With the combination of salt and freshwater ponds, Brays offers a very unique on-site fishery. The salt ponds adjoin the tidal salt marsh and are stocked by mother nature during the ebb and flood of the tides. Huge redfish (up to 40 pounds!) have been caught on fly and spinning gear, as well as speckled trout, flounder, black drum and even seasonal baby tarpon. These salt ponds are grandfathered into the property and are a treasure that developers simply could not replicate today.
We have approximately 20 fresh water ponds which are carefully managed to ensure optimal conditions for the various species of fish. Largemouth bass are the primary focus with fish in the 2-6 lb range being relatively common and each year several lunkers are caught in the double digit range. In addition, hybrid stripers, a variety of bream, crappie and catfish can be targeted in the on-site ponds. The beauty of this variety is that it will challenge and excite the most ardent angler, while providing great opportunities for youngsters to learn the ropes.
Beyond fly and spin fishing, casting classes are regularly scheduled to give owners the opportunity to master the art of fly fishing or learn the basics of spin casting. Captain Bryan and Captain Jess are eager to share their knowledge, as are many owners who have honed their angling skills.
Crabbing can be enjoyed through most of the year, with blue crabs occurring abundantly in our local waters. The process of luring a crab with a string and a chicken neck never gets old, and the rewards of a crab boil accompanied by an ice cold beer or a crisp glass of wine are what it's all about! In the summer through the fall, the shrimp appear in our creeks in vast numbers, and our naturalist and boating department staff are very helpful in teaching folks how to throw a cast net in order to harvest fresh local shrimp.
The concept of “hook to table” takes on an extra dimension here at Brays – harvesting nature’s bounty from the ocean and the fields to be served fresh on our tables. For those who are challenged in the kitchen, our chefs are happy to help in preparing freshly caught seafood for you!
Outside of fishing on-site, we also have a full-service boating department which provides community rental boats, private boat storage and care, launching, cleaning and fueling services, as well as guided fishing trips. For those wishing to get on the water and explore the South Carolina lowcountry rivers and creeks, there are plenty of options.