Florida Redfish Guide

Catching redfish in Florida is a popular pastime among anglers, and for good reason. The state’s diverse coastal waters offer a wealth of habitats for these prized game fish, from shallow bays and estuaries to deep channels and offshore wrecks. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to successfully target and catch redfish in Florida.

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about catching redfish in Florida, including the best lures and bait to use, the most productive times and locations to fish, and the behaviors and habits of redfish. We will also provide tips and tricks for selecting the right fishing gear, reading weather and water conditions, and practicing ethical catch-and-release techniques.

Whether you prefer fishing from a boat or casting from shore, this guide will offer a variety of strategies for targeting redfish in different environments. From sight-fishing in shallow flats to trolling offshore, we will cover the most effective techniques for catching redfish in Florida’s diverse coastal waters.

So grab your fishing gear and get ready for an unforgettable adventure as we explore the best ways to catch redfish in the beautiful state of Florida.

What is a Redfish

Redfish, also known as red drum, are a type of saltwater fish found in coastal waters of the southeastern United States, including Florida:

Appearance: Redfish are bronze or reddish in color with a distinctive black spot near their tail. They have a stout body with a sloping forehead and a slightly concave tail. They can grow up to 60 inches in length and weigh up to 90 pounds, although most fish caught by anglers are between 18 and 27 inches long.

Behavior: They are known for their strength and fighting ability, making them a popular game fish. They are bottom feeders and feed on a variety of prey, including crabs, shrimp, and small fish. They are most active during the cooler months, from September to May, and are often found in shallow waters near oyster beds and mangrove shorelines.

Redfish are social fish and are often found in schools. They communicate with each other using sound, which they produce by vibrating their swim bladder. They are also known for their ability to tolerate a wide range of salinity levels, which allows them to move between freshwater and saltwater habitats.

During the breeding season, which occurs from late summer to early fall, males will make drumming sounds by contracting their abdominal muscles to attract females. After mating, females will lay their eggs in shallow, grassy areas where they will hatch in about 24 hours. Juveniles will then spend the first few years of their lives in these shallow habitats before moving to deeper waters as they grow larger.

Where to find redfish

Redfish can be found just about anywhere along the coast, from inlets and estuaries to offshore reefs and wrecks. However, some areas are more productive than others, and knowing where to look can greatly improve your chances of a productive day.

Saltwater Marsh

Saltwater marshes are shallow estuarine environments that are characterized by the presence of grasses, reeds, and other vegetation that grows in a mixture of fresh and saltwater. Here are some tips on how to find redfish in saltwater marshes:

Look for Structure: Redfish often congregate around structure in saltwater marshes, such as oyster beds, channels, and drop-offs. These areas provide cover and food for redfish and make them more likely to be found in these locations. Use a fishfinder to locate areas with structure, or look for areas with visible signs of baitfish activity, such as jumping mullet or nervous water.
Pay Attention to the Tides: The tides play a significant role in redfish behavior in saltwater marshes. Redfish are often more active during the incoming and outgoing tides, as the movement of water can bring food sources to them. Look for areas where the water is moving, such as channels and drop-offs, and fish these areas during the incoming and outgoing tides.
Look for Signs of Redfish Activity: Redfish often give away their presence in saltwater marshes by creating wakes, tailing, or popping their heads out of the water to feed. Look for these signs of activity and fish these areas using lures or bait that mimic the prey they are feeding on, such as shrimp or crabs.
Use Polarized Sunglasses: Polarized sunglasses can help reduce glare and improve visibility in the water, making it easier to spot tailing redfish. The tail of a redfish is typically a distinct copper or bronze color, which can stand out against the sandy or grassy bottom. Look for this coloration when scanning the water for tailing redfish.
Use Weedless Lures and Bait: The vegetation in saltwater marshes can make fishing challenging, as it can easily snag and tangle fishing lines. Use weedless lures and bait, such as weedless hooks or soft plastics rigged weedless, to reduce the risk of getting snagged in the vegetation.
Move Around: Redfish in saltwater marshes can be mobile and move around frequently in search of food and cover. If you’re not having any luck in one area, move around until you find an area with more activity.

In conclusion, finding redfish in saltwater marshes requires some knowledge and strategy, but with the right approach, you can increase your chances of success. Look for areas with structure, pay attention to the tides, and use weedless lures and bait.

