September Fishing Forecast

newvisitfollyadmin2023-09-07T12:27:38-05:00

September Fishing Forecast

Charter fishing in Folly Beach fishing has been good as some slightly cooler weather has seen water temps drop by a few degrees. We fished just off the beach recently, and there were large schools of Mackerel and False Albacore mixed in with some big tackle-busting Jack Crevalle. This is no surprise to me as late summer and early fall are typically a great time of year to go fishing in the Lowcountry. Big Bull Redfish are piling into the inlets and Jetties, False Albacore and Spanish Mackerel are chasing baits a mile off the beach, and big sharks are lurking around the sandbars. Just inshore Flounder, Black Drum, Speckled Trout, and keeper Redfish are feeding in our tidal rivers and creeks on live shrimp, mud minnows, and all our favorite artificials by Z-Man.

Bait is abundant so a few quick throws of the cast net and we have full live wells. There is a feeding frenzy that begins in September and continues through the end of the year. Shorter days and the sudden influx of bait signals to every fish that it’s time to eat as much as they can before the water cools down. Fishing charters in Charleston and our fishing charters in Folly Beach fill up quickly this time of year. Let’s get you out there to enjoy it with us! Call, text, or book online. See you on deck!

Captain Kevin Blair

www.charlestonfishrodbendingcompany.com

https://www.instagram.com/captain_kevin_blair/?hl=en

https://www.facebook.com/charlestonfishrodbendingco?ref=hl

843-696-4231

To Book Captain Kevin Blair

Book Online

Learn More

Folly Beach Named One of the 14 Best Beach Towns in the South for Summer

American, Folly Fun, News, Seafood, Southern

newvisitfollyadmin2023-07-24T16:05:30-05:00

Folly Beach has been named one of the 14 Best Beach Towns in the South for Summer by Trips to Discover. The list features multiple southern beaches from Virginia to Florida. The perfect beach town, according to Trips to Discover, has to offer recreational activities, and mouthwatering cuisine, including plenty of fresh seafood.

Here’s why Trips to Discover thinks Folly Beach is special: “Located just 20 minutes outside of Charleston, Folly Beach offers a barefoot kind of vibe on a six-mile-long sandbar. Colonial-style homes and palm trees can be found throughout, along with plenty of tasty food and drink, including the Folly Beach Pier, popular for cocktails that can be enjoyed at the open-air bar. Live music is offered nightly at several restaurants here too. When you’re at the beach, enjoy everything from surfing to paddleboarding. From the magnificent Lighthouse Heritage Preserve with its driftwood-strewn sands, you’ll enjoy a fabulous view of Morris Island Lighthouse.”

You can read more about the 14 Best Beach Towns at tripstodiscover.com/beach-towns-south-summer/.

Looking to visit one of the Best Beach Towns in the South for Summer? Check out all of the best places to stay, eat and play at visitfolly.com.

Learn More View Project

Folly Beach World Ocean Day Litter Sweep

News

newvisitfollyadmin2023-08-17T13:40:56-05:00

Folly Beach World Ocean Day Litter Sweep

The World Ocean Day Coastal Cleanup on Folly Beach was a major success! This event was sponsored by the Global Eco Adventures along with numerous partners and organized by the Folly Association of Business Litter Committee. The purpose of this event was to create a better environment for our residents and visitors, as well as for our local wildlife that depends on a clean and safe environment that allows them to thrive.

It was a major success that brought in 162 volunteers to sweep our beach and our beautiful town. That day, a total of 14,008 pieces of litter debris were collected and we are thankful to the South Carolina Aquarium Conservation Team for entering the collection data into the Litter Free Digital Journal. This allows us to report litter collection stats to government agencies and to show the community the impact of these clean initiatives.

The focus of this event was to sweep not only our beaches but also our roadways. Cigarettes were the number one piece of litter removed, with the number two most common piece of trash being food wrappers. 80% of the trash collected on the roads was plastic debris, while on the beach, 82% was plastic debris.

Between the Toby Island Wide Beach Sweep on April 3, 2022, and the World Ocean Sweep on June 8, 2022, volunteers have retrieved a total of 25,253 items of debris mostly on our roadways, including the Beach Accesses, which would in turn have ended up in our waterways and eventually into our vast beautiful ocean.

We are thankful to everyone who took the time to participate in this event. This was incredibly beneficial to our beloved island and we hope for an even bigger turnout next year as we continue to see the benefits of events like this one in maintaining clean environments for both residents and wildlife of Folly.

