Enjoy a day of Fishing on Lake Murray

Day One: Accommodations and Arrival

If you're looking to stay in the heart of Columbia, the Sheraton located on Main Street in the downtown area is your best bet. The Sheraton Columbia Downtown is located in the gorgeous, historic Palmetto Bank Building, which was built in 1913 and was once the tallest building in the city. If you're looking for accommodations that offer a more intimate setting, try the Chestnut Cottage, where you can enjoy some peace and quiet amid one of the state's largest cities.

After you've settled in, explored the city some and have taken in the sites, make your way to Bourbon in Downtown Columbia - located right down the street from the State Capital Building. Their menu boasts everything from duck confit gumbo to eggplant jambalaya, and the owner, Kristian Niemi, is known for mixing a mean cocktail. But make sure you turn in early - tomorrow's wakeup call is going to be an early one.

Day Two: Fishing with Striper Mike

Wake up, grab a quick breakfast and get ready for an exciting day of fishing on Lake Murray with Captain Mike – also known as Striper Mike. He’ll have everything you need for a successful day of fishing - equipment, knowledge and plenty of good conversation. But before you head out, make sure you’re prepared with a South Carolina fishing license.

Lake Murray covers 50,000 acres and borders four different counties in South Carolina, so there are plenty of ideal spots for you to drop a line.

Striper Mike has been fishing on Lake Murray for more than 30 years. As his name suggests, you can expect to catch striped bass while you're on the lake, with typical catches ranging from 4 to 30 pounds. These bass also happen to be the official State Fish of South Carolina, and they're nocturnal, so your best bet for catching them is to get out there early enough to see the sunrise.