--- title: "Greenwood Fishing" url: https://www.heregreenwood.com/fishing-greenwood-sc/ date: 2026-06-23T12:58:38+00:00 modified: 2026-06-23T13:10:03+00:00 author: "" site: "HERE Greenwood" attribution: "HERE Greenwood" --- # Greenwood Fishing *Source: [HERE Greenwood](https://www.heregreenwood.com/fishing-greenwood-sc/) β€” June 23, 2026 by * HERE Greenwood # Greenwood Fishing Report Live conditions, species status, solunar ratings, water body profiles, SCDNR regulations, and community fishing coverage for Greenwood lakes and rivers. Bass: Active Crappie: Active Catfish: Hot 7 Waters Profiled **7** Waters Profiled **Live** Conditions **Solunar** Rating **2026** Season First Look β€’ Fishing Conditions πŸŒ” Waxing Gibbous Illumination: 60% Air Temp 84Β°F Est. Water 89Β°F Wind 11 mph Pressure 1015 as of 7:40 PM ET Fair β€” bright nights mean fish feed overnight. Try early morning before they drop deep. 78 GOOD Good fishing. Work structure and cover β€” fish are biting. Greenwood β€’ Lakelands SC Your Local *Fishing Resource* HERE Greenwood is your local source for fishing reports, conditions, and SCDNR regulations across Greenwood. Use the waters list to find lakes, rivers, and reservoirs near you, the regulations section for current limits, and the guides directory to book a trip. Current Conditions β€’ Greenwood Waters Species *Status* Largemouth Bass ACTIVE Summer pattern β€” fish deep structure early and late. Frog fishing on lily pads productive at dawn. **Top Bait**Finesse Jig, Drop Shot **Depth**15-25 ft midday Smallmouth Bass HOT Prime smallmouth season on area rivers. Rocky shoals hold feeding fish. **Top Bait**Tube Jig, Crawfish Pattern, Ned Rig **Depth**Shoal tail-outs, 3-12 ft Crappie ACTIVE Pre-spawn or fall pattern. Crappie suspending over deeper structure. **Top Bait**Small Tube Jig, Live Minnow, Slip Float **Depth**12-20 ft brush Catfish HOT Catfish are highly active in warm water. Night fishing from bank is excellent β€” cut shad and chicken liver. **Top Bait**Cut Shad, Chicken Liver, Prepared Stink Bait **Depth**Channel edges, 10-30 ft Bluegill / Bream HOT Bluegill on the bed β€” largest fish of the year on spawning colonies in 1-4 ft gravel flats. Cricket fishing is magic. **Top Bait**Cricket, Worm, Small Jig (1/32 oz) **Depth**Spawning: 1-4 ft. Non-spawn: dock edges 4-10 ft Trout SLOW No summer trout stocking. Trout season paused β€” check for next stocking dates. **Top Bait**PowerBait, Night Crawler, Inline Spinner **Depth**Stocked areas β€” designated lakes and streams Species status is based on seasonal patterns and current conditions for Greenwood waters. Always verify SCDNR regulations for creel limits, size minimums, and any current advisories before heading out. [Report a Bite Update](/submit-a-tip/?topic=report-a-bite-update) Fishing Report Partners [Dick's Sporting Goods](https://www.dickssportinggoods.com/c/fishing) [Bass Pro Shops](https://www.basspro.com) [REI Co-op](https://www.rei.com/c/fishing) [Academy Sports](https://www.academy.com/fishing) First Look Weather & *Fishing Conditions* 84F Partly Cloudy Feels like 87Β°F as of 7:40 PM ET Wind 11 mph WSW Humidity 58% Pressure 1015 hPa Est. Water Temp 89Β°F Moon Waxing Gibbous Sunrise / Sunset 10:16 am / 12:45 am Location Greenwood, SC On-the-Water Tips - Falling barometric pressure activates feeding. Fish are on the move β€” work moving baits and cover water quickly. Solunar Index Fishing *Conditions Dashboard* Air Temperature 84Β°F Warm β€” Fish Deep Wind Speed 11 mph Light Breeze Barometric Pressure 1015 hPa Falling β€” Feeding! Moon Phase πŸŒ” Good GOOD Good fishing. Work structure and cover β€” fish are biting. Extended Outlook 5-Day Fishing *Forecast* TODAY Sunny 88Β° / 65Β° 13 mph wind β€’ 0% humidity FAIR WED Sunny 88Β° / 66Β° 4 mph wind β€’ 0% humidity GOOD THU Mostly Sunny 90Β° / 72Β° 3 mph wind β€’ 0% humidity GOOD FRI Sunny then Slight Chance Showers And Thunderstorms 93Β° / 72Β° 6 mph wind β€’ 0% humidity SLOW SAT Sunny 94Β° / 74Β° 9 mph wind β€’ 0% humidity FAIR Lakes & Rivers Water Body *Profiles* 7 fishing waters within Greenwood β€” with species, access, tips, and restrictions. Lake Greenwood 11,400 acres Public reservoir (Saluda River impoundment) Greenwood, Laurens, and Newberry counties β€” access via Lake Greenwood State Park, 302 State Park Rd, Ninety Six, SC 29666 Largemouth Bass Black Crappie Striped Bass Channel Catfish Flathead Catfish Bluegill Redear Sunfish White Bass White Perch Chain Pickerel Spotted Bass Lake Greenwood is the crown-jewel fishery of the Lakelands region β€” an 11,400-acre Saluda River impoundment stretching 26 miles with 212 miles of shoreline. Owned by Greenwood County and managed in partnership with SCDNR, the reservoir supports one of the top black crappie fisheries in the South Carolina Upstate, with crappie accounting for roughly 66 percent of the total biomass harvested by recreational anglers. SCDNR