Fishing

The fishing opportunities available at Lake Murray make for a memorable day on the water. Anglers will experience excitement from both the lake's large trophy fish and smaller panfish. Some of the primary game fish species of Lake Murray include striped bass, crappie, bluegill, largemouth bass, white perch, catfish, redear sunfish, and redbreast sunfish.

Largemouth bass are a favorite among most freshwater fishing everywhere and Lake Murray is definitely no exception. To find largemouth, fishermen should search the waters near weed beds, drop offs, or under overhanging tree branches. In weed beds, anglers should target gaps or edges; this provides the perfect environment for largemouth bass to ambush prey. Drop offs also provide excellent habitats for largemouth bass due to the dense populations of smaller bait fish in these areas. Targeting the many coves in Lake Murray is a good strategy.  Productive areas include Buffalo Creek, Spring Creek and Rocky Creek.  There are areas of shallow water near the dam that serve as habitats for a large population of largemouth bass. This is a place commonly targeted by bass fishermen during tournaments. Regardless of where the largemouth is targeted, fishermen should use light tackle options such as imitation shad, spinnerbaits, crankbaits, or jigs. This species can grow beyond 14 pounds, so planning ahead with the proper rods, reels, and line will prove beneficial. The SC DNR has sunk a number of fish attractors in the lake - see map:

Striped bass is a species that offers plenty of excitement and challenges to the anglers who decide to target it. This species can best be targeted using trolling methods or surf fishing. When trolling, fishermen should equip a trolling rig to a boat and drive at speeds of 2 to 5 miles per hour. During the mornings and evenings, trolling at the higher speeds of this range is most effective. The contrary applies when trolling during the middle of the day or during extreme temperatures. Large spoons, spinnerbaits, and blue fish rigs are all excellent options when targeting striped bass.

There are numerous panfish available that provide an exciting fishermen adventure for both experienced anglers and casual weekend fishermen. Crappie, bluegill and many species of sunfish are among the most prevalent panfish in Lake Murray. In order to catch these species, fishermen should target the waters near piers, weed beds, and the shoreline. Light tackle such as jigs and topwater lures are great choices. Fly fishing is also an effective method of capture.  Great places to find panfish include the area near Dreher Island and all main lake points.

Facilities

Lake Murray offers several facilities and accommodations that will ensure that a trip is convenient and enjoyable. These include marinas, piers, tackle shops, boat landings, grocery stores, fueling stations, and lodging.

The Lake

Lake Murray is one of South Carolina's largest reservoirs. Its total area measures out to 78 square miles. It has a length of 41 miles and and a width of 14 miles. At its deepest point, Lake Murray is 200 feet.

Lake Murray is the ideal travel destination for fishermen looking for beautiful views and a high quality fishing experience.

Guide & Professional Angler Michael Murphy Whether you are just fishing for fun and wanting to catch fish, wanting to learn more about fish behavior and the science of fish, looking for preparation of an upcoming tournament, or to have an electronics education trip, your trip can be specialized to maximize your experience and increase your success on the water on not just Lake Murray, but any body of water you fish.  To fish with Michael Murphy visit: michaelmurphyfishing.com/guiding.php

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