Saluda River
Saluda River
- Boat Ramps
- 10
- Access Points
- 26
- Species
- 25
The Saluda River is a diverse and productive waterway flowing through South Carolina, beginning in the Blue Ridge Mountains and continuing through the Piedmont before joining the Congaree River near Columbia. The river offers excellent fishing opportunities year-round thanks to its varied habitats and fish species. The waterway is divided into distinct sections - Upper, Middle, and Lower Saluda - each providing unique fishing experiences. The Lower Saluda, in particular, is renowned for its cold, clear water released from the bottom of Lake Murray Dam, creating a tailwater fishery that supports trout even during South Carolina's hot summers. With beautiful scenic surroundings and multiple access points, the Saluda River has become a cherished destination for both novice and experienced anglers looking to enjoy some of the best freshwater fishing in the state.
Species & education
Learn what type of fish are at Saluda River and what's needed to catch them.
Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities
Learn how to get on Saluda River. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.
Know where you can legally fish on Saluda River
See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.
South Carolina licenses and regulations
South Carolina Boating Regulations
When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.
South Carolina Fishing License
Children under the age of 16 are not required to purchase a hunting or fishing license unless they are engaged in commercial activity or using any non-game fish devices (traps, trotlines, gill nets, hoop nets, set hooks, jugs.)
South Carolina Fishing Regulations
This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.
South Carolina Stream Access Laws
In South Carolina, if a waterway can be floated and used as a public highway, it is navigable and open to recreational use up to the high water mark.
Take Saluda River with you
The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.
Use the map without signal
Download the map around Saluda River to use it offline when coverage drops.
Log your catches here
Keep a private fishing journal for Saluda River to find where and when fish are biting for you.
Get the onWater Fish app
Free on iOS and Android
Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)
See the best times to fish Saluda River and check the forecast before you go.
SALUDA RIVER NEAR COLUMBIA, SC
All Flow Stations
Saluda River fishing guides
Book a trip with a local fishing guide through Guidesly.

Fishing near Saluda River
Explore South Carolina waters
Top fishing waters
Popular Cities
Loading popular cities...
Explore near Saluda River
Fish species
Fishing spots
- Lower Pelzer boat ramp
- Higgins Bridge Boat Ramp
- Dr James A Timmerman Boat Ramp
- Ware Shoals/Irvin Pitts Park Hand Launch
- Saluda Shoals Lower Boat Ramp
- Saluda Dam Road boat ramp
- Hope Ferry Boat Ramp
- Saluda Shoals Park Boat Ramp
- Irvin Pitts Park boat ramp
- Kempsons Bridge Boat Ramp
- Dolly Cooper Park Access Hand Launch
- Beacham Road Access Hand Launch
- All 38 spots
Nearby waters
More in South Carolina
Smarter Fishing Starts in the App.
onWater Fish gives you everything you need to plan smarter, fish better, and own every trip from first cast to last.















































