A fishing adventure in Travelers Rest is perfect for reeling in a great catch while enjoying the scenic beauty of the region.
With fishing spots like Pleasant Ridge County Park, Table Rock Lakes, Paris Mountain State Park, Lake Robinson, and The Big Lakes teeming with bass, trout, catfish and panfish, opportunities for freshwater angling abound in this area.
However, ensuring an enjoyable and responsible angling experience involves more than just casting a line. From navigating local regulations to packing the right gear, this guide will outline the basic do’s and don’ts for your fishing escapade in Travelers Rest, providing you with the keys to unlock a safe and successful angling experience in this charming locale.
- Do bring appropriate gear for the type of fishing you plan to do
To make the most out of your freshwater angling excursion, assemble a well-rounded set of gear. Start with an appropriate fishing rod and reel combo, including a line that matches your target fish and water conditions. The 7-foot Pflueger President Spinning Combo is a good option for catching bass, panfish, and trout in larger lakes since it’s designed to cast smaller lures with ease. Use this in tandem with fluorocarbon fishing lines, which are best suited to clear water conditions, and you’ve got the basics down. Ensure that a variety of hooks are also on hand to accommodate different baits and fish sizes.
2. Do protect yourself from the sun
Gear up with sun protection to stay safe during your fishing trip. Spending extended periods outdoors exposes anglers to intense sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn, photokeratitis and long-term skin damage. The combination of water reflection and the open environment only amplifies ultraviolet exposure. To protect against this, pack a hat, sunglasses, as well as sunscreen. Choose a fishing hat like the KastKing Sol Armis Boonie Hat, which is made with a breathable fabric, has a moisture-wicking headband, and an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 50.
To keep your eyes protected and prevent glare from interrupting your vision, opt for polarized sunglasses with larger frames such as the Cortez and Sun Fame from Eyebuydirect or wraparound options like the Oakley Gascan. Besides protecting your eyes from the sun, polarized sunglasses increase the clarity of things at ground level or when looking into water, making fly fishing and sight fishing easier, especially in murky river beds. For sunscreen, bring a tube with an SPF of at least 30, such as the Thinksport Mineral sunscreen lotion with SPF 50, and don’t forget to reapply every 2 hours.
3. Don’t fish without the required licenses or permits
Any person age 16 or older must possess a valid fishing license while fishing in South Carolina. A fishing license is required for fishing in public waters such as lakes or rivers even if you’re on private land. You can purchase a license at any of the 500 license agents in most bait and tackle stores throughout South Carolina. Every fishing license purchase helps to support fisheries research, habitat enhancement, and management projects. Moreover, be mindful of Leave No Trace guidelines and be sure to take whatever trash you bring and pick up any litter left behind.
4. Don’t forget safety essentials
Don’t forget to bring along extra safety items such as water, flashlights, maps and a cell phone or radio. Staying hydrated with an ample water supply is vital, especially if you expect to be outdoors for a few hours. In case of emergencies, keep a small, powerful flashlight like the Imalent MS03 handy to help you see in low-light conditions. Having a map can also be useful to aid navigation and avoid getting lost in unfamiliar areas. Lastly, keeping a cell phone or radio with you enhances communication and allows for prompt assistance if an emergency arises.
Follow the tips mentioned above for the perfect fishing trip in Travelers Rest. In a nutshell, make sure to respect the rules, take care of the environment and stay safe. By doing so, you can enjoy the beauty of the area and have a fishing experience for the books.
