What You'll Find at Lazaretto Creek

Lazaretto Creek is a tidal saltwater creek on Georgia's coast near St. Simons Island, known for redfish, spotted seatrout, and flounder in shallow flats and deeper channel water. The creek runs roughly north-south and connects to the larger estuarine system around St. Simons Sound, making it accessible to both wade fishers and boat anglers depending on tide and season. The water is brackish to full salt, and the creek bottom shifts between mud, sand, and oyster shell—conditions that hold the species most anglers target here.

The creek's name comes from the historic quarantine station that once operated on its banks, but today it's known as a productive fishing ground that doesn't draw the same crowds as some other Georgia coastal creeks. That makes it worth considering if you're planning a trip to the St. Simons area and want solid fishing without fighting for space.

Key Takeaways

  • Lazaretto Creek holds redfish, spotted seatrout, and flounder year-round, with the strongest fishing from spring through fall.
  • Access is by boat only—there is no public shore access, so you'll need to launch from St. Simons Island or nearby ramps.
  • Tides control where fish hold and how you can reach them; incoming tides push fish onto shallow flats, while outgoing tides concentrate them in channels.
  • Shallow-water techniques like poling or wading work in the flats, but deeper sections require standard boat fishing with live bait or artificial lures.
  • Georgia saltwater fishing regulations require a saltwater license and set specific size and bag limits for each species.

Best Seasons and Water Conditions

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are the most reliable times to fish Lazaretto Creek. Water temperatures warm enough in spring to trigger feeding, and redfish move into the shallows to spawn. Fall brings cooler water and active fish preparing for winter, and the creek's narrow channels concentrate baitfish that draw larger trout and redfish.

Summer (June through August) can be productive early and late in the day, but midday heat pushes fish into deeper water and makes wade fishing uncomfortable. Winter fishing is possible but slower; fish move to deeper channels and feed less frequently as water temperatures drop below 50 degrees.

Tides matter more than season at Lazaretto Creek. Incoming tides flood the shallow flats and push redfish into water 1 to 3 feet deep, where they hunt for crabs and shrimp. Outgoing tides drain the flats and concentrate fish in the main channel, where they're easier to locate but often deeper and less aggressive. Plan your trip around a tide that matches your technique—wade fishing works best on incoming tides, while boat fishing the channel works on any tide.

How to Access Lazaretto Creek

Lazaretto Creek has no public shore access. All fishing requires a boat, and the nearest public boat ramps are on St. Simons Island. The St. Simons Public Boat Ramp on Lanier Avenue is the most direct launch point—it's a two-lane concrete ramp with parking and costs a small daily fee. From there, the creek is roughly 2 to 3 miles north by water, depending on which section you're targeting.

If you don't own a boat, several charter services operate out of St. Simons and regularly fish Lazaretto Creek. A half-day charter typically runs 4 to 6 hours and includes the captain's knowledge of current conditions, tackle, and bait. Charter costs vary but are generally higher than launching your own boat.

Private boat ramps also exist at some marinas and resorts on St. Simons, though access may be limited to guests or members. Call ahead before launching at any ramp you haven't used before.

What Species to Target and How

Redfish are the most sought species in Lazaretto Creek. They're present year-round but most aggressive in spring and fall. Fish the shallow flats on incoming tides with live shrimp, live mullet, or artificial lures like topwater plugs and soft plastics in natural colors. Redfish in the creek typically run 18 to 28 inches, though larger fish move through during spring spawning. Georgia's minimum size is 18 inches and the bag limit is 5 per day.

Spotted seatrout (speckled trout) school in deeper water and channel edges. They respond well to live shrimp, small live mullet, and soft plastic lures fished slowly along structure. Trout are most active on incoming tides and early morning. Georgia's minimum size for trout is 12 inches and the bag limit is 10 per day.

Flounder hold on the bottom in deeper sections and channel edges. Fish live mullet or shrimp on the bottom, or use soft plastics dragged slowly along structure. Flounder bite year-round but are most reliable in spring and fall. Georgia's minimum size is 12 inches and the bag limit is 10 per day.

