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Premium 8-Hour Catfish Trip on Santee Cooper Lakes

  • Published Date: July 17, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Santee Cooper
  • $400 - $450 price range

Summary

Get ready for a full day of catfish action on South Carolina's famous Santee Cooper lakes. Our 8-hour trip takes you to the best spots on Lake Marion or Lake Moultrie, where monster cats are known to lurk. Whether you're new to fishing or a seasoned angler, our guides know these waters like the back of their hand. They'll set you up with top-notch gear and share tried-and-true techniques to help you land the big one. You'll be targeting trophy-sized catfish in some of the most productive waters around. It's a hands-on experience where you'll learn the ins and outs of catfishing while enjoying a day on the lake. With room for two guests, it's perfect for a fishing buddy or a one-on-one lesson. By the end of the day, you'll have stories to tell and hopefully some impressive catches to show for it. Don't miss your chance to fish these legendary lakes with a pro.
Premium 8-Hour Catfish Trip on Santee Cooper Lakes

Big Cat Showstoppers

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A blue catfish caught by a group of 5 people in Cross

Memorable catch on Santee Cooper—massive!

Four people enjoying a fishing trip at Cross

Loaded truck after a Santee Cooper catfish grind

Angler fishing at scenic Cross location

Solid catch on Santee Cooper—impressive!

Two anglers fishing in SC with big fish

Laid-out catch from Santee Cooper—epic!

3 striped bass caught on fishing trip

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Two anglers holding a big catch at a Cross location

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Four blue catfish caught in South Carolina fishing

Impressive catfish haul on Santee Cooper!

Two anglers enjoying a fishing trip in SC

Massive catfish on Santee Cooper—unreal!

Two fishermen enjoying their catch at the Cross location

Stacked cooler on Santee Cooper—loaded!

One angler with a fishing rod at the Cross location

Loaded cooler on Santee Cooper—productive!

A blue catfish caught by a group of 5 people in Cross

Memorable catch on Santee Cooper—massive!

Four people enjoying a fishing trip at Cross

Loaded truck after a Santee Cooper catfish grind

Angler fishing at scenic Cross location

Solid catch on Santee Cooper—impressive!

Two anglers fishing in SC with big fish

Laid-out catch from Santee Cooper—epic!

3 striped bass caught on fishing trip

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Two anglers holding a big catch at a Cross location

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Four blue catfish caught in South Carolina fishing

Impressive catfish haul on Santee Cooper!

Two anglers enjoying a fishing trip in SC

Massive catfish on Santee Cooper—unreal!

Two fishermen enjoying their catch at the Cross location

Stacked cooler on Santee Cooper—loaded!

One angler with a fishing rod at the Cross location

Loaded cooler on Santee Cooper—productive!

A blue catfish caught by a group of 5 people in Cross

Memorable catch on Santee Cooper—massive!

Four people enjoying a fishing trip at Cross

Loaded truck after a Santee Cooper catfish grind

Angler fishing at scenic Cross location

Solid catch on Santee Cooper—impressive!

Two anglers fishing in SC with big fish

Laid-out catch from Santee Cooper—epic!

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Catfish Bonanza: 8-Hour Santee Cooper Adventure

Get ready for a full day of rod-bending action on South Carolina's premier catfish lakes! Our 8-hour private charter takes you to the heart of Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie, where monster cats lurk in the depths. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, our expert guides at Bob's Guide Service Encore know exactly where to find the big ones. We're talking about a chance to land trophy-sized blue and channel cats that'll make your arms ache and give you bragging rights for years to come. So grab your lucky hat and let's hit the water for some serious Santee Cooper catfishing!

What to Expect on the Water

When you step aboard our fully-equipped boat, you're in for a treat. We'll cruise out to some of the most productive catfish spots on Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie, known collectively as the Santee Cooper lakes. These waters are legendary for producing massive catfish, and we know just how to find 'em. You'll spend a full 8 hours on the water, giving you plenty of time to soak your bait and wait for that heart-stopping moment when a big cat takes the line. Our guides are pros at reading the lake, using depth finders and years of experience to put you right where the action is. And don't worry about gear – we've got top-notch rods, reels, and bait all ready to go. Just bring your enthusiasm and maybe a snack or two, 'cause it's gonna be a long, exciting day!

Catfish Tactics 101

Fishing for catfish on Santee Cooper is an art form, and we've got it down to a science. We typically use a mix of techniques, from drift fishing over flats to anchoring near underwater structure. Depending on the conditions, we might be using cut bait, live bait, or even some secret concoctions that the cats just can't resist. We'll show you how to properly set up your rig, feel for that subtle catfish bite, and set the hook like a pro. And when that big blue cat starts peeling line off your reel, you'll be glad we're there to coach you through the fight. It's all about patience, timing, and a little bit of luck – but with our know-how, we'll stack the odds in your favor for landing a whopper.

Stories from the Lake

"My party and I had an awesome time. We caught fish and had great conversations. Captain Bobby knows the lake in detail and explained to us in detail how our day was going to go and he was spot on. Good job Captain Bobby. I'll see u again in October." - Donald

"Bobby provided a great trip. He put us on the fish and we caught plenty to take home with us. We plan on going back out with him in the future." - Ryan

"Great day on the lake. Caught some fish, top notch Capt. Good equipment and comfortable boat." - randy

Cats Worth Chasing

Channel Catfish: These whiskered warriors are a staple of Santee Cooper fishing. Typically ranging from 2 to 10 pounds, with some real bruisers pushing 20 pounds or more, channel cats are known for their hard fights and excellent table fare. They're active year-round but really turn on during the warmer months. Look for them around structure like submerged logs or near drop-offs. The thrill of feeling that distinctive channel cat "tap-tap" on your line never gets old!