Most salt marshes in florida are aquatic preserves and do allow fishing, but be sure to read up on the regulations. Here is a list of saltwater marshes in florida

Bridges and Dams

Eddies are areas of water that flow in the opposite direction of the main current, creating a circular flow of water. A good example is the Guana River Dam. Here are some tips on how to find redfish in eddies around bridges and dams:

Look for Areas with Structure: Redfish often congregate around structure, such as bridge pilings and dam spillways, in eddies. These areas provide cover and food for redfish and make them more likely to be found in these locations. Use a fishfinder to locate areas with structure or look for areas with visible signs of baitfish activity.
Pay Attention to Water Flow: The flow of water around bridges and dams can change depending on the tide, wind, and other factors. Look for areas where the water is moving in a circular motion or where there is a noticeable change in the direction of the flow. Redfish are often found in areas where the water is swirling, as it can bring food sources to them.
Fish with Live or Cut Bait: Redfish are known to feed on a variety of prey, including shrimp, crabs, and small fish. Use live or cut bait that mimics the prey they are feeding on, and fish it using a Carolina rig or other similar rig that allows the bait to move naturally in the water.
Use Jigs and Soft Plastics: Jigs and soft plastics can also be effective in eddies around bridges and dams. Use a jig or soft plastic that matches the color and size of the prey that redfish are feeding on, and fish it slowly along the bottom.
Pay Attention to the Time of Day: Redfish can be more active during certain times of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. Fish during these times for the best chance of success.

In conclusion, finding redfish in eddies around bridges and dams requires some knowledge and strategy, but with the right approach, you can increase your chances of success. Look for areas with structure, pay attention to water flow, and use live or cut bait, jigs, or soft plastics. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to catching redfish in the eddies around bridges and dams.

Inlets

Catching redfish in inlets can be a thrilling experience for anglers of all levels. Inlets are areas where the ocean meets a bay or river, creating a unique habitat for a variety of fish, including redfish. Sebastian Inlet and Ponce Inlet are 2 of the best known redfish inlets. Here are some tips on how to catch redfish in inlets:

Look for Structure: Redfish often congregate around structure in inlets, such as rock piles, jetties, and drop-offs. These areas provide cover and food for redfish and make them more likely to be found in these locations. Use a fishfinder to locate areas with structure, or look for areas with visible signs of baitfish activity.
Pay Attention to the Tides: The tides play a significant role in redfish behavior in inlets. Redfish are often more active during the incoming and outgoing tides, as the movement of water can bring food sources to them. Look for areas where the water is moving, such as channels and drop-offs, and fish these areas during the incoming and outgoing tides.
Use Live Bait: Redfish are known to feed on a variety of prey, including shrimp, crabs, and small fish. Use live bait that mimics the prey they are feeding on, such as live shrimp or finger mullet, and fish it using a Carolina rig or other similar rig that allows the bait to move naturally in the water.
Use Jigs and Soft Plastics: Jigs and soft plastics can also be effective in inlets. Use a jig or soft plastic that matches the color and size of the prey that redfish are feeding on, and fish it slowly along the bottom.
Cast Ahead of the Fish: Redfish are often cruising along the bottom in search of prey, so it’s important to cast your bait or lure ahead of the fish and allow it to sink to the bottom before slowly reeling it in.
Set the Hook Quickly: Redfish have a hard mouth, so it’s important to set the hook quickly and firmly when you feel a bite.
Practice Ethical Catch-and-Release: Redfish are an important part of Florida’s ecosystem and should be released carefully and unharmed. Use circle hooks, which reduce the risk of hooking the fish in the throat, and handle the fish gently before releasing it back into the water.

In conclusion, catching redfish in inlets requires some knowledge and strategy, but with the right approach, you can increase your chances of success. Look for areas with structure, pay attention to the tides, and use live bait, jigs, or soft plastics. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to catching redfish in the beautiful inlets of Florida. Remember to practice ethical catch-and-release techniques and enjoy the thrill of catching these prized game fish!

Redfish Gear

When it comes to fishing for redfish, having the right gear can make all the difference. Redfish are strong and hard-fighting game fish that require specific equipment to handle their size and power. Whether you’re targeting average size redfish or bull reds, having the proper gear is essential for a successful and enjoyable fishing experience.

