In a world where popular fly fishing destinations often overshadow hidden gems, the Lowcountry stands out as a true sanctuary for anglers. As this beautiful region continues to grow, I find myself deeply connected to its essence, feeling more at home with every moment I spend wandering through its estuaries.
Capturing the raw beauty of the Lowcountry marshes is no easy task. Our fishery is world-class, requiring a deep understanding of the unique species it hosts. The Lowcountry experiences an eight-foot tide swing, which constantly changes throughout the day. A thirty-minute window might yield rewards, but conditions can shift to another shoreline ten miles away just as quickly.
The Lowcountry experiences an eight-foot tide swing, which constantly changes throughout the day.
Redfish are the stars of the show, particularly during the unique flood tides, where the sight of tailing redfish is nothing short of magical. The semi-diurnal tide cycles, especially during a full moon, transform the landscape and flood dry spots among the spartina grass flats. These patches of dry spartina become bustling cities for fiddler crabs, shrimp and the occasional finger mullet. Redfish take advantage of these tides and crawl into the skinnies as they invade the privacy of their prey. This provides our anglers with some of the most epic shots at a single tailing redfish known to the sport.
My good friend and fellow guide, Nicholas Boyd, and I have the privilege of making this adventure our livelihood. As true Lowcountry natives, we’ve developed a profound connection to the place we call home. Over the past couple of months, we’ve shared remarkable days in the grass and mud flats, often accompanied by talented anglers like our friend Gryphon Richardson. Being out on a small skiff with these like-minded individuals who share a passion for this area creates an atmosphere ripe for fantastic conversations and unforgettable experiences.
The Lowcountry is also a haven for birdwatching—a newfound obsession of mine in recent years. Standing in a sanctuary filled with migrating birds while hunting for redfish is truly breathtaking. Aside from the rare birds we encounter, the sight of seagulls diving and egrets right on their tail is one of the most exciting moments you can experience during the hunt for redfish. Watching them pop shrimp amidst the schools, with oysters adding a unique backdrop, adds to the list of highlights within the region’s beauty.
Despite my efforts to describe the Lowcountry, I often feel that words fall short. For those who know this place well, its potential is evident. The Lowcountry isn’t just a fishing destination; it’s a sanctuary of nature, adventure and connection. Whether you’re poling the flats or exploring its heart, the magic of the Lowcountry invites you to get lost in its beauty and discover the stories it has to tell.
Contributed By
Tyler Bowman
Tyler Bowman is a Lowcountry Native who began fishing this area on his own at the ripe age of ten years old. The beautiful Lowcountry Marshes have been Tyler’s backyard playground ever since he could remember. Tyler cherished being outside immersed in the marsh which created an unbreakable bond with the land he still roams today. Growing up exploring the creeks around his home, guiding came naturally to Tyler. Many years of poling his friends and family around at a young age gave him an extra edge on the water.
After a memorable mentorship and working at Seven Mile Fly Shop in the Florida keys, Tyler came back to his roots, to guide on his home water once again. Helping others catch trophy fish on the fly rod is a rewarding feeling that fuels Tyler’s passion for sharing what he loves with or without a camera. His goal is to show people the true beauty of the Lowcountry while helping push conservation concerns and documenting the journey along the way.
More about Tyler here – Lowcountry Fisherman Charters
