From the inland lakes to winding rivers, South Carolina has an abundance of canoeing and fishing opportunities. After loading your canoe with all the necessary gear for you trip, you can head out on the state's waterways and catch bass, trout and other species. Afterward, you can paddle to your campsite to cook your catch.
State Park Camping
In South Carolina, you can take advantage of paddle-in campsites in two state parks. Both Cheraw State Park and Devils Fork State Park offer campsites along their rivers and lakes. You can use the campground landing or ramp, located approximately 1 mile from the campground, and enjoy fishing for bass, bream and catfish in Lake Juniper.
Devils Fork State Park has 13 boat-in campsites with tent pads, fire rings and picnic tables. There is no boat launch at the park, though you may use the beach area for anchoring and launching. You can fish for a variety of species in Jocassee Lake including trout, bass, bluegill and crappie.
National Park Camping
Congaree National Park in central South Carolina is comprised of an old-growth forest and floodplain. Here you can canoe through the parks waterways, camping at backcountry sites along the way. Canoe tours are available through the park office, though you also can head out on your own. There are no restroom or water accommodations in the park's backcountry areas. You may fish anywhere in the park with the exception of Weston Lake at the end of the park's boardwalk.
National Forest Canoe Trails
Miles of canoe trails wind through the Francis Marion National Forest in South Carolina. These waters feature scenic surroundings and 100 different species of fish. While exploring the area in your canoe, you can hook a bass, trout, sunfish or catfish. Wambaw Creek, Chicken Creak and Echaw Creeks are among the waters the U.S. Forest Service suggests for the best fishing experience. Buck Hall Recreation Area features both modern and primitive camping sites from which you can set out for a day of exploring and fishing.
Equipment
Canoe camping, like backpacking, does not offer the same conveniences as car camping. You will only have what equipment you bring with you and will not have the opportunity to drive to a store and purchase forgotten items. For this reason, it is important to remember all necessary equipment for your trip. This includes a tent, sleeping bag, tarp, firewood, water, rope for tying boats to shore, a flashlight, a first aid kit and all necessary food and cooking equipment. Remembering these essentials will help to ensure you have a pleasant camping trip.
Considerations
Regardless where you plan to fish, you must first obtain a South Carolina fishing license. These are typically available at any sporting goods store. Also, to avoid problems with invasive species in the state, you should not bring live baitfish such as minnows, amphibians or fish eggs into the lakes and rivers. The National Park Service also does not permit digging for bait or using chum to attract fish.
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