Learn More

Warrior Surf Foundation’s 4th Annual Surfboard Auction

News

newvisitfollyadmin2020-07-23T11:22:50-05:00

Warrior Surf Foundation’s 4th Annual Surfboard Auction

Our friends at Warrior Surf Foundation have announced their 4th Annual Surfboard Auction! The Warrior Surf Foundation was founded on Folly Beach in 2015 with a mission to aid in the transition of life after service to veterans, active-duty service members, and their families through surfing. From now until August 22nd you can place bids on 10 surfboards that are up for auction, including two that have been signed by the musical phenomenon, Jimmy Buffet. Other items, such as locally made art and experiences are also up for auction! All bidding proceeds from this event will directly benefit the Warrior Surf Foundation and the services that it provides for those that have served our nation. Join us in participating in this incredible opportunity to support the Warrior Surf Foundation!

To view and place bids on all available auction items, visit warriorsurf.rallyup.com/surfboardauction and to catch a live look take part in the online live stream on August 19th at 5 pm. Click Here to read the original article.

Place Your Bid

Learn More

May Fishing Report

News

newvisitfollyadmin2019-11-07T14:37:24-05:00

May Fishing Report

Warm weather has arrived and with it comes a host of seasonal species like shark, ladyfish and bluefish. Our traditional targets, redfish and trout, are hungry as ever as bait fills our waters. Our fishery is teeming with life and opportunities for anglers are endless. You have more reasons now than ever to get fishing!
It’s time to make the most of live bait when fishing for redfish. Menhaden is a favorite choice whether fished live or as cut bait. We’ve caught some huge redfish by pitching chunks of menhaden under docks. You’ll need to use enough weight to hold your bait in place so it doesn’t drift and get snagged. I use pinch-on split shot that can be easily adjusted, just add or remove these weights as needed.

Now’s the time of year to start thinking about topwater trout action at first light. My favorite lure is a Heddon’s Super Spook Jr. in chartreuse and black while an easy fallback is their silver mullet color. Make sure to try a variety of retrieval speeds as you work these lures. When that trout hits, resist the temptation to lift the rod tip and reel the fish tight instead. It’s hard to beat those fantastic strikes!

Spanish mackerel are beginning to show up, especially in the harbor, and can be best found at first light. If you find schools of fish slashing across the surface, throw reflective casting jigs and reel them quickly through the school. Alternatively, if you know fish are present but not up top, try trolling Clark Spoons at different depths and different speeds. Remember to check your leader often as it only takes catching a few of these teethy fish to cut through it.

Per usual, sharks have returned to our waters with the warmer water temperatures. Just watch the shoreline and you’ll see bonnethead sharks slicing through the water as they seek out prey. These predators will eat most anything, but chunks of blue crab and live shrimp can be especially productive. Shark fishing is an easy way to get younger anglers involved as sharks are usually hungry and put up great fights.

See you on the water!

For over a decade, Capt. Geoff Bennett has operated Charleston Charter Fishing providing light tackle charters. Clients choose from a full menu of artificial and live bait fishing options with charters tailored to their desires. USCG licensed and insured, Capt. Bennett is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable charter to anglers of all skill levels and ages. For more information, call Capt. Bennett at 843-324-3332, visit his website at www.charlestoncharterfishing.com or email him at [email protected].

Learn More

Charleston’s Spoleto Festival

News

newvisitfollyadmin2019-11-07T14:38:29-05:00

Charleston’s Spoleto Festival

May 23 – June 9, 2019

Get your tickets today for a whirlwind of cultural exploration. From May 23 to June 9, 2019, Charleston will be wrapped up in Spoleto. Spoleto is based on a similar art festival held in Italy every year, and it is the perfect event to start your summer. Watch locals and visiting artists press through the binds of monotony to create truly meaningful work. Discover new passions and friends when you mix with festival goers and the beauty on display.

The best thing about Spoleto is the food you get to try in Charleston! With world renowned chefs, you might very well have the best meal of your life while visiting for Spoleto. Many restaurants pair with shows to offer guests discounts or special dishes available only during the festival. You can’t miss the incredible cuisine in Charleston with the unique mix of local Lowcountry flavors and inspiration from every continent! From fried food to clean juices, you can treat your body to whatever it needs in one of the best food capitals on the Eastern Seaboard.

The Spoleto Festival in downtown Charleston is located is a quick twenty minutes away from Folly beach so you can spend the morning on the beach and drive over for a day admiring the unique melange of art, music and dancing. It is far enough away to escape the crowds, but close enough to benefit from the rich culture and festival excitement. The entire Lowcountry lights up when Spoleto happens! Make Folly your beach getaway for the weekend of Spoleto. Avoid the festival hotel surges by relaxing just outside of the city and choose when you want to join the throng of art lovers in the city.

