Redfish, or Channel Bass or Bull Red, is a popular game fish in many coastal areas.
They can be found in shallow waters and estuaries along the Atlantic coast from Massachusetts through Florida and around the Gulf Coast all the way to Texas.
In this article, we’ll provide three essential tips for having a successful redfish season so you can get out on the water and enjoy catching these delicious fish!
With our advice, you will find yourself more successful than ever and gain valuable knowledge about how best to target redfish.
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Use Bait That Redfish Find Tasty
One of the best ways to increase your chances of catching redfish is using the right bait. Redfish feed on various critters, such as shrimp, crabs, and minnows.
I use live finger mullet, as this bait seems to get them in every time.
Another reminder is that the type of bait Redfish will find most appealing might change depending on the season. For example, they tend to like crabs more during the spring.
Whatever you choose, just make sure you’re using lures or bait that redfish are attracted to. It’s also a good idea to churn them up by throwing a handful of bait at once to get them rowdy and excited, thus vulnerable for catching.
Look for Signs of Life
When redfish are in the area, it’s usually easy to tell because they leave behind sure signs.
These include small disturbances in the water, like a ripple or flicker on the surface. This water movement might indicate that redfish are tailing on the surface.
Additionally, other signs of life might be critical indicators. For example, you can look for redfish activity when birds hover over an area. Jumping mullets in the backwater is another excellent sign that there’s likely redfish not too far away.
You can also focus on areas where redfish are likely to feed, such as shallow flats with grass beds and oyster bars. Or you might want to look into the deep end, as redfish tend to congregate in deep pockets of water, so you might be able to catch more at once.
Use the Right Gear
Choosing the right gear can make all the difference during Redfish season. The rod and reel you use should match the type of redfish you’re targeting.
As redfish can be found in many depths, from shallow flats to deep pockets, your rod and reel should also be suitable for various depths or the specific depth you’d like to focus on.
When it comes to lures and bait, redfish can be attractive to artificial lures and bait, so purchasing and bringing along several different types with you, in addition to live bait, can help you take a varied approach once you’re out on the water.
Variety is key because if one strategy isn’t working, the other might! This is especially true since redfish are so variable themselves in terms of behavior, diet, and location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now that you know the three main areas to focus on this redfish season, you might have a few more questions in mind. Here are our answers to commonly asked questions about redfish
What month is best for redfish?
Although you can fish for redfish all year long, September and November are seen as the best months for redfish, as this is before they become less active in the winter season.
January through February is also an excellent time to catch redfish in the marsh.
Is redfish a good eating fish?
Absolutely! Redfish are known for their mild, sweet-tasting flesh.
They can be prepared in various ways, such as grilled, fried, or blackened. Redfish, like most fish, are also very high in Omega-3 fatty acids, which have multiple benefits for your heart, brain, and mental health.
All in all, redfish are a delicious and healthy choice to include in your diet, making them all the more fun to catch!
What is the best bait to catch redfish?
The best bait to catch redfish will depend on the season and location, so it’s good to experiment with different kinds of bait.
Most redfish will take live bait such as shrimp, mullet fish, crabs, and menhaden. Artificial lures can also be effective, particularly jigging spoons or topwater plugs. It’s always a smart idea to have a variety of options with you on the water so that you can switch up your bait if one type isn’t working.
How old is a 30-inch redfish?
A redfish measuring 30 inches is likely to be around 4-10 years old, but it can be tricky to guess the age of a redfish after that length. Redfish can live up to 50 years or more!