Tackle and Bait Recommendations

A medium-power spinning rod (6 to 7 feet) with 15- to 20-pound braided line works well for most Lazaretto Creek fishing. Pair it with a 12- to 20-pound fluorocarbon leader to handle oyster shells and reduce visibility in clear water. If you're targeting larger redfish or expect to encounter bigger fish, step up to 20- to 30-pound braid and a heavier leader.

Live bait is the most reliable choice: live shrimp (1 to 3 inches) work for all three species, and live mullet (2 to 4 inches) attract larger redfish and trout. Buy bait from local tackle shops in St. Simons the morning of your trip—they'll know what's working and can advise on current conditions. Artificial lures also work: topwater plugs, soft plastics (3 to 5 inches), and small spoons in silver or gold all produce redfish and trout.

Bring a net, a pair of pliers, and a small cooler. Oyster shells are sharp and common, so wear gloves and watch your hands when handling fish or handling line near structure.

Regulations and Licensing

Georgia requires all saltwater anglers to hold a valid saltwater fishing license. You can purchase a 3-day, 7-day, or annual license through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website or at local tackle shops. The license is inexpensive and takes minutes to obtain online.

Size and bag limits are set by species: redfish (18-inch minimum, 5 per day), spotted seatrout (12-inch minimum, 10 per day), and flounder (12-inch minimum, 10 per day). These limits are enforced by the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division, and violations carry fines. Keep a measuring device in your boat and measure fish before keeping them.

No special permits are required to fish Lazaretto Creek itself, but the St. Simons Public Boat Ramp charges a daily launch fee. Some private ramps may require membership or guest passes.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Ignoring the tide is the most common mistake. Anglers who fish Lazaretto Creek without checking tide times often find themselves on dry flats or in water too deep to reach fish. Download a tide app or check the NOAA tide tables for St. Simons Sound before you launch. Plan your fishing window around the tide that matches your target area and technique.

Fishing too fast is another frequent error. Redfish and trout in shallow water are easily spooked by noise and fast-moving lures. Pole quietly, cast ahead of fish, and work lures slowly. If you're not getting bites, slow down further—most anglers fish too aggressively in creeks.

Underestimating oyster shell damage is also common. The creek bottom is rough, and braided line frays quickly against shell. Inspect your line regularly and replace it if you see damage. A leader change takes 30 seconds and prevents losing fish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wade fish Lazaretto Creek?

Wading is possible in shallow sections during incoming tides, but access is limited because there's no public shore. If you have a boat, you can anchor in shallow water and wade the flats. Wear wading boots—oyster shells are sharp and the bottom is uneven. Incoming tides work best because they push fish into wadeable depths.

What's the best time of day to fish here?

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) and late afternoon (2 hours before sunset to dark) are most productive. Fish are more active in lower light and cooler water. Midday fishing is slower, especially in summer. Tide timing matters more than clock time—a good incoming tide at noon will outfish a poor tide at sunrise.

Do I need a guide to fish Lazaretto Creek?

No, but a guide is helpful if you're unfamiliar with the creek's layout, current conditions, or tidal patterns. Local knowledge saves time and increases your chances of finding fish. If you're confident reading a map and understanding tides, you can fish on your own. Charter captains are available if you want professional instruction.

What should I do if I hook a large redfish?

Keep your rod tip up and maintain steady pressure. Redfish are strong and will run toward structure—don't let them reach oyster beds or marsh grass. Use your drag to absorb runs rather than setting it too tight. If the fish reaches structure, you may lose it, so stay alert and be ready to follow the fish if needed.

Is Lazaretto Creek crowded?

It's less crowded than some other Georgia coastal creeks, especially compared to popular spots near Brunswick. You'll encounter other anglers on weekends and during peak season (spring and fall), but you can usually find space. Weekday fishing is quieter. Early morning also means fewer boats regardless of season.