Fishing

Savannah is a saltwater angler’s paradise, rich in trout, flounder, and king and Spanish mackerel. Offshore there’s a fair amount of deep-sea action, including large grouper, white and blue marlin, wahoo, snapper, sea bass, and big amberjack near some of the many offshore wrecks.

Perhaps the best-known local angler is Captain Judy Helmey, a.k.a. “Miss Judy.” In addition to her frequent and entertaining newspaper columns, she runs a variety of well-regarded charters out of Miss Judy Charters (912/897-2478, www.missjudycharters.com [1]). Four-hour trips start at $500. To get there, go west on U.S. 80, take a right onto Bryan Woods Road, a left onto Johnny Mercer Boulevard, a right onto Wilmington Island Way, and a right down the dirt lane at her sign.

Another highly regarded local fishing charter is the Tybee-based Amick’s Deep Sea Fishing (912/897-6759, www.amicksdeepseafishing.com [2]). Captain Steve Amick and crew run offshore charters starting at $110 per person daily. Go east on U.S. 80 and turn right just past the Lazaretto Creek Bridge; boats are behind Café Loco.

Another charter service is offered at Lazaretto Creek Marina (1 U.S. 80, 912/786-5848, www.tybeedolphins.com [3]). Half- and full-day inshore and offshore fishing charters are available, starting at $250 for four hours. Go east on Highway 80 and turn right just past the Lazaretto Creek Bridge. Turn right at the dead end.

Shallow-water fly fishers might want to contact Savannah Fly Fishing Charters (56 Sassafras Trail, 912/308-3700, www.savannahfly.com [4]). Captain Scott Wagner takes half- and full-day charters both day and night from Savannah [5] all the way down to St. Simons Island. Half-day rate starts at $300. Book early.