Artificial Baits February

For inshore fishing in Charleston, South Carolina, especially targeting flounder in late winter like right now—February 2025—the go-to artificial bait is a soft plastic paddle tail or jerk shad rigged on a jighead. Local anglers swear by a few standout options that mimic the baitfish and shrimp flounder is key in on this time of year.

The Z-Man MinnowZ or PaddlerZ in a 3- to 4-inch size is a top pick. These baits have a natural swimming action thanks to their paddle tails, and they’re made of tough ElaZtech material that holds up to flounder’s sharp teeth. Go for natural colors like “Houdini” (a reddish-brown shrimp vibe), “Pearl,” or “New Penny” to match the muddy estuaries and tidal creeks around Charleston. Pair it with a ¼- to ½-ounce jighead—something like a red or chartreuse Z-Man Trout Eye Jighead—to get it down to the bottom where flounder lurk. The heavier weight helps in winter when you need to combat tidal currents and keep it low.

Another killer option is the Gulp! Shrimp or Gulp! Jerk Shad by Berkley. The 3-inch shrimp in “Natural Shrimp” or “New Penny” is a favorite because it’s infused with scent, which is a game-changer when the water’s cold and flounder are less aggressive. Rig it on a ⅜-ounce jighead and work it with short hops or a slow drag along the bottom—let it sit for a few seconds between moves to tempt a strike. The scent gives you an edge over unscented plastics, especially in murky water.

Locals also like the DOA Shrimp or Deadly Dudley Terror Tail for versatility. The DOA in “Near Clear” or “Gold Glitter” mimics a shrimp skipping along, while the Terror Tail’s paddle kicks up just enough commotion to draw attention. Stick to a ¼-ounce jighead unless the current’s ripping, then bump it up.

The key with all these is to fish them slow and low. Charleston’s inshore waters—think Wando River, Ashley River, or the harbor flats—have soft bottoms where flounder bury up, so bounce the bait to puff some mud and trigger that ambush instinct. If you’re near oyster bars or creek mouths, let it sink right into the strike zone. These artificials consistently outshine others for flounder this time of year, and they’ll also pull in redfish or trout as a bonus.