surveys consistently show a healthy largemouth and spotted bass population with above-average weights. SCDNR stocks striped bass annually, adding a bonus trophy fishery that peaks in winter and early spring. The lake averages 22 feet deep with a maximum of 69 feet, providing thermal structure that concentrates fish year-round. Five public boat ramps: Lake Greenwood State Park (concrete, two lanes), Highway 34 Duke Energy ramp (concrete), Greenwood Shores subdivision ramp (Ninety Six), Souls Harbor ramp (Hodges), and Laurens Shrine Club ramp (Waterloo). Fishing pier at Lake Greenwood State Park. SC freshwater fishing license required for anglers 16 and older. Licenses available at dnr.sc.gov or local license agents. Angler Tip Crappie are the dominant draw β€” dip small jigs (1/32 to 1/16 oz) vertically under boat docks May through July, working sunny sides in cold water and shady sides once water warms above 70 Β°F. For bass, target topwater frogs around sea walls and dock lanes at first light in summer. Striped bass suspend over deep main-lake structure in December through February β€” down-line live herring below 20 feet. Largemouth bass: 14-inch minimum size limit. Striped bass/hybrids in Lake Greenwood: statewide 10-fish daily limit applies. Jug fishing is legal in Lake Greenwood (permit required for 3–50 jugs; name and SCDNR customer ID must be marked on each jug). Jug fishing hours: jugs must be removed before one hour after official sunrise and not replaced prior to one hour before official sunset. [Field Guide](https://www.dnr.sc.gov/lakes/greenwood/fishing.html) Saluda River β€” Lake Greenwood Tailrace Approx. 25 river miles (Lake Greenwood Dam to Lake Murray backwaters) Public river (tailrace / moving water) Greenwood and Newberry counties β€” primary access at SC Hwy 34 bridge ramp below Lake Greenwood Dam, near Chappells, SC Striped Bass Largemouth Bass Smallmouth Bass Redbreast Sunfish Bluegill Channel Catfish Blue Catfish Spotted Sucker The middle reach of the Saluda River β€” all waters from the Lake Greenwood Dam downstream to the Lake Murray backwaters β€” is a scenic shoal-and-pool river system offering year-round angling for bass, sunfish, and catfish, plus a seasonal striped bass fishery that rivals the lake itself. Cold water releases from the Lake Greenwood Dam keep the upper tailrace productive for both warmwater and transitional species. In spring, striped bass migrate upstream from Lake Murray, stacking below shoals in the Chappells and Prosperity areas. Redbreast sunfish are prolific in rocky shoal sections; channel and blue catfish hold in deeper pools below the major rapids. Canoe and kayak launch at SC Hwy 34 bridge on the Newberry County side (easier carry) and paved path access on the Greenwood County side. Additional access at several SCDNR fishing easements along SC 34 corridor. No motorized ramp within the immediate tailrace; small john boats can be trailered to Hwy 34 and floated downstream. SC freshwater fishing license required. Angler Tip Wade-fishing redbreast sunfish with small spinners or wet flies is exceptional in late spring (April–June) along the rocky shoals just below the dam. For striped bass in spring, anchor live bream or herring in the slow pools at the bend below the Hwy 34 bridge β€” peak window is late March through May before summer season restrictions apply. Saluda River Middle Reach (Lake Greenwood Dam to Lake Murray): striped bass/hybrids β€” Oct. 1–May 31: 21-inch minimum, 5-fish daily limit; June 1–Sept. 30: no size limit, 5-fish daily limit. Standard SC freshwater license required. No special permits for rod-and-reel fishing. [Field Guide](https://www.dnr.sc.gov/lakes/greenwood/regs.html) Lake Greenwood State Park Fishing Pier Access to 11,400-acre Lake Greenwood State park fishing pier (public) Lake Greenwood State Park, 302 State Park Rd, Ninety Six, SC 29666 (southern shoreline of Lake Greenwood, Greenwood County) Largemouth Bass Black Crappie Bluegill Redear Sunfish Channel Catfish White Perch The fishing pier at Lake Greenwood State Park provides shore-bound and mobility-impaired anglers direct access to the productive shallows on Lake Greenwood's southern basin. The pier extends over the water adjacent to the main boat launch area and is one of the few lighted public structures on the lake. SCDNR operates a Fishing Tackle Loaner Program at the park β€” rods, reels, and basic tackle are available for free loan to visitors, making this an ideal spot for families and first-time anglers. The surrounding park cove holds consistent bream and crappie around submerged structure year-round. State park entry fee applies (South Carolina State Parks). Pier is open during park hours, typically 7 AM to dusk (call ahead for seasonal variation: 864-543-3535). Parking in the main boat launch lot. SC freshwater fishing license required for anglers 16 and older. Tackle Loaner Program