Fishing Frenzy

Santee Cooper is a very popular destination for anglers in South Carolina focused around Lakes Marion and Moultrie. These two lakes were established during the late 1930s and early 1940s as part of a state hydroelectric infrastructure scheme. Anglers on the lakes usually target stripers, catfish, crappie, bass and bream. Santee Cooper fishing guides specialize by species and can be helpful in providing visiting anglers with good local knowledge and tips.

The region covers 5 counties; Clarendon, Sumter, Calhoun, Berkeley and Orangeburg. The name is based on the river systems originally connected by the hydro scheme. The name also is used for the state water and electricity utility.

Lake Marion is the biggest of the two lakes with an area of about 111,000 acres. By comparison, Lake Moultrie has a surface area of about 60,000 acres. The two lakes are connected by a canal built to allow water diversion.

The lakes have held a number of world angling records. These include the largest Channel Catfish (58 lbs), the largest Striped Bass (55 lbs) and the largest Arkansas Blue (109.4 lbs).

The lakes contain a number of varied habitats including shallow swamps, blackwater ponds and vast open water areas with a multitude of natural underwater structures that encourage marine life. For example, when it was first established, Lake Marion was not completely cleared. As a result, it contains thousands of submerged stumps, standing exposed dead tree trunks and masses of standing trees that are still growing.

In conclusion, the lakes offer year round angling since they do not ice over in winter. When selecting a santee cooper fishing guides, it is important to check that he or she is registered with the US coast guard. This registration system is designed to protect consumers. Also, all anglers, including non-residents, are required to hold a valid angling license.