Trophy Redfish Fishing with Dave Huston

Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, are iconic gamefish belonging to the family Sciaenidae and order Perciformes. These copper-colored fish are easily identified by their distinctive black eyespots near the tail and reddish back that fades to a white belly. In Crystal River waters this September, redfish are feeding aggressively in preparation for cooler months ahead.

Redfish Overview

Redfish are highly prized by anglers for their fighting ability and excellent table fare. These drum family members can live over 40 years and are found throughout the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic coastlines. Their popularity has made them a cornerstone species for inshore fishing charters, particularly in Florida's backcountry waters.

Redfish Habitat and Distribution

These adaptable fish thrive in shallow coastal waters, preferring depths of 1-4 feet around grass flats, oyster bars, and structure breaks. Crystal River's backcountry provides ideal habitat with its mix of shallow flats, mangrove shorelines, and tidal creeks. Redfish move with tides to feed in different areas throughout the day.

Redfish Size and Weight

Adult redfish typically range from 30 to 61 inches in length, weighing between 10 and 45 pounds. Slot-size fish (18-27 inches) are most commonly targeted by anglers, while larger "bull" redfish over 27 inches are often released to preserve the breeding population.

Redfish Diet and Behavior

Redfish are opportunistic feeders that consume crabs, shrimp, mullet, and various baitfish. They often feed by "tailing" in shallow water, with their tails visible above the surface as they root for prey in the bottom. This behavior makes them excellent targets for sight fishing techniques.

Redfish Spawning Season

Spawning occurs in nearshore waters from late summer through fall when water temperatures range from 70-85°F. During this period, large schools of adult redfish gather in deeper waters, while juvenile fish remain in protected estuarine environments like Crystal River's backcountry.

Redfish Fishing Techniques

Effective techniques include live bait fishing with shrimp or pinfish, artificial lures like spoons and soft plastics, and fly fishing with crab patterns. In Crystal River, drift fishing over grass flats and bottom fishing near structure breaks produce consistent results. During September, anglers find success targeting redfish near oyster bars and mangrove edges during moving tides.

Redfish Is It Good to Eat?

Redfish offer mild, sweet flesh with a firm texture that's excellent grilled, blackened, or baked. They're high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury. Slot-size fish provide the best eating quality, with larger fish often having coarser meat texture.

Redfish Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for redfish?

A: Live shrimp, pinfish, and cut mullet are top choices. Artificial lures like gold spoons and soft plastic jigs also work well in Crystal River's shallow waters.

Q: Where can I find redfish near Crystal River?

A: Target grass flats, oyster bars, mangrove shorelines, and structure breaks in 1-4 feet of water. Moving tides often trigger feeding activity.

Q: Is redfish good to eat?

A: Yes, slot-size redfish (18-27 inches) offer excellent eating with mild, sweet flesh that's perfect for grilling or blackening.

Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?

A: Early morning and late afternoon during moving tides are prime times. Fall months like September offer some of the best redfish action in Crystal River.