rods available at the park office at no charge. Angler Tip Fish the shaded dock structure 20–30 feet from the pier's end from late February through April for spawning crappie using small jigs or a live minnow under a small float. Summer bream fishing with crickets off the pier is excellent in the mornings before 10 AM. At dusk in summer, catfish move shallow along the riprap around the boat ramp β€” chicken liver or cut shad fished on the bottom produces well. Standard SC freshwater license required (16+). Park entry fee required. All state freshwater regulations apply, including Lake Greenwood's 14-inch largemouth bass minimum. [Field Guide](https://southcarolinaparks.com/lake-greenwood) Star Fort Pond (SCDNR State Lake) 22–27 acres SCDNR state lake (managed public fishing) Near Ninety Six, Greenwood County, SC β€” access via Golf Course Road near SC 34 Largemouth Bass Bluegill Redear Sunfish (Shellcracker) Channel Catfish Star Fort Pond is a SCDNR-managed state lake in Greenwood County, located adjacent to the historic Ninety Six National Historic Site. The 22–27-acre pond receives regular SCDNR management and offers quality bass, bream, and catfish fishing in a quiet woodland setting. A fishing pier provides shore access and the pond is handicap-accessible. Because it is electric-motor-only and open only on designated days, it receives light pressure and maintains above-average fish size relative to its acreage. The surrounding longleaf pine setting and proximity to the Revolutionary War-era Star Fort earthworks make this a uniquely scenic fishing destination. Open Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, April 1 through November 1, from one-half hour before official sunrise to one-half hour after official sunset. Fishing pier on site, handicap accessible. Electric motor or paddle craft only β€” no gas motors. SC freshwater fishing license required. No fee for SCDNR state lake access. Angler Tip Because the pond is closed most of the week, fish are less pressured than at most public waters. Fish soft plastic worms slowly along the base of the fishing pier pilings early on Saturday mornings for largemouth bass over 14 inches. Shellcracker (redear sunfish) hit crickets and red worms best in May and early June during the spawn. Open Wed., Fri., and Sat. only, April 1–Nov. 1. Electric motor/paddle only. Daily creel limits: 3 largemouth bass (12-inch minimum), 3 catfish, 20 bream. SC freshwater fishing license required. [Field Guide](https://www.dnr.sc.gov/lakes/state/index.html) Lake Secession 1,450 acres Public reservoir (City of Abbeville β€” adjacent Abbeville County) Abbeville County, SC β€” Highway 184 boat ramp off Antreville Highway, near Iva, SC (approx. 20 miles from downtown Greenwood) Black Crappie Largemouth Bass Bluegill Redear Sunfish Channel Catfish White Bass Striped Bass Lake Secession is a 1,450-acre reservoir in Abbeville County owned by the City of Abbeville, and it sits just 20 miles from downtown Greenwood. The lake is locally acclaimed as one of the finest black crappie fisheries in South Carolina's Upstate region β€” crappie numbers and average size routinely surpass those on much larger lakes in the region. The lake also offers a rare spring white bass fishery in the headwaters when fish stack up to spawn in the upper tributaries. SCDNR maintains quality bass and bream populations, and jug fishing for catfish is legal here under permit. Six miles of shoreline and two public boat ramps make the lake easily accessible. Highway 184 boat ramp (two lanes, paved) near the northern end of the lake, off Antreville Highway at the lake bridge. Lake Secession Dam bank/pier access off Old Dam Road (Lowndesville area). No motor restrictions. SC freshwater fishing license required. No fees at public ramps. Angler Tip Crappie numbers are exceptional from mid-February through April along the lake's submerged timber and dock structure in the 8–14-foot range. Use small tube jigs or live minnows. For white bass, fish the upper lake creeks in early March when water temps climb to the mid-50s. Summer catfishing with limb lines or jug gear is productive overnight in the lake's deeper coves. Largemouth bass: 14-inch minimum size limit (same as Lake Greenwood β€” listed lakes exception). Jug fishing is legal at Lake Secession (permit required for 3–50 jugs; licensee's name and address must be marked on each jug). Standard statewide freshwater creel limits apply. SC freshwater fishing license required. [Field Guide](https://www.dnr.sc.gov/lakes/secession/regs.html) Long Cane Creek / Sumter National Forest (Long Cane District) Approx. 