Old Dead River near Red Hill: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Old Dead River lies within the bounds of Horry County, South Carolina. Salt water lies 33 miles off. At roughly 7 acres, the whole thing is within casting reach of a single walk. It is low-lying compared with other South Carolina water we list. Red Hill sits 4.5 miles from here and is the nearest stop. Mullins is 9.8 miles and Marion 12 miles. Rules can differ a short way off, since the county line is near.

• Where to Fish on Old Dead River

  The records we hold are silent on depth, so plan to find it yourself. Still water like this holds fish on the edges rather than out in the open. Weed, then depth: that is the order to fish a water of this kind. Public wildlife records from this area list American eel, banded sunfish and blackbanded sunfish. Several of these carry legal protection or closed seasons; the rulebook comes before the rod. On Old Dead River the first feature you find is usually worth a session.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Average temperature peaks around 80°F in July and bottoms out near 45°F in January. No part of the year shuts this water. Late winter and spring fish steadiest here. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. Plan around that when you fish Old Dead River. Fish feed harder before a change in weather than after it.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public sources are silent on who controls the bank. Mapping shows a ramp about half a mile from the shore. The nearest car park we can see is half a mile out, so expect a walk with your gear. For the panfish, a small hook, a float and a piece of worm outfish everything fancy. Rules for this water may differ from the county norm. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. If the gate is shut, Deep Lake at 0.2 miles is the nearest alternative. Confirm before you fish Old Dead River.