Try new things without breaking the bank! If you have never attended an art festival before, Spoleto Piccolo is very affordable. You will find that many events that are free. If you are not sure how you feel about bluegrass music or formal ballet performances, this is the perfect place to check them out! You can stop by for just a weekend or plan to visit for the full two weeks. You will have things to talk about with your family and friends for weeks to come when you stumble into the jazz performance in the historic Cistern surrounded by Live Oak trees and the city’s twilight glow.

The festival is perfect for all art lovers regardless of experience or preferences. The people who convalesce at this event radiate inspiration. You can have conversations about character development, the way that colors fit together or the blissful moment when the orchestra reaches a chord of resolution. There are many shows featuring every genre of music, theater or dance that you can think of! All are welcome to experience inspiration at Spoleto, and it is the best place to be at the start of summer.

To learn more and see the schedule, click here.

Learn More

May Fishing Forecast

News

newvisitfollyadmin2019-11-07T14:57:42-05:00

May Fishing Forecast

Folly Beach fishing charters have been getting better and better as the fish are settling into a more predictable May pattern. Warm water and plenty of natural bait has all our finned favorites feeding on a regular basis. Deep Sea fishing charters have been catching Mahi Mahi, King Mackerel, Amberjack and a variety of Snapper and other bottom fish on the offshore reefs and trolling spots in 70 to 100 ft of water. Nearshore fishing charters are finding fish 3 to 5 miles from shore and have been catching big Bull Redfish, Black Drum, Sheepshead, Spanish Mackerel and Sharks just to name a few. Inshore fishing charters have been taking advantage of the shallow water Speckled Trout, Redfish and Black Drum action. Live Shrimp, Menhaden and Mud Minnows are the bait of choice inshore however the early morning top-water bite has been fantastic. Put on a Zara Spook and target shallow water points, oyster beds and grass lines. You will know within a few casts if you are around Trout and Redfish. I typically draw the most strikes from sunrise plus 30-40 minutes. If you sense fish are there and they don’t want your top-water bait, try running a Z-Man paddler Z just under the surface on a Gamakatsu # 5 offset wide gap hook. If that doesn’t work or you prefer live bait nothing is more fun than casting a live shrimp or mullet on a free line into the strike zone. You can tell you are about to get hit when your bait starts to swim nervously or you see the wake of an approaching fish close in on your line. If you need to gear up run to your local tackle shop and they will help you get what you need. If you want to get out and do some fishing in Charleston you can book your trip quickly and securely online right now. We are looking forward to fishing with you!

Captain Kevin Blair
Charleston Fish Rod Bending Co
Like us on Facebook!

Learn More

The Most Instagram-Worthy Spots on Folly Beach

News

newvisitfollyadmin2019-11-07T14:57:20-05:00

The Most Instagram-Worthy Spots on Folly Beach

A beautiful sunset paints the sky with colors of fire as you walk towards the beautiful blue water of the Atlantic Ocean, glancing back at your friend with a candid laugh as she focuses the lens of her cellphone camera on this picture-perfect Instagram. Folly Beach is an Instagrammer’s Utopia with its miles of beaches, renowned fishing pier, colorful scenery, and historical roots. Whether you’re seeking the picture perfect candid or breath-taking view to share with your followers, here are the most Instagram-worthy photo opts in Folly Beach, South Carolina.

The Beaches of Folly Beach

The beautiful beaches of Folly Beach make a great backdrop for any photo. The majestic waves of the Atlantic Ocean crashing on the shore of the beach provide a serene backdrop for any photo. Whether you are snapping pictures during the day while the sun is shining on you or during a breath-taking sunset, the beaches in Folly are the best place for beautiful photos.

Folly Pier

If you’re fishing for a good picture, the Folly Pier is a place for that. As the second longest pier on the east coast, the Folly Beach Pier offers remarkable views as you stretch 1,045 feet over the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you are dining on the pier, strolling down the wooden planks, fishing, or all the above, the Pier is a beautiful stop to get a great picture that will rise above all the rest!

Morris Island Lighthouse

Standing over 100 years old, the Morris Island Lighthouse is the third lighthouse in its current location off the coast of Folly Beach. The peeping lighthouse is a great feature to add to any of your beach pictures when visiting Folly Beach. It is the quintessential beach accessory that will light up any photo-opt!

Sunset Cay Marina

The Folly Beach Marina is a must on the list of Folly Beach Instagram-worthy list! The beautiful marina is home to unbeatable views filled decorated with sailboats and palm trees met with a cool breeze. The Marina shines best during the golden hour when the skyline of Folly Beach matches the color of the brightest fires. Enjoy a drink while taking in the view and snapping pictures.

