Redfish

Common Names: Redfish, Red Drum, Channel Bass, Spottail Bass Appearance: Redfish can be identified by their reddish-bronze body color with a distinct, dark spot at the base of the tail fin. Younger fish often have multiple spots, but these may fade as they mature. They have a sloped forehead, a large mouth, and a chin without barbels. The body is high and rounded, particularly in younger fish. The dorsal fin is divided into two parts; the anterior part contains hard spines and the posterior part contains one hard spine followed by soft rays. Size: Redfish can grow quite large, with some individuals reaching lengths of up to 61 inches (155 cm) and weights of 94 pounds (43 kg), though such sizes are rare. More commonly, Redfish are found to be around 20-30 inches (50-76 cm) in inshore waters, where they are often targeted by anglers. Habitat: Juvenile Redfish are typically found in inshore waters such as bays, estuaries, and shallow coastal waters with sandy or muddy bottoms. Adults are more commonly found in nearshore ocean waters, but will also move into bays and estuaries. Distribution: They range from the Gulf of Mexico and up the Atlantic coast to Massachusetts. Behavior: Redfish are known for their strong, bulldog-like fight when hooked, making them a favorite among sport fishermen. They feed on crabs, shrimp, and mullet, usually foraging in or near grassy areas. Life Cycle: Spawning typically occurs from August through November, when they move offshore into deeper waters. Larval Redfish are carried into estuarine waters where they grow and mature. Fishing Tips: They can be caught with a variety of baits, both live and artificial, including spoons, soft plastics, and even topwater lures for inshore fishing. They are known to tail in shallow waters, meaning they expose their tails above the water surface while feeding on bottom-dwelling prey, which can be an exciting sight for sight-casting anglers. Redfish are a popular target for recreational fishing and are known for their fine table quality. Their popularity has led to strict regulations in some areas to ensure the sustainability of their populations.