What You'll Find at Wassaw

Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge is a 10,000-acre barrier island about 15 miles southeast of downtown Savannah, accessible only by boat. The refuge protects salt marsh, maritime forest, and open water habitat, and it draws anglers for redfish, spotted seatrout, and flounder in the shallow creeks and flats surrounding the island. The refuge itself is closed to public entry, but the waters around it—particularly the creeks on the western side facing the mainland—hold fish year-round and are open to fishing under refuge regulations.

The appeal here is the combination of shallow-water structure and minimal development. Unlike many coastal areas near Savannah, Wassaw's surrounding waters have stayed relatively wild. Tidal creeks wind through spartina grass, oyster bars create hard bottom, and the marsh edge transitions to deeper channels where larger fish move with the tide. Most anglers fish from boats, though wade fishing is possible in certain areas during low tide.

Key Takeaways

  • Wassaw's surrounding creeks hold redfish and spotted seatrout year-round, with the best fishing typically from April through November.
  • You must reach the refuge by private boat or charter; there is no ferry service or public dock on the island itself.
  • Fishing is allowed in the waters around the refuge, but the island interior is closed to all public entry.
  • Tidal movement is critical—fish feed most actively during the last two hours of incoming tide and the first two hours of the outgoing tide.
  • A Georgia fishing license is required; saltwater stamp requirements depend on your residency and the species you target.

Getting There and What You Need

Wassaw has no public boat ramp on the island itself. Most anglers launch from Savannah-area ramps and run 30 to 45 minutes to reach the refuge waters. The closest public ramp is at Lazaretto Creek, near the Isle of Hope south of Savannah, which puts you roughly 20 minutes from the refuge's western creeks. Other options include ramps at Skidaway Island State Park and various private marinas in the Savannah area.

If you don't own a boat, charter captains based in Savannah regularly fish Wassaw's creeks. A half-day charter typically costs between $300 and $500, depending on the captain and season. Charter services can be found through the Savannah Convention and Visitors Bureau or by calling local tackle shops.

You'll need a Georgia fishing license and a saltwater stamp if you're targeting saltwater species. Residents pay one fee for the license and stamp combined; non-residents pay a separate daily or annual rate. Check the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website for current pricing and any species-specific regulations before you go.

Best Times to Fish and What Bites

Redfish are the primary target around Wassaw, especially in the shallow creeks and marsh edges. They feed most actively during tidal movement—the last two hours of rising tide and the first two hours of falling tide. Spring (April through May) and fall (September through November) are peak seasons, though redfish are present year-round. Spotted seatrout move into the creeks during warmer months and are most reliable from May through September. Flounder hold along the channel edges and deeper holes, particularly in summer and early fall.

Live shrimp is the standard bait for all three species. Artificial lures—spoons, soft plastics, and topwater plugs—work well for redfish and trout, especially in shallow water where sight-casting is possible. Early morning and late afternoon typically produce better than midday, though tidal timing often matters more than time of day.

Refuge Regulations and Restrictions

The refuge itself—the island and its interior—is closed to public entry year-round. This protects nesting sea turtles, shorebirds, and other wildlife. Fishing is allowed in the waters surrounding the refuge, but you cannot land on the island, wade into the marsh interior, or enter any marked restricted areas.

Motorized boats are permitted in the open water and main channels. Some narrow creeks and shallow areas may have speed restrictions or seasonal closures; check with the refuge office or your charter captain before launching. The refuge office is located on the mainland and can provide current information on any temporary closures or special regulations.

Tides, Weather, and Safety Considerations

Tidal range around Wassaw is typically 6 to 8 feet, which dramatically changes water depth and fish location. Low tide can leave some creeks nearly impassable, while high tide floods the marsh and spreads fish across a wider area. Most anglers plan trips around the tide schedule, fishing the creeks during mid-tide and moving to deeper channels as water drops.

Weather on the Georgia coast can shift quickly. Summer brings afternoon thunderstorms and heat; fall and spring offer more stable conditions but occasional cold fronts. Winter is fishable but cold and windy. Always check the marine forecast before launching, and let someone know where you're going and when you expect to return. The waters around Wassaw are relatively protected compared to open ocean, but they're still tidal and subject to strong currents in narrow channels.

Tackle and Technique for Wassaw Waters

A 7- to 8-foot medium-power spinning rod with 15- to 20-pound braided line is standard for redfish and trout in these shallow creeks. Fluorocarbon leader (20 to 30 pounds) reduces visibility in clear water. For sight-casting to tailing redfish, a longer rod (8 to 9 feet) and lighter line (12 to 15 pounds) give better casting distance and presentation.

Redfish respond to slow, deliberate retrieves and will often follow a lure before committing. Cast ahead of moving fish and let the lure sit momentarily before twitching it. Spotted seatrout are more aggressive and will chase faster-moving lures, especially topwater plugs in shallow water. Flounder require patience—cast near structure and let the lure sit, then work it slowly along the bottom.

Nearby Alternatives and Related Fishing

If Wassaw is crowded or conditions aren't right, the Savannah area has other shallow-water options. Ossabaw Island, just north of Wassaw, offers similar habitat and is also a wildlife refuge with fishing allowed in surrounding waters. Calibogue Sound near Hilton Head (about 45 minutes south) holds the same species and is more developed with more charter options. For a different experience, the Savannah River upstream from the city holds largemouth bass and catfish in freshwater and brackish habitat.

Local tackle shops in Savannah—such as those near the waterfront—stock live shrimp, tackle, and current information about what's biting. They can also recommend charter captains and provide tide tables specific to Wassaw's creeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wade fish around Wassaw?

Yes, wading is allowed in the open water and main channels around the refuge, but not in the marsh interior or on the island itself. Low tide exposes mudflats and shallow creeks where wading is possible, though the bottom can be soft and uneven. Always wear wading boots and check the tide schedule before entering the water.

What's the difference between fishing Wassaw and other Savannah creeks?

Wassaw's waters are less developed and less pressured than creeks closer to the city, which often means larger fish and more consistent action. The trade-off is the 30- to 45-minute boat ride and the need for a seaworthy vessel. Creeks closer to Savannah are easier to reach but see more fishing pressure.

Do I need a guide to fish Wassaw?

A guide is not required, but it's helpful if you're unfamiliar with the area. The creeks are navigable with a GPS or chart, but tidal currents and shallow water create hazards for inexperienced boaters. A charter captain knows the best spots, current conditions, and can handle navigation while you focus on fishing.

What's the best season to visit?

April through November offers the most consistent fishing and the most comfortable weather. Spring and fall are ideal—warm enough to be pleasant but not so hot that midday fishing shuts down. Summer is productive but hot and prone to afternoon storms. Winter is fishable but cold and windy.

Can I fish at night around Wassaw?

Night fishing is allowed in the open water and channels, though it's less common than daytime fishing. Redfish and trout feed at night, especially around structure and in shallow water. Bring a good light and be aware of navigation hazards in the dark. Always file a float plan with someone on shore.