Every spring, St. Matthews, South Carolina, wakes to the calls of early risers and the eager splash of lines hitting water during the Community Fishing Tournament. The town, resting just a short drive from Lake Marion, becomes a hub where locals and visitors align their rhythms to the pulse of river currents and the thrill of the catch.

The tournament centers around the tranquil yet lively waters along the Congaree and Wateree Rivers, both daring anglers with shifting currents and hiding spots where bass, catfish, and bream play their elusive games. The event runs over a weekend, encompassing competitive heats and social gatherings, creating an atmosphere that’s equal parts challenge and camaraderie.

For participants, understanding the landscape is as important as knowing the bait. The banks offer a mix of flat, grassy spots and uneven terrain peppered with patches of hardwood trees that lean toward the water, their branches daring you to navigate beneath. Expect to cover several miles on foot between prime fishing zones, with light elevation changes and soft muds near the water’s edge that test footwear choices.

Beyond the rods and reels, the tournament offers practical rewards: local vendors provide gear checks and tips, while the town’s eateries serve up fresh catfish platters and iced tea. Planning your timing is key—early mornings best capture fish feeding, while afternoons bring a slower rhythm to the river’s face. Hydration is crucial, as South Carolina’s spring sun can push temperatures toward the 80s, urging frequent water breaks.

Whether you're lining up your first cast or back for another round, the St. Matthews Community Fishing Tournament is a direct engagement with a river that refuses to be tamed and a community that celebrates its fierce, watery terrain. Come ready for a weekend where nature meets grit, and every catch is a story retold around the fire.

Here’s how to prepare for a weekend where the river calls and the reel responds.