Chico Feo

This outdoor Taco joint has food that hits the spot and a location that super hot. The outdoor seating allows guests to enjoy the beautiful weather of Folly Beach while indulging in delicious food and refreshing drinks. The picnic tables sit under patio lights surrounded by trees with the bright blue and wooden building in the background. Chico Feo is a delicious stop for your taste buds and a tasty way to mix up the look of your Instagram feed!

Folly Beach is a memorable stop for visitors and a nice stay-cation for locals filled with endless opportunities for beautiful views and fabulous pictures. Make sure to include these stops during your next visit to Folly for the most Instagram-worthy pictures!

Learn More

Five Ways to Celebrate Earth Day on Folly Beach

News

newvisitfollyadmin2019-11-07T14:59:15-05:00

Five Ways to Celebrate Earth Day on Folly Beach

Get your green on for Earth Day 2019 on Monday, April 22! Going green means helping keep our world healthy for our children and our grandchildren. Every day, we can reduce-reuse-recycle, and these tips can help bring sustainability to the beach.

1 – #trashtag challenge

This Earth Day, rise to the #trashtag challenge. We are so lucky that our community treats the beach with kindness, but there is always room to make our sanctuary even nicer. Gather a couple friends to keep our beaches beautiful, and make sure to post a before and after photo on social media to inspire others! If you want to take the next step, use recycled trash bags or reusable bins for the cleanup.

2 – Bring a reusable water bottle!

You can make a difference when you reduce your carbon footprint by drinking from a reusable water bottle on Earth Day this year. Ocean Conservancy Inc. found that about eight million tons of new plastics pollute our oceans every year. Folly Beach reusable water bottles are available at our many beach souvenir shops!

3 – Save the earth and your gas bill

Get some sunshine this Earth Day and try biking to the beach instead of driving. Folly Beach is only 11 miles from the heart of Charleston which takes less than an hour by bike. You might even save yourself some time in traffic! Be good to your body and the earth, but don’t forget to wear your helmet!

4 – Respect the dunes

Sand dunes are important for the prevention of beach erosion, and we use sea oats and other native grasses to keep them in place. Dunes also prevent flooding on Folly Beach during king tides and hurricanes. Help us keep the sand and water where they need to be by leaving grasses alone, using walkovers, and only traveling on the flat area of the beaches. You can brush up on other Folly Beach guidelines here.

5 – Use sustainable beach products

We all know that sunscreen is a must for beach trips, and there are many sustainable options available. Look for products that are waste free, cruelty free, and safe for the environment. Instead of jumping for new plastic toys, re-purpose old containers for building sandcastles. You can also make the choice to purchase cloth beach bags and leather sandals instead of plastic.

There are so many options to get going as a sustainable beach-goer, and we hope that these tips help you take action on Earth Day this year!

Learn More

April Fishing Report

News

newvisitfollyadmin2019-11-07T14:59:59-05:00

April Fishing Report

Wonderful sunny weather has continued day after day making for awesome fishing conditions. With all this warm weather, it’s no surprise that our fishery is 4-6 weeks ahead of schedule. The water is teeming with bait and anglers can expect April to be a fantastic month of fishing.

The large schools of redfish found throughout the winter are breaking up as these fish become more active. Anglers should think about using artificial plastic lures that mimic baitfish. One good choice would be “jerk shad” lures that have become very popular and come in a variety of colors. I’ve been finding that hues of silver and blue have been working best and produce even when water clarity is poor. These lures work best rigged on a size 3/0 flutter hook.

The trout bite should really begin in earnest this April. With water temperatures so warm, it’s hard to believe they won’t become aggressive feeders before too long. The preferred rig of live bait under a popping cork is hard to beat. Live shrimp is now available and will give you another option than mud minnows. It’s a good idea to start carrying your cast net and see if you can find some finger mullet. Finger mullet under a cork is just deadly.

Flounder, perhaps our tastiest fish, are now present and eating. We’ve been catching them mostly when fishing with mud minnows on the bottom or mud minnows under popping corks. You’ll need to focus on structure when targeting flounder. Docks and pilings are good places to prospect. Flounder will hug the bottom in hopes of ambushing their prey, so you’ll need to keep that bait down and in their strike zone.

See you on the water!

For a decade, Capt. Geoff Bennett has operated Charleston Charter Fishing providing light tackle charters. Clients choose from a full menu of artificial and live bait fishing options with charters tailored to their desires. USCG licensed and insured, Capt. Bennett is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable charter to anglers of all skill levels and ages. For more information, call Capt. Bennett at 843-324-3332, visit his website at www.charlestoncharterfishing.com or email him at [email protected].

Learn More