Eutaw Creek, itself a maze of flooded cypress, is still another excellent largemouth producer in this area of the lake. Above the Interstate 95 bridge, Lake Marion begins to look much more like a swamp, and, indeed, several areas of the lake are designated as such. Among them are Wyboo Swamp, Stump Hole Swamp, and Rimini Swamp. Much of the striped bass fishing in the two lakes is done with live herring or cut bait, which is drifted down the river channels or into the deeper holes. Artificial lures, especially jigs, spoons, and occasionally topwater lures work the best during September and October when the fish school near the surface.
Guides sit in the open water scanning the horizon with binoculars, looking for diving gulls.
Once a flock is seen, fishermen race to the spot as quickly as possible to make a few casts before the stripers submerge. On really good days, the action may remain fairly constant for several hours. And when the stripers are hitting well, it's just a reminder of the role the Santee Cooper lakes have played in fishing history. Complete motel and restaurant facilities are available in Summerton, Santee, and Manning, as well as at a number of fishing camps around the lake. Camping is available at Santee State Park along the lake near Santee.