120,000 acres (Long Cane Ranger District, portions in Greenwood and Abbeville counties) National Forest streams and backwater fishing (USFS / SCDNR WMA) Long Cane Ranger District, Sumter National Forest β€” Greenwood, Abbeville, McCormick, and Edgefield counties. Trailhead/boat access from Long Cane Boat Ramp off SC 28 and Highway 28 Boat Ramp (Clark Hill / Lake Russell backwaters). District office: 810 Buncombe St, Edgefield, SC 29824. Largemouth Bass Redbreast Sunfish Bluegill Channel Catfish Spotted Bass Chain Pickerel Long Cane Creek and the associated stream network in Sumter National Forest's Long Cane Ranger District provide miles of productive warmwater fishing through Piedmont hardwood and mixed-pine forest. Long Cane Creek drains into the Clark Hill (Lake Thurmond) and Lake Russell backwaters, and the Long Cane and Highway 28 Boat Ramps offer access to the secluded creek arms of those impoundments β€” widely regarded as some of the finest bass and sunfish backwater fishing in the region. Lick Fork Lake, a 12-acre managed impoundment within the Long Cane District (Edgefield County), has an accessible fishing pier and non-motorized boat launch. The entire Long Cane District is enrolled in the SCDNR WMA program for public hunting and fishing. Long Cane Boat Ramp and Highway 28 Boat Ramp provide paved two-lane launches into the Clark Hill backwaters at the western edge of the Long Cane District. Lick Fork Lake Recreation Area (Edgefield County, Long Cane District) has a fishing pier and non-motorized boat ramp. SC freshwater fishing license required. No US Forest Service permit required for fishing. Fell Hunt Camp parking: $3/day fee. Angler Tip Redbreast sunfish are exceptional in Long Cane Creek's rocky shoal sections from April through June β€” use small spinners, in-line spinnerbaits, or a long-shank hook with a nightcrawler drifted through current breaks. Access the Clark Hill backwater arms early morning in spring for largemouth bass ambushing bream along fallen timber. The lightly pressured nature of the USFS backwaters rewards anglers willing to paddle or wade. SC freshwater fishing license required (USFS does not issue licenses). All SCDNR freshwater regulations apply. No motor restrictions on Clark Hill backwaters via USFS ramps, but check USFS-specific ramp hours and road conditions seasonally. Lick Fork Lake: non-motorized watercraft only. [Field Guide](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/francismarionsumter/recreation/long-cane-ranger-district-0) Parson's Mountain Lake (Long Cane District, Abbeville County) Approx. 28 acres National Forest lake (USFS recreational impoundment) Sumter National Forest, Long Cane Ranger District, Abbeville County β€” off SC 72 W near McCormick; Parson's Mountain Recreation Area, approx. 18 miles from downtown Greenwood Largemouth Bass Bluegill Redear Sunfish Channel Catfish Parson's Mountain Lake is a secluded 28-acre impoundment tucked into the Long Cane Ranger District of Sumter National Forest in Abbeville County. Described by the US Forest Service as a 'lesser-known jewel of the forest,' the lake is surrounded by dense hardwood and pine woodland, with nine primitive campsites adjacent to the water providing multi-day fishing access. Because motor use is restricted to non-motorized craft, the lake receives minimal pressure and supports quality largemouth bass and bluegill populations relative to its size. Bank fishing is available at multiple spots around the shoreline. Parson's Mountain Recreation Area off SC 72 W (take SC 72 W from downtown Greenwood toward Abbeville, turn south at USFS signs). Non-motorized watercraft only (kayaks, canoes, jon boats with electric trolling motor). SC freshwater fishing license required. Primitive campsite fee applies for overnight stays. Angler Tip Early morning topwater fishing with poppers in late April and May produces quality largemouth bass around the lake's shoreline timber. Redear sunfish hit red worms and crickets particularly well in May during the spawn β€” look for them fanning beds in 3–5 feet of water near the campsite bank. Non-motorized watercraft only. SC freshwater fishing license required. Standard SCDNR statewide freshwater creel and size limits apply. Area may have seasonal access restrictions β€” verify current conditions with Long Cane Ranger District (803-637-5396) before visiting. [Field Guide](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/francismarionsumter/recreation/long-cane-ranger-district-0) Did We Miss a Spot? Know a Greenwood-area fishing lake, pond, or river stretch that should be on this list? Let us know. [Report a Fishing Spot](/submit-a-tip/?topic=report-a-fishing-spot) Local Experts Field *Guides* Hire a local fishing guide and put your line on the right water in Greenwood. Expert captains who know Greenwood waters. CP Cliff Pitts Veteran Lake Wylie guide specializing in striped bass and crappie. Lake Wylie Catawba River [(803) 555-0100](tel:8035550100) Guide Service or Charter Captain? Get listed in the Field Guides section and reach active anglers across Greenwood and the HERE City Network. [List Your Guide Service](/contact/) [Launch Special$1 a day for up to 90 