoiding predators like dolphins.

• Best Baits: Fresh-cut shrimp on a jighead, soft plastics, or live mullet.
• Where to Find Them: Around docks, oyster bars, and shallow mudflats.
• Best Time to Fish: Midday when the sun warms the water.

Trout: Where to Find Them & How to Catch Them

Despite the cold, trout remain active in February and can be caught using artificial lures and live shrimp.

• Best Locations: Intracoastal Waterway, jetties, and deep holes.
• Best Baits: Vudu Shrimp, DOA lures, and live shrimp.
• Best Techniques: Slow retrieves and suspending baits to mimic injured baitfish.

Black Drum: Seasonal Behavior & Bait Selection

Black drum are another prime target during February, often found around docks and deep ledges.

• Best Locations: ICW ledges, deep holes, and dock pilings.
• Best Baits: Fresh or frozen shrimp, fiddler crabs.
• Fishing Tip: Use light tackle and fish close to the bottom for the best results.

Best Baits & Lures for February Inshore Fishing

The cold temperatures require slow-moving presentations and natural baits. Some top choices include:

• Live Shrimp: Best for trout and black drum.
• Soft Plastics (Paddle Tails, Shrimp Imitations): Great for redfish and trout.
• Cut Bait (Mullet, Menhaden): Works well for redfish.
• Jigheads: Effective for presenting shrimp and soft plastics.

Tide and Weather Considerations

Understanding how tides and weather affect fish behavior is crucial:

• Outgoing Tide: Best for fishing jetties and creek mouths.
• Incoming Tide: Good for flats and shallows where redfish feed.
• Cold Fronts: Can slow down the bite; fish deeper water during temperature drops.

Essential Gear for Inshore Fishing in February

Having the right gear makes a big difference:

• Medium-Light Rod (7’ to 7’6”) – Ideal for sensitivity and casting distance.
• Spinning Reel (2500-4000 size) – Handles inshore species well.
• Fluorocarbon Leader (15-20lb test) – Helps with stealth in clear waters.
• Warm Waterproof Clothing – February can be cold, so layering is key.

Final Tips for a Successful February Inshore Fishing Trip

• Stay Stealthy: Fish are skittish in clear water, so move slowly.
• Use Smaller Lures: Fish have slower metabolisms and prefer easy meals.
• Watch for Birds: Diving birds often indicate baitfish presence, which attracts gamefish.
• Try Different Depths: Fish may be deep or shallow depending on the time of day and tide.

Conclusion

Fishing in February can be highly rewarding if you understand the behavior of inshore species and adapt your strategies accordingly. By focusing on structure, using the right bait, and paying attention to tides, you can have a productive fishing experience.

For more expert inshore fishing tips, check out this guide on winter fishing techniques. 🎣