There’s something special about catching redfish from the shore. You don’t need a fancy boat or expensive gear, just a good spot, some bait, and a little patience. Whether you’re casting along the beaches of Florida, exploring Texas bays, or wading through Carolina marshes, redfish offer an exciting challenge and plenty of fun. Let’s break down what makes these copper-colored fish so awesome and how you can catch them right from the shore.
Where to Find Redfish from the Shore
Redfish aren’t too hard to find if you know what to look for. They love structure, so keep an eye out for oyster beds, grass flats, sandbars, and even the edges of tidal creeks. These spots are like all-you-can-eat buffets for redfish, packed with shrimp, crabs, and baitfish.
If you’re fishing in the summer, redfish hang out in the shallows. You might even spot them tailing as they root around for food, there’s no bigger rush than seeing that tail pop up and knowing a cast in the right spot could make your day. In the winter, they tend to move to deeper water, but don’t worry, they’ll still cruise channels, creek mouths, and even areas close to shore looking for a meal.
Your Go-To Gear for Shore Fishing Redfish
Here’s the great thing about fishing for redfish: you don’t need to break the bank to do it. A solid 7- to 9-foot rod paired with a spinning reel (3000–4000 series) will get the job done. Add some 15–20 lb braided line and a 20–30 lb fluorocarbon leader, and you’re ready to roll.
When it comes to rigs, keep it simple. A Carolina rig with a circle hook is a classic choice, it’s easy to set up and super effective. If the current’s strong, you might want to go with a fish-finder rig instead. And don’t forget a rod holder. Seriously, it’s a lifesaver if you’re fishing multiple rods or just want to sit back and enjoy the view while you wait for a bite.
Baits for Redfish
Redfish are like the Labradors of the fishing world, they’ll eat just about anything, but they definitely have their favorites.
- Live Bait: You can’t go wrong with shrimp, mullet, or crabs. These are redfish staples, and the scent alone is enough to bring them in. If you’re in Florida, shrimp is a must. In Texas, mullet tends to be the go-to.
- Cut Bait: Fresh is best. Cut mullet, menhaden, or even blue crab can be a game-changer, especially if you’re fishing in deeper water or near jetties.
- Artificial Lures: If you’re into lures, soft plastics and gold spoons are hard to beat. They mimic the baitfish redfish are after and are easy to work in both clear and murky water.
Pro Tip: If you’re fishing from the beach, make sure your bait or lure is heavy enough to stay put in the surf.
When and How to Fish for Redfish from Shore
If you’re not paying attention to tides, you’re missing out. Tidal changes are when redfish are most active. Incoming and outgoing tides are prime times to fish, as they bring baitfish into areas where redfish are waiting to ambush them.
Early mornings and late afternoons are usually best, especially in the summer when it’s cooler. During the fall, though, you can often find redfish feeding throughout the day, this is the time of year when big bull redfish come closer to shore. In winter, target deeper spots like channels or creek mouths you can access from the bank.
When it comes to technique, keep it simple. If you’re using bait, cast out and let it sit. Redfish aren’t shy, they’ll pick it up if it’s there. For lures, a slow and steady retrieve often works best, but don’t be afraid to mix it up with a twitch or pause to mimic an injured baitfish.
Why Shore Fishing for Redfish Is So Addicting
There’s something about shore fishing for redfish that just hits differently. Maybe it’s the simplicity of it—no boat, no high-tech gadgets, just you and the water. Or maybe it’s the thrill of feeling that first hard pull and knowing you’ve hooked into something special. Whatever it is, redfish have a way of making every trip memorable.
Whether you’re on a quiet beach at sunrise, standing knee-deep in a marsh, or fishing a jetty with friends, there’s no wrong way to chase these fish. The best part? Anyone can do it. So grab your gear, find a good spot, and get out there. You might just end up with a story you’ll be telling for years.
Ready to gear up for your next redfish adventure? Check out Duke's Fishing Supply for everything you need to make your trip a success.