days β€” Best deal in Greenwood Reach all the Fishing traffic in Greenwood β€” it’s a deal! Find out how](#fr-banner-form) Launch Special Your Banner *Here* $1/day Up to **90 days** at the launch rate. Cancel anytime. - Drop us your website URL β€” we build the banner for you - Runs above the **Community Reviews** section - No contract. No setup fee. Cancel anytime. - Local Greenwood anglers see your business every visit Your Name * Business Name * Website URL * Email * Phone (optional) How long would you like to reserve it? Daily $1 Weekly $7 30 days $30 60 days $60 90 days $90 Lock in $1/day β€” Build my banner No payment now. We email a preview within one business day. Your launch rate is locked when you approve. Community Reviews I Fished *Here* Share Your Trip Fished a Greenwood-area lake or river? Tell us about it in 280 characters or fewer. Water Body Fished * Select a water body... Lake Greenwood Saluda River β€” Lake Greenwood Tailrace Lake Greenwood State Park Fishing Pier Star Fort Pond (SCDNR State Lake) Lake Secession Long Cane Creek / Sumter National Forest (Long Cane District) Parson's Mountain Lake (Long Cane District, Abbeville County) Other Lake / Pond Other River / Creek Your First Name * How Was the Fishing? * (280 characters max) Species Caught Select species... Largemouth Bass Smallmouth Bass Crappie Catfish Bluegill / Bream Trout Multiple Species Other Lure / Bait That Worked Best Spot / Area on the Water Submit Review Community Here *We...* Reel Them *In...* Big catches, personal bests, and tournament fish from Greenwood anglers. Your First Name * Where Did You Catch It? Species * Select species... Largemouth Bass Smallmouth Bass Crappie Catfish Bluegill Trout Other Weight / Length / Details Tell Us About It * (200 chars max) Photo or Video (optional, max 8MB) Submit Catch Cast Them *Cold...* Your favorite post-fishing spots. Where do you go when the rods are stowed? Your First Name * Bar / Restaurant Name * Go-To Drink Why This Spot? * (200 chars max) Photo of the Bar or Drink (optional, max 8MB) Submit Pick Coverage Fishing News *HERE* Presented by [Become a Sponsor](/section-sponsorship/?section=fishing) Local β€” Greenwood and Lakelands Coming Soon Local Greenwood Fishing Coverage Coming Soon Local lake reports, stocking news, tournament results, and Lakelands fishing coverage from the HERE Greenwood newsroom. National β€” Bass, Fishing Regulations, and Conservation Coming Soon National National Fishing Coverage Coming Soon Bass fishing news, conservation legislation, national tournament results, gear reviews, and fishing stories with a Greenwood perspective. [View All Greenwood Fishing Coverage β†’](/tag/fishing-heregreenwood-sc/) More at Outdoor Sports Hunting, camping, hiking, and all outdoor sports coverage for Greenwood and Lakelands SC [See All at Outdoor Sports](/outdoor-sports/) Partner [Advertise Here](/section-sponsorship/) Tackle, Rods and Reels Essential *Gear HERE* Gear reviews and picks for the Greenwood angler β€” rods, reels, tackle, and kayaks tested for Lakelands SC waters. Presented by https://www.amazon.com/?tag=heregreenwood-20 Shop our hand-picked fishing gear on Amazon. Free Prime shipping, easy returns. [Become a Sponsor](/section-sponsorship/?section=fishing) Gear Reviews β€” Tested for Lakelands SC Waters As an Amazon Associate, HERE earns from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability subject to change. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088K2K149?tag=heregreenwood-20 Fishing Rod Holder Smart Fish Catcher Fishing Pole Holders Automatic Spring Tip-Up Hook with… Rod Hand-picked by the HERE Fishing desk this week. Fishing Rod Holder Smart Fish Catcher Fishing Pole Holders Automatic Spring Tip-Up Hook with…. β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† 4.6 / 5 $26.96 Best for: Recommended by the HERE Fishing desk [View on Amazon β†’](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088K2K149?tag=heregreenwood-20) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CQCB1HZ9?tag=heregreenwood-20 HADORAM Robotic Swimming Lure 5.1” Fishing Lure 4-Segement Multi Jointed Swimbait Electric B… Lure Hand-picked by the HERE Fishing desk this week. HADORAM Robotic Swimming Lure 5.1” Fishing Lure 4-Segement Multi Jointed Swimbait Electric B…. β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† 4.6 / 5 $22.99 Best for: Recommended by the HERE Fishing desk [View on Amazon β†’](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CQCB1HZ9?tag=heregreenwood-20) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08LDZWMKF?tag=heregreenwood-20 Garmin Striker Cast, Castable Sonar, Pair with Mobile Device and Cast from Anywhere, Reel in… Reel Hand-picked by the HERE Fishing desk this week. Garmin Striker Cast, Castable Sonar, Pair with Mobile Device and Cast from Anywhere, Reel in…. β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† 4.6 / 5 $129.99 Best for: Recommended by the HERE Fishing desk [View on Amazon β†’](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08LDZWMKF?tag=heregreenwood-20) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BD7YYBJ?tag=heregreenwood-20 Deeper PRO+ 2 Sonar Fish Finder - Portable Fish Finder and Depth Finder For Kayaks, Boats an… Fish Finder Hand-picked by the HERE Fishing desk this week. Deeper PRO+ 2 Sonar Fish Finder - Portable Fish Finder and Depth Finder For Kayaks, Boats an…. β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† 4.6 / 5 $159.99 Best for: Recommended by the HERE Fishing desk [View on Amazon β†’](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BD7YYBJ?tag=heregreenwood-20) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DPMC52G7?tag=heregreenwood-20 Chasing Gladius MINI S Upgraded Professional Underwater Drone Set, with 4k Resolution + EIS … Fishing Gear Hand-picked by the HERE Fishing desk this week. Chasing Gladius MINI S Upgraded Professional Underwater Drone Set, with 4k Resolution + EIS …. β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† 4.6 / 5 $1399.00 Best for: Recommended by the HERE Fishing desk [View on Amazon β†’](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DPMC52G7?tag=heregreenwood-20) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FL28MMF9?tag=heregreenwood-20 【2025 New】FIFISH V-EVO 4K60FPS Underwater Drone with Robotic Arm, with Removable SD Card, QY… Fishing Gear Hand-picked by the HERE Fishing desk this week. 【2025 New】FIFISH V-EVO 4K60FPS Underwater Drone with Robotic Arm, with Removable SD Card, QY…. β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† 4.6 / 5 $1699.00 Best for: Recommended by the HERE Fishing desk [View on Amazon β†’](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FL28MMF9?tag=heregreenwood-20) Tackle Shop, Guide Service, or Marina? Get featured in the Essential Gear section and reach active anglers across the HERE City Network β€” 100+ cities. [Learn About Gear Advertising](/contact/) South Carolina DNR SCDNR *Regulations* License requirements, bag limits, and size limits for Greenwood waters. Always verify current regulations at dnr.sc.gov. SC Fishing Licenses SC Resident Annual Age 16+ required to fish all public waters $10.00 SC Resident Senior (65+) Reduced rate for SC residents age 65 and over $5.00 Non-Resident Annual Required for all non-SC residents age 16+ $35.00 Non-Resident 3-Day Short-term license for visiting anglers $11.00 Free Fishing Days May 25 (Memorial Weekend) and July 4 β€” no license required FREE Boating Permit (Lakes) A SC boat registration is required for all motorized watercraft on Lake Greenwood and other public waters in Greenwood County. Registration is through SCDNR at dnr.sc.gov. A federally mandated boater safety education certificate is required for operators born after July 1, 1982. Jug fishing is legal on Lake Greenwood and Lake Secession β€” a jug permit is required to fish 3 to 50 jugs (50-jug maximum); jug fishing is not required for 2 or fewer jugs with a valid SC freshwater fishing license. Jugs must display the licensee's name and SCDNR customer ID number. Jugs must be removed before one hour after official sunrise and may not be replaced until one hour before official sunset. Varies Bag & Size Limits β€” Greenwood Waters Largemouth Bass 5 combined black bass **Min Size:**On Lake Greenwood, Lake Secession, and the middle reach of the Saluda River (Lake Greenwood Dam to Lake Murray): largemouth bass minimum size limit is 14 inches. The statewide daily bag limit of 10 black bass (largemouth, smallmouth, redeye, and spotted combined) applies on most other Greenwood area waters. Verify current regulations at dnr.sc.gov/freshwater or eregulations.com/southcarolina. Per SCDNR eRegulations. Combined limit includes smallmouth, redeye, spotted. Smallmouth Bass See black bass limit **Min Size:**12" minimum statewide Smallmouth bass are present in the Saluda River tailrace below the Lake Greenwood Dam and in some Long Cane District streams. Statewide, smallmouth bass have a 12-inch minimum size limit, and no more than 5 smallmouth/largemouth/redeye bass combined may be kept per day on most waters. On Lake Greenwood, the combined 14-inch minimum for largemouth bass effectively applies to mixed-bass fishing. Crappie (Black & White) 20 per day **Min Size:**8" minimum statewide Per SC Code 50-13-220. 