Navigating the Shallows: Crafting the Perfect Inshore Light Tackle for Pawleys Island.
The right tackle can make all the difference in success in Pawleys Island.
Inshore fishing, with its shallow waters and need for stealth approach, presents a unique set of challenges and excitement for anglers. A well-crafted light tackle setup from Pawleys Island Outdoors is the key to success in these dynamic environments. Join us as we explore the essential components and considerations for building the perfect inshore light tackle setup that poses the right balance between finesse and functionality.
Selecting the Right Rod: The foundation of any light tackle setup is the rod. Opt for a medium to medium-light rod, around 7-7’6” feet in length. This allows for accurate casts and provides the sensitivity needed to feel subtle strikes necessary. A fast or extra-fast action rod helps achieve greater sensitivity.
Pairing with the Ideal Reel: Choose a reel that complements your rod, aiming for a size in the 2500 to 3000 range. A quality spinning reel with a smooth sealed drag system is essential for handling the harsh environment it will face in the salt.
Line Matters: Feel in inshore fishing could be of the utmost importance, and the choice of line plays a crucial role. Opt for a braided line with a pound-test suitable for the reel (I typically fish 10lb on a 2500). The low diameter of braided lines enhances sensitivity, improves casting distance, and allows for better control in the shallow waters where stealth is often key.
Leader and Knot Expertise: In clear inshore waters, a fluorocarbon leader is a valuable addition to your setup. Attach a leader of appropriate length, typically 12 to 24 inches, using a reliable knot like the double uni-knot. The leader provides abrasion resistance and reduces the visibility of the line, increasing your chances of fooling wary fish.
Versatile Lure Selection: Inshore species can be selective, so a variety of versatile lures is crucial. Include soft plastics, paddle tails, jerkbaits, topwater lures, and Eyestrike jigheads in your arsenal. Choose lures that mimic the local forage and can be worked effectively in the shallows. Experiment with different colors and sizes to adapt to changing conditions.
Comfortable and Functional Apparel: Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing with UV protection keeps you cool and protected during long days on the water. Don't forget a hat and polarized sunglasses to enhance visibility in the glare.
This set up is a very affordable, reliable choice. 7’6” Star Stellar Lite 6-14lb with a Penn Battle 2500 loaded with 10lb Powerpro.
Crafting the perfect inshore light tackle setup is about finding the delicate balance between finesse and power. By selecting the right rod and reel, choosing the appropriate line, mastering knots, and diversifying your lure selection, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the shallows and tackle a variety of inshore species. With comfort and organization in mind, your inshore light tackle setup becomes the gateway to success in the skinny.
Photography: Bobby Altman Photography
Georgetown Fly Angler: Ed Walzer
Ed Walzer. Where do I start? This guy is the client that makes a guide dreams come true. 70’ 3’ o’clock? Pfft no problem. Don’t trout set? This man has been strip setting before I was a twinkle in my daddy’s eye. Talk junk to the guy on the poling platform? Yep, but able to take it too. What a guy.
Ed reached out to me in early September 2023 about setting up a few dates in October. In our text and phone conversations, I could tell how serious he was about throwing a fly rod. At some point, I thought I was being interrogated by a detective. Are you full time? How long have you been guiding? “Don’t worry about my casting I’ve been doing it a lot longer than you have been on this earth.” Jesus. For the first time since I started guiding, I was sweating about having someone on my boat. I was worried I wouldn’t produce for him. So, as the days came I prepared, found some new fish, and scouted really hard. I felt better but the nerves were still there.
Day one: October 3rd, 6:15am. I pull up, there’s Ed, rods rigged, traveling light and ready to roll. Threw him some rain gear, he suited up and off we went. We made quick conversation and my comfort level rose. The plan was to throw gurglers at first light for a topwater eat. About 10 casts in Ed sticks a nice trout. The heat was off a little, but I knew we had to find the redfish. It slowed and we started working our way into the creeks. Ed was a machine, this guy threw lazers. We got a few shots but not much love. A little while later while poling, I hear thud. I look in the cockpit and a tarpon jumped in the boat. “Ed a f***king tarpon just jumped in the boat” Ed lit up, he thought it was great, so did I. “They just jump in the boat for me.” We laugh about that to this day. With little love from the redfish the tide started to rise, I knew we were on a timer and time was almost up. Ed says “ I had fun but I have to have a redfish next trip.” “Hold on, old man we ain’t done yet..” So as a last ditch effort, I poled into a creek I’ve never fished before. We started in the flooded grass, I look away for a second and boom Ed is tight! This is a nice fish, top end of an estuary fish. We put the heat on and got her to the net 28”. I don’t know who was more excited him or I. What a Hail Mary. “Alright let’s end it there..” We get back to the dock and share our high 5s and as Ed pulls out. “I want a 30” next trip” and chuckles.. I rolled my eyes.
Day Two. October 24th. We are off again, cold, calm and just right. Ed wanted to fish one of his flies, a copperhead crab. We got right to the creeks and boy was it happening. Birds diving over fish, shrimp popping and redfish feasting. “Ed look at that f***king group, hold on, alright hit ‘em in the head.” The fly was ate before it hit the water. Story book scenario, get it to the net and guess what? 30” on the nose. “Alright old man there’s your 30, ready to go home?” We laughed and moved on. We let them fish settle and looked for new ones. We had the same situation happen 2 more times, epic. One fish first refused then turned around and ate 10’ from the skiff. We had a Golden Horseshoe up our ass, well atleast Ed did. We made the victory lap home with two shit eating grins.
We got back to the dock loaded the boat, and conversed a little. Not going to lie I was a little sad he was leaving. I had a lot of fun with him. We said our see ya laters and Ed says “you know you are a good guide, but you didn’t get me a 40 incher” and laughs.
These moments live forever in my mind. The friendships gained in a skiff can be that of a lifetime.
-Johnny
