Caught a Redfish Inshore in Crystal River

The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. This prized gamefish is found along the Atlantic Ocean coastlines of the United States and is easily identified by one or more distinctive "eyespots" near the tail and a copper-red back that fades to a white belly. In Crystal River waters this July, redfish provide some of the most exciting inshore fishing opportunities available to anglers.

Redfish Overview

Redfish are among the most sought-after inshore gamefish due to their aggressive feeding behavior, strong fighting ability, and excellent table fare. These drum species can live over 40 years and are known for their distinctive copper coloration and black spots. Anglers prize them for their willingness to take both live bait and artificial lures in shallow water environments.

Redfish Habitat and Distribution

Redfish prefer shallow coastal waters including flats, backcountry creeks, oyster bars, and nearshore structures. Around Crystal River, they inhabit water depths from 1 to 4 feet, making them ideal targets for sight fishing. These fish move with the tides, often feeding in very shallow water during high tide periods before retreating to deeper channels as water levels drop.

Redfish Size and Weight

Adult redfish typically range from 30 to 61 inches in length and weigh between 10 to 45 pounds. Slot-size fish in the 18 to 27-inch range are most commonly targeted by recreational 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, pinfish, and other small baitfish. They often feed by "tailing" in shallow water, where their tails break the surface as they root for crabs and shrimp in the bottom sediment. This feeding behavior makes them excellent targets for sight fishing during calm conditions.

Redfish Spawning Season

Redfish spawn in nearshore waters from late summer through fall, typically when water temperatures range from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. During spawning season, large schools of adult redfish gather in deeper water, creating spectacular fishing opportunities for anglers targeting trophy-sized fish.

Redfish Fishing Techniques

Effective redfish techniques include live bait fishing with shrimp or pinfish, sight casting with soft plastic baits, and using topwater lures during early morning or late afternoon periods. Around Crystal River in July, anglers find success using gold spoons, soft plastic paddle tails, and live shrimp fished near oyster bars and grass flats during incoming tides.

Redfish Is It Good to Eat?

Redfish offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. The flesh is low in fat and high in protein, making it a healthy dining choice. Popular cooking methods include blackening, grilling, and baking, with the fish's firm texture holding up well to various preparation styles.

Redfish Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for redfish?

A: Live shrimp, pinfish, and mullet are top choices, along with artificial baits like soft plastic paddle tails, gold spoons, and topwater plugs.

Q: Where can I find redfish near Crystal River?

A: Look for redfish on shallow flats, around oyster bars, in backcountry creeks, and near grass beds during incoming tides.

Q: Is redfish good to eat?

A: Yes, redfish have firm white meat with a mild flavor that's excellent grilled, blackened, or baked.

Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?

A: Early morning and late afternoon during incoming tides provide the best redfish action, especially in shallow water areas.