Savannah’s Six-Hour Inshore Pursuit: Redfish on the Tides
Price includes 2 customers • 4 clients max > 1 year old
Daybreak leans over Savannah’s marsh like a careful hand, lifting a curtain of pearl-gray mist from the spartina. The skiff noses into the flats, whisper-quiet, and the tide—never shy here—nudges the hull like a guide eager to get moving. Egrets flank the creeks, poised and patient. Somewhere ahead, a redfish pushes a V-wake along the bank, tail flicking like a punctuation mark to start your sentence for the day.
Trail Wisdom
Polarized vision matters
Polarized sunglasses help you cut glare and spot redfish wakes, oyster bars, and tailing fish on the flats.
Follow the tide, not the clock
Bite windows often hinge on moving water—expect the game plan to shift as the tide floods and ebbs.
Non-marking shoes only
Wear soft-soled, non-marking deck shoes or sandals to keep footing sure and the skiff clean.
Hydrate early and often
Savannah’s humidity sneaks up on you; start drinking water before you’re thirsty and bring a refillable bottle.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Flood-tide grass flats where tailing reds forage on fiddler crabs—watch for waving tails at high water.
- •Oyster-capped creek mouths on the first of the outgoing tide—prime ambush points for trout.
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphin, Roseate spoonbill (seasonal)
Conservation Note
Oyster reefs protect shorelines and provide critical habitat; avoid running over exposed bars and practice selective harvest or catch-and-release for breeder fish.
Savannah’s estuaries have supported coastal communities for centuries, including Gullah-Geechee traditions built around tides, oysters, and seasonal fisheries.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Active redfish on warming flats, Clearer water for sight-casting
Challenges: Windy fronts, Variable temperatures
Spring brings warming water and cleaner visibility—excellent for trout and cruising reds along the grass edges.
summer
Best for: Dawn topwater trout strikes, Tarpon in the channels
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Pop-up thunderstorms
Start early for cooler temps and topwater action; keep an eye on forecasted storms and hydrate steadily.
fall
Best for: Bull redfish near inlets, Consistent mixed-bag action
Challenges: Stronger tidal swings, Shorter daylight
Autumn is prime—big reds, steady trout, and cooperative flounder. Tides run lively and reward timing.
winter
Best for: Schooling reds on clear flats, Light crowds
Challenges: Cold mornings, Finicky fish after fronts
Cool, clear water concentrates redfish. Slow presentations and patience pay off when the mercury dips.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Polarized sunglasses (amber/green lens)Essential
Glare-cutting lenses reveal wakes, grass lines, and bottom contours essential for accurate casts.
Lightweight sun hoodie + UPF buffEssential
Sun protection keeps you cool and comfortable during long hours on reflective water.
Waterproof shell or packable rain jacket
Pop-up showers and boat spray are common—stay dry without weighing yourself down.
Non-marking deck shoes with good gripEssential
Stable footing helps with balance and quiet movement while casting on a skiff.
Common Questions
Do I need a Georgia fishing license?
No. Your fishing license is included with the charter, along with all rods, tackle, and bait.
Can we keep what we catch?
Yes, within Georgia DNR regulations. The crew can advise on size and bag limits and provide fish cleaning for legal keepers.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety comes first. The captain may adjust start time, route, or reschedule if conditions are unsafe. Light rain usually means fishing through it.
Is this trip suitable for beginners or kids?
Absolutely. The charter is beginner-friendly, and ages over 1 year are welcome. The guide will tailor techniques to your experience.
What should I wear on the boat?
Dress in layers, wear sun-protective clothing, and bring a hat and polarized sunglasses. Non-marking shoes are required.
Are restrooms available during the trip?
There are no onboard restrooms on most inshore skiffs. Use facilities at the marina before departure; quick shore stops may be possible.
What to Pack
Polarized sunglasses for sighting fish and structure; breathable sun hoodie to manage UV and heat; non-marking deck shoes for stable footing; refillable water bottle to stay ahead of hydration in humid conditions.
Did You Know
Georgia’s coast contains roughly 368,000 acres of salt marsh—about one-third of the remaining salt marsh on the U.S. Atlantic seaboard, a critical nursery for redfish and seatrout.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive 15 minutes early to sort gear and sunscreen without cutting into fishing time; Eat a light, non-greasy breakfast to stave off seasickness; Pack a small dry bag for wallet, phone, and a spare layer; Confirm marina location and parking—several Savannah launches are 15–25 minutes from downtown.
Local Flavor
Post-trip, grab waterside plates at The Wyld Dock Bar for marsh views and local seafood. For a casual coastal feast, The Crab Shack on Tybee leans into lowcountry vibes. Back in Thunderbolt, Tubby’s Tank House is a classic stop for fried shrimp and a cold beer.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Savannah/Hilton Head International (SAV). Launch points vary around Savannah/Thunderbolt/Tybee, typically 15–25 minutes from downtown. Cell service is good near town but can be spotty deep in the creeks. Licenses and bait are included; no special permits required for guests.
Sustainability Note
These marshes are nursery grounds—handle fish with wet hands, release over slot-sized breeders, and give oyster reefs a wide berth. Pack out everything you bring, and keep noise low around roosting birds and dolphin feeding zones.