Catch Trout, Bass, and More Near Pumpkintown
From the trout streams of the Chattooga River to the deep waters of Lake Jocassee and the bass-filled coves of Lake Keowee and Lake Hartwell, the mountains around Pumpkintown offer some of the best fishing opportunities in South Carolina.
Whether you are casting for trout in a mountain stream or chasing trophy bass on one of the Upstate’s famous lakes, knowing where to fish, when to fish, and what regulations apply can dramatically improve your chances of success.
Best Places to Fish Near Pumpkintown
Chattooga River
The Chattooga River is one of the Southeast’s premier trout fisheries and was designated a Wild and Scenic River in 1974.
Species:
- Rainbow Trout
- Brown Trout
- Brook Trout
- Redeye Bass
Best For:
- Fly fishing
- Wading
- Scenic fishing trips
Good Access:
- Burrell’s Ford
- Earl’s Ford
- Highway 28 Bridge
Chauga River
The Chauga is often overlooked but offers excellent trout and bass fishing.
Species:
- Rainbow Trout
- Brown Trout
- Redeye Bass
Best For:
- Less crowded fishing
- Fly fishing
- Summer mountain trips
Lake Jocassee
Many anglers consider Jocassee the crown jewel of South Carolina fishing.
Species:
- Trout
- Smallmouth Bass
- Spotted Bass
- Redeye Bass
Notable Record Fish:
- 17.25-pound Brown Trout
- 11.5-pound Rainbow Trout
Best For:
- Boat fishing
- Deep-water fishing
- Trophy fish
Lake Keowee
Keowee is known for clear water and excellent bass fishing.
Species:
- Largemouth Bass
- Smallmouth Bass
- Spotted Bass
- Catfish
Best For:
- Year-round fishing
- Kayaks
- Family fishing trips
Lake Hartwell
One of the Southeast’s most famous bass fisheries.
Species:
- Largemouth Bass
- Hybrid Bass
- Striped Bass
- Catfish
- Crappie
Best For:
- Tournament fishing
- Bank fishing
- Family outings
Best Times to Fish
The solunar charts included in the guide suggest that fish activity often increases during major and minor feeding periods associated with moon positions.
General rules:
Early Morning
- One hour before sunrise until 9 a.m.
- Excellent for bass and trout
Evening
- Two hours before sunset
- Especially productive during summer
Overcast Days
Fish often remain active much longer throughout the day.
After Rain
Mountain streams often become highly productive as insects wash into the water.
Seasonal Fishing Guide
Spring
Best Overall Season
Fish are feeding heavily after winter.
Target:
- Bass
- Trout
- Crappie
Summer
Fish early and late.
Target:
- Deep-water bass
- Mountain trout streams
Fall
Many experienced anglers consider fall the best fishing season.
Target:
- Trout
- Bass
- Striped Bass
Winter
Fewer anglers mean less pressure.
Target:
- Trout
- Deep-water bass
South Carolina Fishing Regulations
Before heading out:
✓ South Carolina fishing license required
✓ Trout fishing requires compliance with special trout regulations
✓ Some tributaries cross into North Carolina and may require a North Carolina license
✓ Delayed Harvest sections on the Chattooga and Chauga operate from November 1 through May 14
Always check current regulations before fishing because rules and stocking schedules can change.
Fishing Safety in the Mountains
Many first-time visitors underestimate how remote parts of the Upstate can be.
Before you go:
- Tell someone where you are fishing
- Download maps beforehand
- Expect little or no cell service on parts of the Chattooga and Chauga
- Bring extra water
- Wear proper footwear for river crossings
- Watch for sudden rises in water levels after heavy rain
Why the Upstate Is a Fishing Paradise
Within an hour of Pumpkintown, anglers can fish wild mountain streams, remote trout rivers, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and one of the nation’s premier bass fisheries. Few places in the Southeast offer such a variety of fishing opportunities in such a small area.
Whether you are chasing brook trout in a mountain stream or trophy bass on Lake Hartwell, the Upstate mountains provide fishing opportunities for every skill level.
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