St Simons Island July Fishing Report

St. Simons Island Fishing Report: Sizzling Summer Action in July

 

Get ready to reel in a great catch! July on St. Simons Island brings some of the hottest fishing action of the year, both inshore and nearshore. As the Georgia coast heats up, so does the bite for a variety of popular species. From the thrill of battling a mighty Tarpon to the rewarding pursuit of Speckled Trout, here’s your guide to what’s biting, where to find them, and the best baits to use this month.

 

Inshore Fishing: Redfish, Trout, and More

 

The inshore waters of St. Simons are alive with activity in July. Anglers can expect to find a strong bite for several sought-after fish.

• Speckled Trout: The early morning and late evening hours are prime time for targeting speckled trout. They are congregating in creek mouths, around oyster beds, and other structured areas.
  • Hot Tip: A noisy popping cork with a live shrimp is a classic and effective combination. For artificial lures, try soft plastic jerk baits or jigs.
• Redfish: Redfish, also known as Red Drum, are a year-round favorite. In July, they can be found moving with the tides and feeding in the shallow marsh grass.
  • Hot Tip: Look for tailing redfish in the grass during high tides, especially around full and new moons. Try live bait like mud minnows or cut bait, or artificial lures like a 1/4-ounce jig head with a Gulp! Swimming Mullet.
• Flounder: Flounder fishing really picks up in the heat of the summer. Target creek mouths, bridges, and dock posts where they lie in wait to ambush bait.
  • Hot Tip: A Carolina rig with a mud minnow or live shrimp on the bottom is a proven method. You can also have success with a jig head and a soft plastic lure.

 

Nearshore and Offshore: Big Game and Big Fun

 

For those looking for a bigger fight, the nearshore and offshore waters are producing some fantastic catches.

• Tarpon: The “Silver King” arrives in good numbers starting in July. These powerful fish can be found off the beaches and in offshore channels, often seen rolling on the surface near schools of baitfish.
  • Hot Tip: Live menhaden (pogies) are a top choice for bait, fished under a cork or free-lined.
• Sharks: Shark fishing is in full swing in July. You can catch various species like Blacktips and Spinners both inshore and nearshore.
  • Hot Tip: Use a piece of fresh fish on the bottom near the ocean. For a more exciting experience, drift a live menhaden through bait schools off the beach.
• Whiting: Whiting fishing is a great option for a relaxing day on the beach or pier. They are abundant and biting well in July.
  • Hot Tip: Use dead shrimp on a Carolina rig fished on the bottom.

 

Essential Tips for July Fishing

 

• Beat the Heat: With the heat index averaging over 105°F, it’s crucial to fish during the cooler parts of the day. The early morning bite is often the most productive.
• Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water and sunscreen to stay safe on the water.
• Match the Hatch: Live bait, especially shrimp, mullet, and pogies, are often the most effective. Pay attention to what the fish are feeding on in the area you are fishing and try to use similar bait.