Winter fishing off the coast of South Carolina is arduous. With gale warnings and high seas common in December, January and February, commercial fishermen must make tough choices between their livelihoods and their safety. But, what is a gale anyway? Gale warnings are issued for marine waters when winds range from 39–54 miles per hour or 34–47 knots. To contrast, tropical storm force winds range between 39–73 miles per hour or 34–63 knots. Fishing in a gale with the accompanying high seas (6- 15 feet) is like trying to plant a garden during a tropical storm! Outside of gales or storms, wintertime fishing consistently means 20—35 knot winds and 6-8 foot seas which are hard conditions in which to earn a living and bring fresh fish to the dock. To maximize the safety of our crew and vessel, we watch the weather closely and fish during the relative calm days of winter. Interested in tracking the offshore forecast? click here.
