Redfish can get pretty big, and if you’re not familiar with the best ways to catch them, you might end up frustrated.
Not only are redfish a blast to catch, but they’re also one of the most popular sport fish in North America. If you want to reel in one of these beauties, you need to know what you’re doing.
Read this artical by Todd Vogel to discover more about redfish and have some tips to catch them. We’ll help make sure that your next fishing trip is a success.
Characteristics of the Redfish
What is the Redfish?
A redfish, or red drum, is a fish that gets its name from its coloration. The back of the redfish is dark reddish-bronze in color, and the sides are lighter with a purple hue. The belly of the fish is white. Redfish have distinctive eyes, with a yellow iris and a deep red pupil. The fish has two barbels (whisker-like appendages) on its lower jaw. Redfish can grow to be quite large, with some individuals reaching over 90 cm (3 ft) in length and weighing over 18 kg (40 lb).
How big do redfish get?
The record for the biggest redfish ever caught was set in the seas off of Cape Hatteras, in the state of North Carolina. This incredible redfish came in at a weight of 94 pounds and 2 ounces.
The redfish that weighed 52 pounds and 5 ounces set a new state record for size in Florida. The seas off the coast of Cocoa, Florida, are where the monstrous redfish was reeled in.
Habitat of the Redfish
The redfish is found in the shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico. It prefers to stay near the bottom where there is plenty of cover such as reefs, shipwrecks, and sea grass beds. The fish will also enter brackish waters at times.
Diet of the Redfish
The redfish feeds on small fish, shrimp, crabs, and squid. It will also eat mollusks and other bottom-dwelling creatures.
Behavior of the Redfish
The redfish is a solitary fish that only comes together during the spawning season. The fish will migrate long distances to mate. After mating, the female redfish will lay up to 4 million eggs which are fertilized by the male. The eggs hatch after about 10 days and the young fish are called fry. The fry will stay in shallow waters until they reach maturity.
Redfish are an important game fish in the Gulf of Mexico and are popular among anglers. The fish can be caught using a variety of baits and lures. The best time to fish for redfish is during the spring and fall when they are actively feeding.
Next is what you need to know to catch a red drum.
Catch a redfish
Where to find it?
The redfish is found in the Gulf of Mexico. It prefers to stay near the bottom where there is plenty of cover such as reefs, shipwrecks, and sea grass beds. The fish will also enter brackish waters at times.
How to catch a redfish?
The redfish is a popular game fish that can be caught using a variety of baits and lures. The best time to fish for redfish is during the spring and fall when they are actively feeding. Anglers can use live bait such as shrimp or crabs to catch redfish. They can also use artificial lures such as jigs and spoons. When fishing for redfish, it is important to use heavy tackle due to the size and strength of the fish.
Top 6 tips for catching Redfish
- Use live bait such as shrimp or crabs.
- Use artificial lures such as jigs and spoons.
- Use heavy tackle due to the size and strength of the fish.
- Use a rod and reel that are rated for saltwater fishing.
- Use line that is at least 20-pound test.
- Use a leader to prevent the line from being cut by the fish’s teeth.
F.A.Q how big do redfish get
What is the biggest redfish ever caught?
The biggest redfish ever caught was 94 pounds and 2 ounces. This fish was caught off the coast of Cape Hatteras, in the state of North Carolina.
How old is a 27 inch redfish?
A 27 inch redfish is about 3-4 years old. Redfish can live to be up to 28 years old.
What is considered a big redfish?
A big redfish is any fish that is over 30 inches long.
What is the average size of a red fish?
The average size of a redfish is about 18-20 inches long. However, they can grow to be up to 28 inches long.
Conclusion
Redfish can get quite large and provide a thrilling fishing experience. Redfish are definitely worth your time if you’re looking for a challenging fish to reel in. Have you had any success catching redfish? Let us know in the comments below!