8-inch size limit effective 2012. Blue Catfish 25 per day **Min Size:**Only 2 fish over 32" per person Greenwood area lakes and rivers support channel catfish, flathead catfish, and blue catfish. No statewide minimum size limit applies to catfish; the standard daily limit is 30 catfish combined. Star Fort Pond has a special reduced limit of 3 catfish per day. Jug fishing for catfish is legal on Lake Greenwood (permit required for 3–50 jugs). Trotlines, traps, and other nongame fishing devices may be used on Lake Greenwood and Lake Secession with the appropriate license β€” verify device-specific permits at dnr.sc.gov. Bluegill / Bream 30 per day statewide **Min Size:**No minimum Bluegill, redear sunfish (shellcracker), redbreast sunfish, warmouth, and other bream species are abundant throughout Lake Greenwood and area streams. Statewide daily limit is 30 bream combined. Star Fort Pond has a special limit of 20 bream per day. No minimum size limit applies statewide to bream species. Spring and early summer (April–June) are peak bream fishing seasons on Lake Greenwood and the Saluda River shoals. Trout (all species) 5 per day trout season **Min Size:**No minimum (stocked) Stocking schedule posted by SCDNR each season Special Rules & Alerts for Greenwood Waters - SC freshwater fishing license required for all anglers age 16 and older β€” purchase at dnr.sc.gov or authorized local agents. - Lake Greenwood and Lake Secession: largemouth bass minimum size limit is 14 inches; daily black bass limit is 10 fish combined (largemouth, smallmouth, spotted, redeye). - Saluda River Middle Reach (Lake Greenwood Dam to Lake Murray): striped bass β€” 21-inch minimum and 5-fish limit Oct. 1–May 31; no size limit and 5-fish limit June 1–Sept. 30. - Jug fishing is legal on Lake Greenwood and Lake Secession: permit required for 3–50 jugs; name and SCDNR customer ID on each jug; jugs must be off the water one hour after sunrise and not reset until one hour before sunset. - Star Fort Pond (Ninety Six) special limits: 3 largemouth bass (12-inch minimum), 3 catfish, 20 bream per day β€” open Wed., Fri., and Sat. only, April 1–November 1, electric or paddle craft only. - Sumter National Forest Long Cane District waters require only a SC state fishing license β€” no separate USFS fishing permit is required; all SCDNR regulations apply. Regulations shown are for general reference. Always verify current rules with the SC Department of Natural Resources at **dnr.sc.gov** or by calling the SCDNR Wildlife Helpline. Regulations may change each season. Fishing regulations in South Carolina are updated annually. The information above reflects SCDNR regulations in effect at time of publication and is provided for general guidance only. Always verify current rules, bag limits, and size limits in the official SCDNR South Carolina Freshwater Fishing Regulations guide at dnr.sc.gov/freshwater or at eregulations.com/southcarolina before fishing any Greenwood County water. Regulations on Saluda River striped bass are particularly subject to change. For questions, contact the SCDNR Greenwood/Lakelands regional office at (864) 223-1307. Spawn Timing & Key Dates Season *Calendar* SC DNR stocks May-June annually SC DNR stocks November-January Bottom fishing with cut bait Spawn timing is approximate and based on typical Greenwood water temperature patterns. Actual timing varies by year and water body. SCDNR trout stocking schedules are published annually β€” visit dnr.sc.gov for exact dates and stocking locations. Questions and Answers Fishing *FAQ* Common questions about fishing in the Greenwood area, answered. - Do I need a fishing license to fish in Greenwood SC? Yes. All anglers age 16 and older need a SC fishing license to fish public waters in Greenwood. SC residents pay $10 for an annual freshwater license. Non-residents pay $35 annually or $11 for a 3-day license. Licenses are available at SCDNR.sc.gov or at local sporting goods and tackle shops. Two Free Fishing Days β€” May 25 (Memorial weekend) and July 4 β€” require no license. - What are the best fishing lakes near Greenwood SC? Lake Greenwood is the defining water of the Greenwood County area β€” an 11,400-acre Saluda River impoundment with 212 miles of shoreline stretching 26 miles through Greenwood, Laurens, and Newberry counties. Owned by Greenwood County and co-managed with SCDNR, it supports one of the most productive black crappie fisheries in the South Carolina Upstate. SCDNR surveys report that crappie account for roughly 66 percent of the total fish biomass harvested by recreational anglers β€” the species overwhelmingly dominate the lake's shallow-to-mid-depth structure. Largemouth and spotted bass are the secondary draw; veteran tournament anglers prize the lake for consistently above-average bass weights, particularly on topwater frogs around dock lanes in summer. SCDNR stocks striped bass annually, adding a trophy fishery that peaks December through February when fish suspend over deep main-lake structure. Five public boat ramps β€” including two at Lake Greenwood State Park β€” provide strong countywide access. For a change of pace, neighboring Star Fort Pond (22–27 acres, Ninety Six) is a SCDNR state lake open Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays with reduced fishing pressure and quality bream and bass. Lake Secession (1,450 acres, Abbeville County) adds another outstanding crappie