Blue Catfish: Now we're talking about the true giants of Santee Cooper. Blue cats in these lakes can grow to monstrous proportions, with fish over 50 pounds not uncommon and the lake record tipping the scales at over 100 pounds! These behemoths prefer deeper water and can often be found in river channels or near underwater humps. Blue cats are most active in cooler months, making fall and winter prime time for trophy hunting. When a big blue takes your bait, hold on tight – you're in for the fight of your life!

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, if you're itching for a day of world-class catfishing, you can't do better than Santee Cooper. Our 8-hour trip gives you the best shot at landing some serious cats, all while soaking up the beauty of these incredible lakes. With our experienced guides, top-notch gear, and insider knowledge, we'll put you right in the catfish zone. Whether you're dreaming of that trophy blue cat or just want to fill the cooler with tasty channels, we've got you covered. Spaces fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Give us a call, and let's get you out on the water for a catfishing adventure you'll never forget. The big ones are waiting – are you ready to reel 'em in?

Customer Reviews

Bobbys Fishing Magic

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My party and I had an awesome time. We caught fish and had great conversations. Captain Bobby knows the lake in detail and explained to us in detail how our day was going to go and he was spot on. Good job Captain Bobby. I'll see u again in October.

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DB
Donald Butler

August 15, 2024

Guide to Great Fish

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We had a great time with Bobby. We fished hard and it was a beautiful day. Plan on coming back in the spring to try to catch some bigger ones and may even try out the Cat fishing too. Bobby is very knowledgeable and is a excellent guide. I would highly recommend him for all levels of fishermen.

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BW
Bob Ward

November 6, 2023

Top Notch Lake Day

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Was a excellent trip honestly. I heard fishing was tuff the day before, our guide put us on fish and now I got some fish to clean. Bring your own food and water of course maybe also a small cooler for those items. Guide did a great job and when we return I'm sure will get back on the water with him.

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MW
Michael White

May 18, 2025

Fish Fun Guaranteed

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Great day on the lake. Caught some fish, top notch Capt. Good equipment and comfortable boat.

RS
randy smith

May 16, 2024

Bobby Delivers Fish

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Had fun catching fish

MA
Matthew Alexander

May 30, 2024

Smooth Sailing Catch

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Bobby provided a great trip. He put us on the fish and we caught plenty to take home with us. We plan on going back out with him in the future.

RS
Ryan Spidel

April 5, 2024

Bobby Excels Again

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Great day on the lake. Caught some fish, top notch Capt. Good equipment and comfortable boat.

RS
randy smith

May 16, 2024

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Great trip. Bobby was excellent.

DC
Dwight Cribbs

June 13, 2024

Learn more about the animals

Blue Catfish

Channel catfish are the bread and butter of Santee Cooper catfishing. These whiskered critters usually run 2-10 pounds, but 20-pounders aren't unheard of. Look for them around structure in both shallow and deep water - they're not picky. Channels are active year-round but really turn on during summer nights. They'll eat just about anything, from worms to stinkbait, making them perfect for novice anglers. Folks love targeting channels for their reliability and good eating quality. These fish put up a decent scrap for their size, and their forked tails make them look like mini sharks when they surface. To boost your odds, try fishing creek mouths or dropoffs with nightcrawlers or cut bait. A local secret: cheese-based baits work wonders in warmer months. Don't let their size fool you - channels have sharp spines that can slice you up good. Handle with care, and you'll be rewarded with some of the tastiest fillets around.

Blue Catfish

Channel Catfish

Blue catfish are the giants of Santee Cooper, often reaching 25-46 inches and 80+ pounds. These slate-blue beasts love deep, muddy holes in lakes and rivers, especially near tidal creeks. They're opportunistic feeders, gobbling up anything from crawfish to smaller fish. Spring and fall are prime seasons when they're most active. Anglers chase blues for their sheer size and the thrill of the fight - these fish pull hard and don't give up easy. They're also tasty eating if you keep the smaller ones. To land a big blue, use fresh cut bait like herring or shad and let it sink to the bottom. Be patient and wait for solid tugs before setting the hook. One local trick: target areas where striped bass are feeding. Blues often hang out below, scavenging the leftovers. And don't forget sturdy gear - these bruisers can snap light tackle like twine. Bring heavy line, sharp hooks, and gloves for handling their slippery, spine-covered bodies.

Channel Catfish

About the Bob's Guide Service Encore

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 40

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 115

Ready for some serious catfishing action? Hop aboard for an 8-hour adventure on Lake Marion or Lake Moultrie, where monster cats lurk in the depths. These South Carolina hotspots are famous for producing whoppers, and our seasoned Santee Cooper guides know just where to find them. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the game, we've got you covered with top-notch gear and insider tips to help you land that trophy catch. Spend a full day on the water, soaking up the scenery and feeling the rush of battling big cats. Our guides are passionate about putting you on fish and making sure you have a blast. So grab a buddy, pack some snacks, and get ready for a day of rod-bending action on these legendary lakes. Who knows? You might just reel in the catfish of a lifetime!
Bob's Guide Service Encore

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Book a trip with Santee Cooper fishing guide now and get access to the best lake fishing around. We'll take care of all the details, including equipment and gear. Contact us today and experience an exciting, unforgettable day on the water.

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