St. Simons Island has a well-earned reputation for being the place to go for a scenic getaway. The sheer variety of things to do, from relaxing on its long beaches to golfing and dining in fine restaurants, tends to win over even the most skeptical of visitors.
Nothing less can be said for the various St. Simons Island fishing charters. Most anglers focus on the inshore backcountry that's brimming with Redfish and Seatrout during the entire year. Add to that Sharks and Tarpon lurking nearshore, plus the likes of Kingfish, Cobia, and Red Snapper further offshore, and anglers here can have at least as much fun as everybody else.
St. Simons Island Fishing Spots
Fancy Bluff Creek
Right off the eastern shores of St. Simons, Fancy Bluff Creek provides prime fishing grounds for any angler who feels at home in shallow waters and flats. Going on a kayak, flats boat, or plain old wading is the way to go here. The marshes here are always full of surprises, so be ready for copious amounts of Jacks in the summer, and who knows what else.
Little St. Simons Island
Don't let the name fool you because Little St. Simons Island has its own thing going on, some 10 miles northwest of St. Simons proper. It's right next to the Altamaha River mouth and is a must-visit if you plan on hooking a fat Bull Redfish. It's never just about the Redfish, though — plenty of Trout, Flounder, and Sheepshead are here as well.
St. Simons Sound
Separating Jekyll Island from St. Simons Island is St. Simons Sound, an excellent option for inshore fishing if you're staying near the tip of either island. Sight fishing on a skiff during the winter months is a local favorite because the water is incredibly clear and welcoming. The July-September period is when everyone goes wild over Tarpon, and the Silver King will by no means be easy prey.
St Simons Fishing Pier
While there's always someone fishing at the pier, you're also bound to see loads of people who are just observing and taking in the sights. Most anglers prefer to go even further into the backcountry marshes where the volume of fish is much larger, but that is not to say you won't hook anything at the pier. Trout, Redfish, and Flounder are always present, and crabbing is extremely good if you're up for it.
Gulf Stream
If you've got enough time, you can head some 40-50 miles offshore and have a good chance of catching some quality game fish. Species like Kingfish, Cobia, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, and Grouper are all available on deep sea fishing charters. This kind of trip takes time, so make sure you've got at least eight hours to spend on the water
Alternatively, you can fish near the artificial reefs that are anywhere from 10-20 miles out from shore. These hold plenty of Black Seabass, Bluefish, and huge Bull Redfish. Various Sharks can be found somewhat closer to shore and can be great fun if going after Blacktips, Hammerheads, and Bonnetheads is up your alley.
Fishing Techniques
If you're looking to master the inshore waters and flats exclusively, it's highly recommended that you use ultra light spinning tackle for the best possible experience. Old hands will go as far as 2-pound lines, but feel free to stick to 6-pounders if you're more comfortable that way. Gold spoons are a mandatory part of every angler's inventory here. If you're lucky or skilled enough, you'll boat a Redfish, Flounder, Trout, and Black Drum in what's known as the Southeastern Super Slam.
The flats are also a fly fishing paradise, especially come winter when you're likely to find schooling fish in water just a few inches deep. Some common patterns used are darker toad and crab flies. Big Jacks make tempting targets for the fly angler, but be sure to have a 10 wt fly rod at the very least, because you do not want a 30-pound Jack hooked on anything lighter.
One thing to be mindful of when fishing these waters is the tide activity, especially if you're going on your own. The height of the water during high and low tides can vary up to a dozen feet, making fishing at sandbars potentially dangerous if you're not aware of how fickle the tides at St. Simons can be. This is why it's always a good idea to go fishing with a charter guide who knows his stuff.
Need to Know
If you plan on fishing with a guide, you do not need to worry about a fishing license because any licensed fishing charter has it included in their offer. It's a good idea to book well in advance if you plan on visiting during late summer when Tarpon season is in full swing.
On the other hand, if you'll be going at it alone, make sure you get a Georgia fishing license beforehand. This is necessary even if you'll be fishing exclusively from the pier.