and bass option within 20 miles. The Long Cane District of Sumter National Forest offers additional stream and backwater fishing on public federal lands. Verify current regulations at dnr.sc.gov before each trip. - When is the best time to fish for crappie in Greenwood? Black crappie are Lake Greenwood's signature catch. SCDNR creel data show crappie make up over a third of all angler trips on the lake and approximately 66 percent of total fish biomass harvested β€” a dominance that is unusual even among the South's top crappie lakes. Lake Greenwood is overwhelmingly a black crappie fishery; white crappie account for less than one percent of the crappie population. The spring spawn (mid-March through late April, water temp 58–65 Β°F) pulls fish into 3–8 feet of water around boat dock pilings, submerged bridge supports, and shallow brush. The dominant local technique is 'dipping' β€” vertically presenting a 1/32–1/16 oz jig on a long graphite rod at each dock post, holding it still, then applying a subtle wrist twitch to trigger strikes. Work sunny dock sides in cold water; switch to shady sides as temperatures rise. Outside the spawn, crappie suspend over deep brush piles at 20–25 feet on the main lake from May through October. Slow trolling with curly-tail or paddle-tail jigs on multiple rods is effective for locating suspended fish β€” vary colors, trolling speed, and line length until you find the productive combination. By late autumn, crappie return to mid-depth structure and become accessible again to dock-fishing and casting techniques. Statewide regulations apply β€” no closed season for crappie; standard 30-fish per day limit. Verify at dnr.sc.gov. - Can you kayak fish on Greenwood lakes? Kayak and canoe anglers have excellent options throughout the Greenwood area. The Saluda River tailrace below the Lake Greenwood Dam offers a multi-day float from the SC Hwy 34 access point downriver through scenic Piedmont shoals and pools β€” redbreast sunfish, bass, and catfish are accessible from the water. Put in at the Hwy 34 bridge ramp (Newberry County side for easier carry) and take out at downstream public access points. Lake Greenwood itself can be paddled from the State Park ramp for crappie and bass along the quiet creek arms of the southern basin. On Sumter National Forest's Long Cane District, Parson's Mountain Lake and Lick Fork Lake are designated non-motorized waters offering a remote paddling-and-fishing experience through hardwood forest. The Long Cane and Highway 28 Boat Ramps on the Clark Hill backwaters allow paddlers to access miles of protected creek arms. SC freshwater fishing license required on all public waters. - What other rivers and streams near Greenwood are good for fishing? In addition to the Saluda River tailrace, the Greenwood area is bracketed by productive Piedmont streams. Long Cane Creek drains the Long Cane District of Sumter National Forest through Abbeville and McCormick counties before entering the Clark Hill and Lake Russell backwaters β€” the upper creek arms are rich in redbreast sunfish, spotted bass, and chain pickerel accessible by kayak or wade-fishing. Stevens Creek (McCormick County) feeds Lake Thurmond and is one of the few legal jug-fishing waters in South Carolina (permit required). The Reedy River runs through Greenwood County at its northern edge and provides additional warmwater fishing access at multiple public points. For the most current access maps and regulations on all area streams, use SCDNR's South Carolina Public Fishing Access tool at dnr.sc.gov/lakes/access.html. - Do Greenwood lakes get trout stocked? Lake Greenwood and the Saluda River within Greenwood County do not support a trout fishery β€” water temperatures are too warm in summer to sustain trout populations without the cold hypolimnetic releases that cold-water tailraces require. The nearest viable trout fishing is on the middle Saluda River forks (North Saluda below North Saluda Reservoir and South Saluda below Table Rock) in the upper Upstate, roughly 60 miles north of Greenwood. The lower Saluda River below Lake Murray (in Lexington County, approximately 60 miles east) also receives annual SCDNR trout stockings from December through May. For Greenwood-area anglers seeking trout, SCDNR's annual stocking schedules and stream-specific regulations are at dnr.sc.gov. ITS ALL HERE! Fishing News Near You![THE HERE CITY NETWORK](https://www.herecity.com)[Greenville, SC](https://heregreenville.com/fishing/) [Aiken, SC](https://hereaiken.com/fishing/) [Spartanburg, SC](https://herespartanburg.com/fishing/) [Columbia, SC](https://herecolumbia.com/fishing/) [Rock Hill, SC](https://hererockhill.com/fishing/) [Florence, SC](https://hereflorence.com/fishing/) [Hilton Head Island, SC](https://herehiltonhead.com/fishing/) [Charleston, SC](https://herecharleston.com/fishing/) [Detroit, MI](https://heredetroitmi.com/fishing/)