Gear for Average Size Redfish

Average size redfish typically weigh between 5 and 15 pounds and require gear that can handle their strength and speed. Here are the essential pieces of gear for targeting these fish:

Rod and Reel: A medium to medium-heavy spinning rod paired with a quality reel with a smooth drag system is ideal. A 7-foot rod with a fast action and a line rating of 10-20 pounds is a good choice.
Check out our article on the Best Saltwater Spinning Reels.
Line: Use a braided line with a test rating of 15-20 pounds, which will provide the strength and sensitivity needed to feel the bite and set the hook.
Terminal Tackle: Use a leader with a fluorocarbon or monofilament line of 20-30 pounds, which will provide abrasion resistance and visibility in the water. Use a variety of hooks, such as circle hooks, J-hooks, or Kahle hooks, depending on the bait you’re using and the fishing conditions.
Bait and Lures: Live or cut bait, such as shrimp, crab, or mullet, is effective. Soft plastic lures and jigs can also be productive, especially in areas with heavy vegetation or where live bait is not available.

Gear for Bull Reds

Bull reds, also known as oversized redfish, typically weigh between 20 and 40 pounds or more and require heavier gear to handle their size and strength. Here are the essential pieces of gear for targeting bull reds:

Rod and Reel: A heavy spinning or conventional rod paired with a quality reel with a strong drag system is ideal for targeting bull reds. A 7- to 8-foot rod with a fast action and a line rating of 30-50 pounds is a good choice.
Line: Use a braided line with a test rating of 50-80 pounds, which will provide the strength and durability needed to handle the size and power of bull reds.
Terminal Tackle: Use a leader with a fluorocarbon or monofilament line of 60-80 pounds, which will provide abrasion resistance and visibility in the water. Use circle hooks, J-hooks, or treble hooks depending on the bait you’re using and the fishing conditions.
Bait and Lures: Live bait, such as mullet or menhaden, is effective for targeting bull reds. Large soft plastic lures and heavy jigs can also be productive.

Use a medium to medium-heavy spinning rod and braided line for average size redfish, and a heavy spinning or conventional rod and braided line for bull reds. Use the appropriate terminal tackle and bait or lures for the fishing conditions and the size of the fish you’re targeting. With the right gear, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and enjoyable fishing experience.

Redfish Bait

Redfish are known to feed on a variety of prey, including shrimp, crabs, and small fish. Here are some of the best baits:

Live Shrimp: Live shrimp is one of the most popular baits, as they are a common food source for these fish. Rig the shrimp on a jig head or use a Carolina rig to keep the bait on the bottom and attract redfish.
Live Mullet: Live mullet is another effective bait for redfish, as they are a common prey item in Florida’s coastal waters. Use a large hook and fish the mullet near the bottom.
Cut Bait: Cut bait, such as mullet, menhaden, or ladyfish, can also be effective. Cut the bait into small pieces and rig it on a circle hook to increase your chances of hooking the fish in the corner of the mouth.
Crabs: Bull Redfish are known to feed on crabs, especially during the warmer months when crabs are more active. Use live or fresh dead crabs as bait and fish them near structure, such as rocks or jetties.

When choosing bait for redfish, it’s important to consider the water conditions, time of year, and the size of the fish you’re targeting. Experiment with different baits and lures to find what works best in your fishing location.

Redfish Lures

There are a variety of lures that can be effective for targeting redfish, but some lures are more popular and productive than others. Here are some of the best lures for redfish:

