Fishing Report for the Savannah River - April 12, 2025
Good morning, anglers! Conditions around the Savannah River are shaping up nicely for a weekend on the water. Sunrise today is at 6:57 AM and sunset will be at 7:50 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to reel in some good catches. Here's your detailed report:
**Tides and Weather**
Today's tide schedule is promising for fishing. The first high tide is at 8:31 AM, reaching a height of 6.9 feet, followed by a low tide at 2:45 PM at 0.16 feet. The last high tide is at 8:55 PM with a peak of 7.49 feet. These tidal changes, combined with a stable weather pattern, should make for active fish behavior. The temperature will range between 55°F in the early morning and a comfortable high of 78°F later in the day. Winds will be light, so conditions on the river should remain calm.
**Fish Activity and Catch Updates**
Bass fishing has been solid, with anglers reporting success using spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and shaky-head worms near structure and in backwater areas. Catfish have been hitting well on cut bait and chicken liver in the deeper channels. Reports indicate flatheads and channel catfish weighing up to 20 pounds have been caught recently. Crappie fishing is slowing as the spawn wraps up, but trolling small jigs in 8-12 feet of water remains productive. Near-shore and backwater areas are also giving up good numbers of bream and bluegill on live worms and crickets.
**Best Lures and Bait**
For largemouth bass, try buzzbaits early and switch to soft plastics or shallow crankbaits as the sun rises. Catfish anglers are having success with chicken liver and cut shad. Crappie are responding to small jigs in natural colors like smoke and chartreuse. Redbreast and bluegill are active near structure, with white Beetle Spins and live bait producing consistently.
**Hot Spots**
1. **Backwater Oxbows near Clyo**: Great for crappie and bream. Target these areas with artificial jigs and live bait.
2. **Lower Savannah River Channels**: Focus on deeper sections for catfish. A combination of cut bait and chicken liver should do the trick.
3. **Baker's Landing**: A productive spot for spring bass, particularly near submerged timber and vegetation.
The Savannah River's water levels at Clyo are currently at 8.7 feet and rising, making backwater areas and shallower coves prime feeding grounds for many species. Whether you're looking to troll for crappie, hook into a hefty catfish, or cast for bass, today promises plenty of action. Tight lines and good luck out there!