Species Spotlight: Targeting Redfish in Bays Year-Round

Redfish, also known as red drum, are among the most iconic and sought-after species in bay fishing. Known for their aggressive strikes, hard fights, and delicious fillets, redfish are a favorite target of both beginners and experienced anglers. One of the best things about redfish is that they are available to catch in bay systems all year long—if you know where to look and how to adjust your tactics.

Redfish thrive in shallow coastal bays, marshes, and estuaries. These fish are extremely tolerant of a wide range of salinities and temperatures, which means they remain in the bay systems throughout all four seasons. Their feeding habits change depending on the time of year, but their willingness to eat and fight rarely fades. More about Port O’Connor Fishing Guides here

In the spring, redfish begin to move out of deeper wintering holes and return to grassy flats, shorelines, and shallow marshes. This is a great time to sight fish for them, especially during calm, sunny mornings. On warmer days, look for tailing fish or pushing wakes along grass edges. Live shrimp, soft plastics, and gold spoons work well this time of year.

As spring progresses into early summer, redfish spread throughout the bay and become even more aggressive. They feed heavily in the early morning and late evening, often cruising flats in search of crabs, shrimp, and baitfish. Topwater lures, especially walk-the-dog style baits, can produce thrilling surface strikes when redfish are in shallow water. During midday, they may hold near deeper grass lines or oyster reefs, where they can be caught on jigs or live bait.

In summer, redfish remain active but often shift to deeper or cooler water during the hottest parts of the day. Early morning and dusk become prime times to fish. Areas with tidal movement, such as marsh drains and creeks, are especially productive when bait is being flushed out. During this season, redfish are often found in schools, which can result in multiple hookups when located.

Fall is one of the best seasons for targeting redfish in bays. As water temperatures begin to cool, baitfish begin to migrate, and redfish go into full feeding mode. Schools of large redfish, sometimes called “bull reds,” can be found patrolling passes, deeper channels, and nearshore areas. These fish are aggressive and can be caught on cut bait, live mullet, or heavy soft plastics. Slot-sized redfish, which are the most common target for inshore anglers, continue to roam grassy flats and oyster reefs, offering consistent action well into November.

Fall is also when anglers have the best chance of completing a Texas Slam—catching a redfish, trout, and flounder in one outing. Redfish play a key role in that trio, often being the most active of the three species. Focus your efforts around current breaks, bait pods, and shoreline structures like grass points or submerged wood.

Winter doesn’t mean redfish disappear—it just means they change behavior. In colder months, redfish tend to school up in deeper, mud-bottom areas where water temperatures are more stable. On sunny days, they may venture back onto shallow flats to warm themselves, especially during the late morning and early afternoon. Slow presentations are crucial. Use soft plastics fished low and slow, or scented baits like Gulp! shrimp to entice sluggish fish.

One of the most exciting ways to catch redfish year-round is through sight casting. Whether from a boat, kayak, or while wading, seeing a redfish before you cast is an adrenaline rush. In clear water, polarized sunglasses are essential. Look for fish movement, subtle shadows, or the distinctive copper flash of a redfish turning on prey.

When it comes to bait selection, redfish aren’t particularly picky but they do have preferences based on season and conditions. Live shrimp, mullet, and mud minnows are all excellent natural choices. Artificial lures such as paddle tails, jerkbaits, and spoons are highly effective when worked along the bottom or just above submerged grass. In murky water, opt for darker lures or those with vibration and scent to help fish locate the bait.

Tackle for redfish doesn’t need to be overly complicated. A 7-foot medium power spinning rod with a 2500 to 3000 size reel spooled with 10-15 lb braided line and a 20 lb fluorocarbon leader is ideal for most bay scenarios. This setup gives you the strength to fight slot-sized fish and the sensitivity to feel subtle strikes in shallow water.

Redfish are managed carefully across Texas and other Gulf states, and responsible angling is crucial. The typical slot limit in Texas is 20 to 28 inches, with one fish over 28 inches allowed per angler with a tag. Always measure your fish, handle them with care, and release larger breeders when possible to help sustain the population.

For anglers looking to target redfish year-round with a guide who knows their patterns inside and out, Captain Wes Bodden of Lured Out in Port O’Connor is a top choice. With years of experience fishing the bays and marshes of coastal Texas, Wes tailors each trip to the season, tide, and skill level of his guests. Whether you’re sight fishing shallow flats in spring or chasing bull reds in the fall, he knows how to put you in the right place at the right time.

Call Captain Wes Bodden at (325) 315-8345 to book your next redfish-focused bay fishing trip with Lured Out. Let Wes show you why redfish are one of the most exciting and dependable targets in Texas bays—no matter the time of year.