June 15
Inshore surface temperatures on the north end of the Grand Strand are around 78 degrees. With the Waccamaw River flooded for the last week the water has been darker, and a new round of rain will probably keep it that way.
There are good summer fishing conditions north of Myrtle Beach, and Captain Patrick “Smiley” Kelly (843-361-7445) reports that the big four inshore species are all biting well.
Inside the creeks trout and redfish are eating live shrimp fished against the grass. The rising tide and the beginning of the outgoing have been best, and cut mullet fished against the grass is also working well for redfish.
Small black drum are also being caught around docks, shell beds, and downed trees on live or cut shrimp. Lower stages of the tide have fished the best.
The flounder action has been good on live mullet or mud minnows, and artificial baits such as white Gulp! jerk shad fished on a 3/8 ounce jighead have also been effective. Both trolling and casting have been working.
The jetties have also been productive, with trout, redfish and black drum and being caught on live shrimp.
In the surf, Cherry Grove Pier (843-249-1625) reports that the king mackerel fishing has been phenomenal. Last Wednesday an incredible 13 fish were caught, and over the weekend an additional 8 or 9 fish were landed. The usual suspects of bluefish, whiting, and a few spots are also around.
Nearshore Captain Smiley reports that there are tons of spadefish on the reefs, and there are also cobia around. They have caught some big fish over 36 inches dropping live pinfish down on the bottom.
Spanish mackerel can also be caught trolling Clarks Spoons on #1 planers around the tide lines and sea buoys.
Blue water fishing has been limited since there has been so much wind over the last two weeks, and in the king mackerel tournament this weekend most boats stayed close to shore.

Jay A’Hern
Angler’s Headquarters (www.AnglersHeadquarters.com)
P.O. Box 50225
Columbia, SC 29250
jay@usfishingreport.com