Fishing Southern Tidal Rivers

Starting in Virginia and moving down the Eastern shore of the US, to the Carolinas, Georgia, Florida and then continuing along the coast, heading west through Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and on to Texas there are numerous tidal rivers that hold a large number of bass and other fish. This includes rivers like the Chickahominy, James, Santee-Cooper and St Johns to name just a few.

One of the exciting parts of fishing these tidal waters is the variety of the fish population. Where fresh and salt water species mix, it is not unusual to catch a largemouth bass or striper on one cast and hook up with a redfish or speckled trout on the next. In tidal waters most fishing is done in the shallows at depths that rarely exceed 10 feet enabling access from the shore, by wading or from a boat. Fisherman customarily target one of 2 areas dependent on what species they are aiming for. Some fish prefer back water tributaries while others gather in the primary tidal channels.

In the backwater areas, you will encounter flooded trees, lily pads, hydrilla and different types of foliage that create heavy cover for small groupings of fish. These locations are no place for ultra light tackle and it is wise to use 15 lb to 20 lb test line. The best lures differ by season with spinner baits, buzzbaits, top water lures and Texas rigged worms among the preferred options. Backwater fishing can be quite good during the spring, summer and fall but because the water is very shallow during cold winter days the fish will tend to become inactive.

In the tidal river channel almost all of the fish relate to slack water sections like eddies created by both natural and manmade obstructions. Fishing in the depths of the main river channel away from these slack areas is unproductive.The key difference between fishing a tidal river and other bodies of water is the significant influence of the tides on the fish.

Since the current flows in two directions, locations that could be dead water on an outgoing tide, will be fully packed with fish when the flow reverses 9 to 10 hours later . So a knowledge of the timing and nature of the tides is an important part of fishing tidal water. Fishing also is better when the tide is changing direction and the current slows down. Fish want to feed at these times because they are able to exert less energy than having to chase baitfish in a heavy current. Lures that work best in the main river channel are plastic worms, jigs and crankbaits.

Tidal rivers are under fished due to the added difficulty of the angling, but once mastered are a a constant source of fantastic fishing.

FIshing rivers and streams is a fun and relaxing hobby. Click on the links Youth Waders and Wader Boots to learn about some of the oerlooked fishing equipment that helps in pursuing this hobby: