Best Times to Catch Redfish
Redfish are caught in Tampa Bay year-round. However, schools of redfish are particularly abundant in the spring and fall, making these seasons prime times for fishing.
Top Locations
Some of the best spots to catch redfish in Tampa Bay include:
- Weedon Island: A favorite spot with plenty of redfish activity.
- Fort De Soto: Known for its productive waters and beautiful scenery.
- Cockroach Bay: Another excellent location with a high concentration of redfish.
- Docks: Redfish often hang around the edges of docks, attracted by baitfish.
- Mangroves: These provide shelter and ambush points for redfish.
- Oyster Bars: High tidal flow areas with oyster bars are prime spots.
- Grass Flats: Redfish love these areas for the abundant food sources.
Best Baits
Using the right bait can significantly increase your chances of catching redfish. Some of the most effective baits include:
- Live Shrimp: A favorite among redfish, especially when used under a popping cork.
- Green back or threadfin
- Crabs: Hardy live blue-claw crabs are irresistible to redfish.
- Cut Pinfish: Effective near oyster bars and deeper holes.
Fishing Techniques
- Sight Fishing: Look for redfish near the surface, especially in shallow waters.
- Using Light Tackle: A medium action rod paired with a 15-20 lb braided line is ideal.
- Matching the Hatch: Use artificial lures that resemble local baitfish.
Personal Recommendations
From my experience, some of the best artificial baits to catch redfish include:
- Gold Spoons: These are highly effective and versatile.
- Mirrolure Lil John on a 1/8 ounce jig head: This setup works wonders in various conditions.
Additionally, I always use 18-24 inches of high-quality 25# leader on all redfish setups to ensure durability and effectiveness.
Look for schools of mullet, Shore birds that will feed on the same forage as the feeding redfish. Tampa Bay is one of the more challenging places to be successful at. But, when you figure it out, you will become a much better fisherman everywhere.
Additional Tips
- Weather and Tides: Pay attention to weather conditions and tidal movements, as these can affect redfish behavior.
- Local Knowledge: Consider hiring a local guide to learn the best spots and techniques.
Would you like to add anything else or need more details on any of these points?