Fishing Corbett Lake in Orangeburg County, South Carolina

• Overview

  Look for Corbett Lake in the Orangeburg County part of South Carolina. The setting is pine and hardwood on every side. With about 0.9 miles of edge, you can try several depths in one session. On our Orangeburg County list it sits near the top for size. Start from Gaston, 13 miles down the road. The nearest city of size is Columbia, 27 miles away. It sits near the edge of the county, so check which rules apply.

• Where to Fish on Corbett Lake

  Depth remains unrecorded, so treat the first session as a survey. Look for where the old bank line still shows under the surface. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Open occurrence data for the surrounding area lists blackbanded sunfish and lowland shiner. The list reflects reported sightings and surveys rather than what is stocked. Fish Corbett Lake where the bottom changes rather than where it looks deep.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warmest month averages 80°F, the coldest about 45°F. No part of the year shuts this water. March through May is the strongest run, with autumn a second stretch. April and May are the settled weeks, with October close behind. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Corbett Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  There is no clear statement anywhere on who can fish it. There is no mapped parking or launch nearby, which keeps numbers down. For the panfish, a small hook, a float and a piece of worm outfish everything fancy. Where access is informal, keep it that way by behaving. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. Caughman Lake sits 0.9 miles off and takes the overflow. For Corbett Lake in particular, ask before you travel.