Clarks Hill Recreation Area - McCormick, SC Fishing Report on 10th Jul, 2025

Striped bass fishing on Clarks Hill Lake is heating up, with solid action for anglers targeting early morning and late evening bites. The best success has been coming around first light, especially near the dam and lower lake channels, where schools of stripers are pushing baitfish to the surface. Topwater plugs, live herring, and swimbaits have been the go-to choices, with plenty of surface explosions adding excitement to each cast.

Mid-morning, the bite tends to slow down, but deeper trolling or downlines with live bait have been productive around 30 to 50 feet. Anglers using electronics to locate suspended fish are having consistent success. The action has been steady, with fish ranging from 5 to 15 pounds and the occasional trophy pushing higher.

Windier days have helped concentrate the bait, creating more defined feeding zones near long points, submerged humps, and the mouths of major creeks. While some boats are finding fish in open water, those willing to move around and stay mobile are finding the most consistent action.

Overall, Clarks Hill Lake continues to offer strong striped bass opportunities. Whether you're chasing them on artificials or soaking live bait, the current conditions are ideal for putting a bend in your rod and bringing some heavy hitters to the boat.