Redfish, Red Drum, Puppy Drum, Channel Bass Information

Sun Oct 12, 2008

Description: Known as a fish that will not quit, redfish can be absolute brutes. And as such, they have become one of the most sought after fish in the shallows of Florida. Since their protection in the mid 1980's redfish numbers have proliferated and are especially abundant and large on the east central Florida coastline. Redfish have a coppery bronze color with a tinge of red, color will vary depending on water clarity. Normally redfish have one spot on the base of their tails but often there are several or many spots. Take a look at these spots caught by a lagooner fisherman. [LOOK]

Where Are Found: East Central Florida boast some of the best inshore and estuary fishing for redfish in the world. Our redfish are reknown 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 one foot of water while foraging for crustaceans, fish and small mullosk. Often they are in such shallow water that you can see their tales and backs protruding from the water, hence the term "tailing redfish".

Best Redfish Locations

Mosquito Lagoon - Sightfishing Mecca from Oakhill to Playlinda Beach.
Northern Indian River Lagoon - Banana Creek, Titusville, Carbide Flats, Haulover Canal, Dummit Cove, Scottsmore are only some of the known redfish haunts in this area
Banana River - Large redfish cruise this area adjacent to the federal No-Motor-Zone in the northern part of this lagoon where schools numbering in the thousands roam untouched and free after a mandated closure post 9-11.

Florida Record : 51 lbs., 8 ozs.

Remarks: Much like hooking a runaway frieght train, this stubborn fish is truly one of the most exciting to catch. Some anglers like to steathily stalk large fish in very shallow water. While others have found that livebaiting over the flats and along island shorelines to be productive. Take a look at some of these redfish photographs from Lagooner excursions.