Redfishing 101: Everything You Need to Know for a Successful Catch

Schooled up redfish

Redfish—also known as red drum—are one of the most popular inshore game fish in Florida, especially around the mangroves and flats of Tampa Bay. Their aggressive strikes, strong fights, and beautiful bronze coloring make them a favorite among anglers of all experience levels.

If you’re new to redfishing or just looking to sharpen your skills before your next trip with C’est La Vie Fishing Charters, this guide will walk you through the essentials.

Redfish are easily recognized by their copper-bronze color and distinctive black spot (or spots) near the tail. They can grow to over 40 inches and weigh 30+ pounds, but most inshore catches are in the 18–27” “slot” range

They thrive in shallow water habitats like:

• Grass flats

• Oyster bars

• Mangrove shorelines

• Estuaries and brackish backwaters

In St. Petersburg and the greater Tampa Bay area, redfish are a year-round target, but the best action happens in:

• Fall – big schools move across the flats

• Spring – redfish get active as water warms up

Tide matters. Captain Christian loves fishing redfish on a rising or falling tide, when water movement stirs up baitfish and shrimp.

At C’est La Vie Fishing Charters, we tailor the experience to your skill level and the day’s conditions. Here are a few go-to tactics:

Live Bait

• Pinfish, shrimp, or pilchards fished under a popping cork

• Cast near structure, current breaks, or potholes in the flats

Artificial Lures

• Soft plastics rigged weedless (especially in grassy areas)

• Topwater lures early morning for explosive strikes

• Gold spoons – a timeless redfish magnet

Sight Fishing

On calm, clear days, we’ll climb the tower boat to spot redfish cruising the flats—and guide you to make the perfect cast.