Fishing on Santee Cooper, the connected waters of Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie, is widely considered some of the best freshwater angling in the Southeast. Famous for producing trophy-sized fish, this legendary South Carolina system draws everyone from weekend anglers to touring pros with a mix of big-lake open water, winding creek channels, expansive flats, and stump-filled shallows that create habitat for multiple gamefish species year-round.

Santee Cooper is especially renowned for its giant catfish, with both blue catfish and flathead catfish reaching impressive sizes and making the lakes a bucket-list destination for trophy hunters. The system is also a premier largemouth bass fishery, supported by vast shallow cover, submerged timber, vegetation, and classic structure like points, ledges, and old river channels. In addition, anglers travel here for striped bass and hybrid striped bass, which provide powerful fights and seasonal schooling action, particularly where current, depth changes, and bait concentrate.

What makes Santee Cooper stand out is its variety of fishable water. You can flip and cast in shallow, cover-rich areas in the morning, then shift to deeper structure and open-water patterns later in the day—often without running far. With multiple ramps, marinas, and easy access around both lakes, anglers can explore different sections based on wind, water level, clarity, and seasonal movement.

From spring spawning runs to summer ledge and deep-water bites, fall feeding frenzies, and winter patterns that still produce quality fish, Santee Cooper offers true four-season fishing. The lakes have a long history of producing standout catches, hosting major events, and earning their reputation as one of South Carolina’s top freshwater destinations for anyone chasing hard-fighting fish and unforgettable days on the water.