Caught a Redfish Inshore in Steinhatchee Steinhatchee

The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, is a highly prized game fish belonging to the family Sciaenidae and order Perciformes. These distinctive copper-colored fish are easily identified by their characteristic eyespots near the tail and their reddish back that fades to a white belly. In Steinhatchee waters this July, redfish provide some of the most exciting inshore fishing opportunities along Florida's Nature Coast.

Redfish Overview

Redfish are among the most sought-after inshore game fish along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, valued for their fighting ability and excellent table fare. These drum family members can live over 40 years and are known for their powerful runs and stubborn resistance when hooked. Anglers prize them for their accessibility in shallow water and their willingness to take both live and artificial baits.

Redfish Habitat and Distribution

These adaptable fish thrive in shallow coastal waters, grass flats, oyster bars, and backcountry areas where they find abundant food sources. Around Steinhatchee, redfish frequent the shallow waters near Marina at Deadman's Bay and the flats around Cross City South, often in water less than four feet deep. They prefer areas with structure like oyster bars, grass beds, and drop-offs where they can ambush prey.

Redfish Size and Weight

Adult redfish typically range from 30 to 61 inches in length and weigh between 10 to 45 pounds, though smaller "slot" fish in the 18-27 inch range are most commonly caught by recreational anglers. Trophy-sized fish over 40 inches are often called "bull reds" and provide incredible fights in shallow water.

Redfish Diet and Behavior

Redfish are opportunistic feeders that consume crabs, shrimp, small fish, and marine worms. They often feed by "tailing" in shallow water, where their tails break the surface as they root for food in the bottom. Early morning and late afternoon are prime feeding times, especially during moving tides when baitfish and crustaceans are most active.

Redfish Spawning Season

Spawning occurs in nearshore waters from late summer through fall, typically when water temperatures range from 70-85°F. During this period, large schools of mature fish gather in deeper water to reproduce, though younger fish remain in shallow inshore areas year-round.

Redfish Fishing Techniques

Successful redfish techniques include live bait fishing with shrimp or pinfish, sight fishing with spoons or soft plastics, and using popping corks to create attraction. In Steinhatchee during July, anglers find success working the grass flats with live shrimp under popping corks, especially during early morning hours when fish are actively feeding in shallow water.

Redfish Is It Good to Eat?

Redfish offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat and a mild flavor that works well with various cooking methods. The flesh is lean and flaky when cooked, making it perfect for grilling, blackening, or frying. Redfish are also rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury compared to larger offshore species.

Redfish Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for redfish?

A: Live shrimp, pinfish, and mullet are top choices, though artificial lures like spoons, soft plastics, and topwater plugs also work well when fish are actively feeding.

Q: Where can I find redfish near Steinhatchee?

A: Focus on shallow grass flats, oyster bars, and backcountry areas around Marina at Deadman's Bay and Cross City South, especially in water 1-4 feet deep.

Q: Is redfish good to eat?

A: Yes, redfish have firm, white meat with a mild flavor that's excellent grilled, blackened, or fried, and they're high in protein and omega-3s.

Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?

A: Early morning and late afternoon during moving tides are prime times, especially in summer when fish seek cooler water temperatures.