 Known
as the fish that won't quit, redfish can be absolute brutes, and because of this,
they have become the most sought after fish in the shallows of Florida. Since
their protection in the mid 1980's redfish have proliferated and are especially
abundant and large on the west central Florida coastline. Redfish have a coppery
bronze color with a tinge of red. Color will very depending on the water clarity.
Normally redfish have one spot on the base of their tail but often there are several.
Where Redfish are Found
West Central Florida boasts some of the best inshore and estuary fishing for
redfish in the world. Our redfish fishery is known for both quantity and quality.
They are found in the lagoon systems all around the coast of Florida, and some
are even found offshore. This species is often found feeding in less than a foot
of water while foraging for crustaceans, fish, and small mollusk. Often they are
in such shallow water that you can see their tails and backs protruding from the
surface of the water hence the term “Tailing Reds”.
Florida State Record
Remarks
Much like hooking a runaway freight train, this stubborn fish is truly one
of the most exciting to catch. Some anglers like to stealthily stalk large fish
in very shallow water, while others have found that live baiting over the flats
and along island shore lines to be productive.
Capt. Bear's Comments
If you want to target redfish, we can do that any time of the year - they are
here and we will catch them. There are many different ways to do so. It all depends
on the anglers ability, and at times, a little patience with the captain will
pay off.
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