Caught a Redfish Inshore in Crystal River

The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, is a premier gamefish belonging to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. These distinctive fish are easily recognized by their copper-bronze backs that fade to white bellies and the characteristic black eyespots near their tails. In Crystal River waters this July, redfish provide some of the most exciting inshore fishing opportunities available to anglers.

Redfish Overview

Redfish are highly prized by anglers for their fighting ability and excellent table fare. These drum family members are found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, with Crystal River representing some of Florida's finest redfish habitat. Their light, flaky meat and aggressive feeding behavior make them a favorite target for both recreational and charter fishing operations.

Redfish Habitat and Distribution

Redfish prefer shallow coastal waters including flats, backcountry areas, and nearshore environments. Around Crystal River, they inhabit grass flats, oyster bars, and mangrove shorelines where water depths typically range from 1 to 4 feet. These fish move with tides and seasons, often feeding in extremely shallow water where their backs and tails are visible to sight-casting anglers.

Redfish Size and Weight

Adult redfish typically measure between 30 and 61 inches in length, with weights ranging from 10 to 45 pounds. Slot-sized fish between 18 and 27 inches are most commonly targeted by inshore anglers, while larger "bull" redfish over 27 inches are catch-and-release only in Florida waters.

Redfish Diet and Behavior

Redfish are opportunistic feeders that consume crabs, shrimp, mullet, pinfish, and other small baitfish. They use their downturned mouths to root through sand and mud bottoms, often creating visible "muds" as they feed. Peak feeding activity occurs during moving tides, particularly in early morning and late afternoon when they cruise shallow flats in search of prey.

Redfish Spawning Season

Redfish spawn in nearshore waters during late summer and early fall when water temperatures remain warm. During spawning season, large schools of adult fish gather in deeper water, creating drumming sounds that can be heard from considerable distances. This seasonal movement affects fishing patterns as mature fish temporarily leave shallow inshore areas.

Redfish Fishing Techniques

Successful redfish fishing employs live bait such as shrimp, pinfish, or mullet fished near structure and grass flats. Artificial lures including gold spoons, soft plastic baits, and topwater plugs are highly effective when sight casting to cruising fish. In Crystal River during summer months, anglers find redfish most active during early morning hours when they feed aggressively in shallow water before seeking deeper, cooler areas during midday heat.

Redfish Is It Good to Eat?

Redfish offer excellent eating with mild, slightly sweet flesh that flakes easily when cooked. The meat is lean and high in protein while being relatively low in mercury compared to many saltwater species. Popular preparation methods include blackening, grilling, and baking, with the fish's firm texture holding up well to various cooking techniques.

Redfish Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for redfish?

A: Live shrimp and cut mullet are top choices, though pinfish and live crabs also work well. Gold spoons and soft plastic baits are excellent artificial options.

Q: Where can I find redfish near Crystal River?

A: Look for redfish on shallow grass flats, around oyster bars, and along mangrove shorelines in 1-4 feet of water, especially during moving tides.

Q: Is redfish good to eat?

A: Yes, redfish have mild, sweet flesh that's excellent grilled, blackened, or baked. They're high in protein and relatively low in mercury.

Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?

A: Early morning and late afternoon during moving tides offer the best redfish action, particularly when they're feeding in shallow water.