February may be considered the off-season for many coastal destinations, but in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, inshore fishing is just hitting its stride. With cooler temperatures and crystal-clear waters, this is the perfect time to experience the Lowcountry’s winter fishing at its finest.
Whether you're an experienced angler or booking your first trip with a Hilton Head fishing charter, targeting the right species in February can make all the difference. Here's a look at the top five inshore fish to catch this month and how to find success with each one.
1. Redfish (Red Drum)
Why Target Redfish in February?
Redfish are highly active during the winter and often form large schools in shallow water. On sunny days, you can sight-cast to tailing reds cruising mud flats or warming in the shallows—an exhilarating experience for any angler.
Where to Find Them:
Shallow tidal flats during low tide
Mud bottoms that retain warmth from the sun
Creek mouths and oyster bars
Best Baits & Techniques:
Live shrimp, cut mullet, or soft plastics
Stealthy approach with light tackle
Sight casting during calm conditions
Redfish are a favorite for Hilton Head inshore fishing charters because of their reliability and powerful runs.
2. Speckled Trout
Why Target Trout in February?
Speckled trout are still actively feeding in the winter, especially in deeper channels and tidal creeks. Although they may slow down a bit, they’re still aggressive when presented with the right bait.
Where to Find Them:
Deep holes and creek bends
Around oyster beds and submerged structure
Areas with slow-moving current
Best Baits & Techniques:
Live shrimp under popping corks
Slow-retrieved paddle tails and soft plastics
Natural colors and light fluorocarbon leaders
Trout provide consistent action and are a great complement to any winter inshore charter targeting redfish or black drum.
3. Sheepshead
Why Target Sheepshead in February?
February is peak season for sheepshead. These striped fish are often found in large schools near structure and provide a tough fight paired with excellent table fare.
Where to Find Them:
Dock pilings, bridge supports, and jetties
Areas with barnacle-covered structure
Deeper water with hard bottoms
Best Baits & Techniques:
Fiddler crabs, barnacles, or shrimp
Dropper rigs or knocker rigs near vertical structure
Small, sharp hooks (1/0–2/0) for their bony mouths
Sheepshead are a great target for anglers looking for a challenge and some fresh fish to take home.
4. Black Drum
Why Target Black Drum in February?
Black drum are similar to redfish in their habitat and feeding behavior but are generally larger and more bottom-oriented. In February, big black drum feed heavily in deeper marsh channels and around oyster beds.
Where to Find Them:
Deep marsh channels and creek mouths
Oyster reefs and mud flats
Around docks and bridges
Best Baits & Techniques:
Cut crab, shrimp, or clams
Carolina rigs with circle hooks (3/0–5/0)
Patient bottom fishing on outgoing tides
Monster drum up to 50 pounds are not uncommon in Hilton Head’s winter waters and offer one of the most powerful fights inshore.
5. Flounder (Bonus Target)
Why Target Flounder in February?
While not as common in February as during warmer months, flounder are still a possibility in deeper, warmer holes and backwater creeks, especially on mild days.
Where to Find Them:
Creek mouths and muddy bottom channels
Edges of oyster beds and sandy drop-offs
Best Baits & Techniques:
Mud minnows or finger mullet on jig heads
Slow dragging along the bottom
Light spinning tackle and sensitive rod tips
Landing a flounder is a bonus reward on a February inshore fishing trip—perfect for a mixed-bag experience.
Why Book a Hilton Head Fishing Charter in February?
Fishing in February is all about knowing where the fish are and when they’ll bite. That’s where Hilton Head fishing charters make all the difference. Our experienced captains fish these waters year-round and know exactly where to take you for red-hot action—even in cooler months.
Charter Benefits:
Expert guidance and local insight
All gear, bait, and licenses provided
Family-friendly trips with options for every experience level
Opportunity to target multiple species in one trip
Whether you're inshore fishing for redfish, hunting for giant black drum, or chasing sheepshead around pilings, our charters are designed to deliver results and unforgettable memories.
Ready for a fishing adventure in Hilton Head? Call us at 843-806-2424 or submit an inquiry through our website to book your charter today. Don’t wait, unforgettable experiences await!
