Fishing in Savannah, GA 2024

Savannah, Georgia, offers abundant fishing opportunities that make it a year-round destination for anglers. From saltwater fishing along its scenic coastlines to freshwater options in the city’s rivers and lakes, Savannah provides a variety of habitats and species. Enthusiasts can explore scenic waterways, take in the beauty of the coastal landscape, and chase both common and prized fish. With diverse options available for both beginners and experienced fishers, Savannah’s fishing scene is as rich as its culture.

Saltwater Fishing in Savannah

For saltwater anglers, Savannah’s coastal region is a top destination. Tybee Island, just 20 minutes from downtown Savannah, is a hotspot for fishing off piers or from the shore. In addition to Tybee, Wassaw Island, and Ossabaw Island are other excellent fishing destinations for those who prefer a quieter experience and the opportunity to fish from boats or kayaks. These islands have marshes, channels, and backwater creeks that are ideal for targeting fish such as redfish, spotted seatrout, and flounder. Pier fishing is popular too, allowing anglers without boats to cast right from the coast and enjoy a relaxed day.

Best Time for Saltwater Fishing

While you can fish in Savannah year-round, certain seasons offer the best saltwater fishing opportunities. Fall (September-November) and spring months (March-May) is a prime time for redfish, which thrive in Savannah’s inshore waters during these seasons, while summer sees an increase in spotted seatrout and flounder activity. Winter fishing is best for sheepshead and black drum, which tend to gather around the piers and structures in the colder months. Each season brings different species, so fishing year-round in Savannah is a rewarding adventure.

Spotted seatrout, abundant from spring to fall, is another favorite for inshore fishing. Flounder can be found hiding near sandy bottoms in the summer and are popular for their excellent table quality. Sheepshead, known for their human-like teeth and challenging fight, can be caught around pier pilings and rocky structures in winter. Offshore fishing around Savannah also yields impressive catches, including Spanish mackerel, kingfish, and occasionally even tarpon during warmer months.

Redfish (September-November, March-May)

Redfish, or red drum, is one of the most sought-after species for anglers in Savannah’s saltwater marshes. Known for their signature bronze color and tail spots, redfish are an excellent target in Savannah’s tidal waters from early spring through late fall. They tend to school up in large numbers and are commonly found in shallow water near oyster beds, sandbars, and grass flats. Redfish put up a strong fight, making them a thrill to catch for both beginners and experienced anglers. Tybee Island and Wassaw Sound are top spots for finding them, and many anglers opt for guided fishing charters to reach the best locations.

Freshwater Fishing in Savannah

Freshwater fishing opportunities are no less enticing. The Savannah River is the area’s top freshwater fishing destination, with largemouth bass, striped bass, and catfish populating its waters. Smaller rivers and creeks, such as the Ogeechee River and the Little Ogeechee, are also ideal for freshwater fishing and provide a peaceful, scenic experience. Lake Mayer Park, a popular spot within the city limits, offers a family-friendly freshwater fishing location where anglers can catch bream, crappie, and bluegill right from the shore or from small boats.

Best Time for Freshwater Fishing

Freshwater fishing in Savannah can be enjoyed all year, but each season has its advantages. Spring and early summer are the best seasons for bass fishing in the Savannah River, as fish move closer to the surface during warmer weather. Fall is ideal for striped bass, particularly as the river temperatures cool down, making them more active. Catfish, however, remain active through much of the year and are commonly caught even during winter.

Savannah’s fishing scene offers incredible experiences year-round, but fall and spring stand out as the best seasons to cast a line. During these times, redfish, spotted seatrout, and flounder are most active in the saltwater marshes, while largemouth and striped bass thrive in the Savannah River. The moderate temperatures and abundant fish populations make fall and spring prime times for exploring both the coastal waters and inland rivers. From the beauty of Tybee Island’s shores to the tranquility of the Savannah River, fishing in Savannah during these peak seasons provides a rewarding adventure in a truly picturesque setting.