Catch and Release

Capt. Jimmy Klavohn Charters, Fishing the Charleston, SC Waters

FAQ Answer Page

Q: Why Catch and Release?

A: Some varieties of fish are plentiful and make for great eating while others are not so tasty. Also, there are varieties that are great fighters and fun to catch, but are not plentiful enough to keep and are always released. Fishing is a great sport so catch and release for others to enjoy, unless you plan to go fishing for your dinner.

Red Drum (Spot-Tail Bass)

These great fighters are the most sough after inshore game fish, but also are diminishing in supply. They are identified by their coppery reddish color and one or more large dark spots on their tails. Their backs are silvery in color. These fish are found in the surf where they can weigh up to 40 lbs. Inshore, they range from 1 to 5 pounds. These fish should be released.

Tarpon

Tarpon are more of a rare fish and are known for their large size and fighting strength. They are mostly found inshore and move into shallow bays in the late summer and early fall. They are silver in color and can weigh from 30-100 pounds. Catch and release these fish since they are rare and are not good for eating.

Flounder

Flounder are a delicious food fish. They are highly sought after for their taste and food value. They are flat with both eyes on one side. Brownish in color, they are found on sandy bottoms where they can bury themselves and hide in the sand. They can range in size from 1 to 15 pounds.

Sheepshead

Sheepshead are usually found along pier pilings and near oyster beds and rock jetties. They are identified by their distinctive vertical stripes, alternating in color between black and silver. Their sizes can range from 2 to 12 pounds. They are good fighting fish and sought for their food value.

Bluefish

Bluefish are quick in the water and are found in the surf zones where they search for food. They are silvery blue in color and are powerful fighters.

Croakers and Spots

These fish, along with Spots, are the most common and are found in the surf zones. Small in size, they are popular for their abundance and tasty food value. They are silver in color and Spots have a black spot behind their gills.

Ladyfish

Ladyfish are related to Tarpon, but smaller in size since they normally range from 2-3 pounds. They are excellent fighters and travel in schools during the summer months. They are light iridescent green on their backs and silver on their bellies. Always release since these fish are not good for eating.

Sea Trout

Sea Trout are abundant and a very good food value. Also known as Speckled Trout, they travel the rivers and inlets in their search for food. They are usually blue-gray on the back and silvery on their bellies with dark spots. They range from 1 to 5 pounds.