GREAT FLORIDA FISHING: RED FISH


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Great Florida Fishing: The Thrilling Pursuit of Redfish in the Sunshine State


Florida, a paradise for anglers, is home to the mighty redfish (also known as red drum), a prize catch that offers year-round excitement. With their strong, determined fights and impressive sizes—some tipping the scales over 50 pounds—redfish make for an exhilarating challenge. Whether you're a seasoned fisher or a novice, the pursuit of redfish in Florida's diverse waters promises a thrilling adventure.


Best Seasons for Redfish Fishing in Florida

Redfish are available all year in Florida, with no closed season, making them a perennial favorite for anglers. However, the peak season to target these robust fish is in the fall. From late summer through the fall, giant bull redfish become particularly active, offering the chance for an unforgettable catch​​​​.


Notable Locations for Redfish Fishing Across Florida

  1. Florida Panhandle: Explore the bays and beaches from Pensacola to the Big Bend area. Destin and Pensacola Beach are particularly notable, with their grassy and rocky shorelines teeming with redfish. The fall season in Pensacola Beach is exceptional for catching big bull reds​​.

  2. Central Florida: Known as the "Redfish Capital of the World," Central Florida boasts hotspots like Mosquito Lagoon and the Indian River. These locations are renowned for their grass flats and are perfect for year-round fishing​​.

  3. Tampa Bay Area: This region offers excellent fishing from spring through fall, with abundant grass flats, mangrove shorelines, and oyster beds. Tampa Bay and nearby areas like Clearwater and Apollo Beach are prime spots for redfish enthusiasts​​.

  4. Fort Myers and South Florida: The islands around Fort Myers, with their dense mangroves and grass flats, are a must-visit. Miami's canals and the Florida Keys also offer great opportunities, particularly in October, extending through winter and spring​​.


Tactics and Tides: Mastering Redfish Fishing

Redfish can be caught from the beach or by boat. They are typically found in depths ranging from 2 to 35 feet. Sight casting is a popular method, requiring the bait to be placed around 10 feet in front of the fish. Tides play a crucial role; high tides push redfish into shallow flats, while low tides draw them out to deeper waters near drop-offs. The period following a high tide is prime for targeting redfish near mangroves​​​​.


Gear and Bait: Equip Yourself for Success

A medium-heavy rod, 7 to 10 feet in length, with 20- to 30-pound test braid line, is ideal. Redfish diet includes mullet, shellfish, crabs, and pilchards. Live baits like shrimp, mud minnows, and pinfish are highly effective. For artificial baits, shrimp and crab imitation plastics, mullet-shaped plugs, and poppers can yield exciting results​​.

In conclusion, redfish fishing in Florida is an adventure not to be missed. With its vast and varied fishing spots, the Sunshine State provides endless opportunities for both casual and serious anglers to reel in the catch of a lifetime. Whether you're casting your line in the tranquil waters of the Florida Panhandle or navigating the lush mangroves of the Keys, the thrill of hooking a redfish is an experience you'll cherish forever. Happy fishing!




REDFISH PURSUIT FISHING LINKS