Redfish Fishing Tips!

The Fall Season here in Homosassa means great Redfish fishing! The water is getting a little cooler and the schools of Redfish are moving in. I fished the points of the outside islands this weekend on a fast incoming tide. Most of the fish we caught were in the slot, (18 to 27 inches) but we did get a 32 inch in the mix and his picture is attached. Redfish aren’t considered fussy eaters and they are easiest to catch with cut bait resting on the bottom. Just putting the rod in the holder, winding out the slack and loosening the drag is the easiest way to a sure catch – use a circle hook and you don’t even need to set the hook. I also tossed the usual, a 1/2 ounce gold spoon, and this was also successful in producing a few Reds. My favorite way is using a free line with a pinfish and tossing it up close to the shore where the mullet are moving. That’s how we caught the Bull Red! Holding that rodtip high and waiting for the anticipated strike will get your heart racing! Whatever method you choose to use, the two keys to success in catching Reds are shallow and quiet. Shallow can be pretty extreme at times and the Reds can get pretty skittish. I love my specially designed flats boat which allows me to get back into the shallow areas and climb the poling platform to look for surface movement or flashes under the water. The boat motor can spook the fish so I like to pole in or use my trolling motor on slow speed. I use a power pole instead of a splashing anchor to keep our presence a secret.  Sure looking forward to the cooler weather and a great season of fishing for those Reds.  I would love to take you out and put you on some Reds, just give me a call!