As of September 23, 2024, the Savannah River, spanning across Georgia and South Carolina, is poised for an exciting day of fishing, despite some challenging weather conditions.

**Weather Conditions:**
Expect a warm day with temperatures in the mid-80s, typical for this time of year. However, be prepared for occasional gusts of wind, especially in the late afternoon, with wind speeds ranging from 10 to 15 mph. There is a slight chance of scattered thunderstorms, so it's wise to keep an eye on the sky and be ready to seek shelter if necessary.

**Water Conditions:**
The water level in the Savannah River and its associated lakes, such as Clarks Hill Lake, is slightly below normal. Clarks Hill Lake, for instance, is currently 4.8 feet below the 330-foot mark. Water temperatures are in the mid-80s, and clarity is generally clear, although some areas may have a light stain due to recent rainfall.

**Best Fishing Spots:**
For bass enthusiasts, the main lake points and humps on Clarks Hill Lake are hotspots. Fish are feeding and holding in 15 to 20 feet of water, awaiting the cooling of the water. Use topwater baits like chrome Gunfish or Evergreen 125, and white Zoom Super Fluke or Spro Sashimmy. Later in the day, focus on the backs of creeks and drains with wood in the water, using buzzbaits.

In the Savannah River itself, particularly around Augusta Shoals, target largemouth, smallmouth, and Bartram's bass. These areas are known for their challenging waters and hidden hotspots. Use lures that mimic baitfish, such as flukes and crawfish imitations, especially around shoal areas.

**Bait and Tackle Recommendations:**
For bass, Carolina rigs with Zoom mini lizards and 6-inch lizards in green pumpkin are effective. Add some Jack’s Juice garlic scent and Spike It red dye for extra attraction. Jigs and six-inch U Tail worms also work well.

For redfish and trout in the coastal areas of the Savannah River, live shrimp under a cork or a pink D.O.A. Shrimp soaked in Gulp Alive Shrimp spray are highly recommended. Topwater action with a red-and-white MirrOlure can be very productive, especially during the last hour before dark.

**Fish Activity:**
Bass are transitioning to deeper waters as the month progresses, but early morning and late evening periods offer good opportunities for topwater fishing. Redfish are active in various depths, from 1 foot to 20 feet, around structures like trees, docks, and oyster shells. Trout are biting well on incoming tides, with live shrimp under a slip-cork rig being the best bait.

**Local Events and Regulations:**
There are no major local fishing events scheduled for today, but it's important to check the current catch limits and any closures. For instance, the Georgia DNR encourages anglers to drop off fish carcasses at designated locations to help with age and growth studies.

**Tips from Local Anglers:**
Guide Wendell Wilson advises that with the slight cooling in September, striped bass are likely to move to mid-lake flats where they can be caught on down-lined herring. For crappie, focus on deeper brush and timber initially, but be prepared for them to move to shallower areas as temperatures drop.

**Best Times for Fishing:**
The best times for fishing today are early morning and late evening. The early morning period is ideal for topwater fishing, while the late evening offers excellent opportunities for catching redfish and trout. Be flexible and move around to find feeding fish, especially considering the tide swings in coastal areas.

With the right gear, knowledge of the water, and a bit of luck, today promises to be a rewarding day on the Savannah River. Enjoy your fishing adventure