Gold Spoon: A gold spoon is a classic and effective lure. The spoon’s flash and vibration mimic the movement of a fleeing baitfish. Fish the spoon with a slow, steady retrieve along the bottom, and add occasional twitches to create extra movement.
Soft Plastic Shrimp Imitations: Soft plastic shrimp imitations, such as the DOA Shrimp, are popular and productive lures. The soft plastic mimics the texture and movement of a live shrimp, which is a common prey item for redfish. Rig the shrimp on a jig head or use a Carolina rig to keep the bait on the bottom.
Topwater Walking Baits: Topwater walking baits, such as the Heddon Super Spook Jr., can be effective for targeting redfish in shallow water or areas with heavy vegetation. The walking bait mimics the movement of a fleeing baitfish, and the surface disturbance created by the bait can attract redfish. Fish the bait with short, sharp jerks to create a side-to-side walking motion.
Jigs with Soft Plastic Trailers: Jigs with soft plastic trailers, such as the Strike King Saltwater Flats Jighead with a Z-Man GrubZ trailer, are versatile and effective lures, especially in the salt marshes. Use a jig that matches the color and size of the baitfish in your fishing area, and rig it with a soft plastic trailer that mimics the movement of a live prey item.
Spinnerbaits with Soft Plastic Trailers: Spinnerbaits with soft plastic trailers, such as the Strike King Redfish Magic Spinnerbait, can be productive for targeting redfish in areas with moving water. Use a spinnerbait with a blade that creates vibration and flash in the water, and rig it with a soft plastic trailer that mimics the movement of a fleeing baitfish.

Experiment with different lures and retrieve techniques to find what works best in your fishing location. Remember to use appropriate gear and techniques when fishing with lures, and practice ethical catch-and-release techniques to ensure the sustainability of redfish populations.

Advanced Tips and Techniques

Use Stealth: Redfish can be easily spooked by noise or movement, so it’s important to approach your fishing spot quietly and avoid making sudden movements. Move slowly and quietly, and use a trolling motor or pole to maneuver your boat.
Time Your Casts: Timing your casts can make a big difference in catching redfish. Wait until the fish are actively feeding before casting, and try to cast ahead of the school so the lure or bait lands in their path.
Dead Sticking: Dead sticking involves casting a bait or lure and letting it sit motionless on the bottom, imitating a wounded or dead prey item. This technique can be effective in areas with slow-moving or stationary redfish, and requires patience to wait for the fish to take the bait.
Fish the Docks: Redfish often seek shelter under docks and piers, where they can find shade and ambush prey. Use a weedless jighead or a soft plastic lure to avoid getting snagged on the dock. Cast your bait or lure under the dock and retrieve it slowly to mimic a fleeing baitfish.
Use a Drop Shot Rig: Use a drop shot rig to keep your bait off the bottom and in the strike zone. Use a small hook and a soft plastic bait, and tie a weight at the end of your line. Cast your bait and let it sink to the desired depth.
Fish the Seagrass Beds: Redfish often feed in seagrass beds, where they can find small fish and crustaceans. Use a weedless jighead or a soft plastic bait to avoid getting snagged in the seagrass. Cast your bait and retrieve it slowly along the bottom.
Twitch-and-Reel Retrieve: Cast your bait or lure and let it sink to the desired depth. Retrieve your bait with a series of sharp twitches, followed by a steady retrieve. The twitches can create a darting motion that attracts redfish.
Pay Attention to Barometric Pressure: Changes in barometric pressure can affect the behavior of fish, including redfish. In general, redfish are more active and easier to catch when the barometric pressure is stable or rising.
Fish During Low Light Conditions: Redfish are more active during low light conditions, such as dawn and dusk. These times can be ideal for fishing for redfish, as they are more likely to be feeding and less likely to be spooked by your presence.
Use Wind to Your Advantage: Wind can be your friend or your enemy when fishing for redfish. If the wind is blowing in your favor, use it to your advantage by drifting with the wind and casting with the wind. This will help you cover more water and find schools of redfish.

Redfish Recipe

Known for its firm, white flesh and mild flavor, redfish can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, baking, and frying. One classic and delicious way to prepare it is by blackening it, which involves coating the fish with a spice blend and cooking it until it’s charred on the outside and moist and tender on the inside.

Here’s a simple and tasty recipe for blackened redfish that can be cooked on a grill or in a cast iron skillet:

Ingredients:

4 redfish fillets
2 tablespoons paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon black pepper
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

Preheat your grill or oven to 400 degrees F.
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper to create a blackening seasoning.
Brush the fillets with melted butter, and sprinkle both sides generously with the blackening seasoning.
Place the fillets on the grill or in the oven, and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve hot, with your favorite sides such as rice, vegetables, or a salad.

Also check out our article on Catching Snook in Florida

Florida Redfish Guide | Plus 10 Tips and Techniques to Give You the Advantage