When to Find Redfish in Florida: A Seasonal Guide for Surf Anglers

Redfish, also known as red drum, are one of Florida’s most iconic and sought-after species for surf fishing. Known for their strength and aggressive fighting, redfish provide an exciting challenge for anglers of all skill levels. Understanding when to find redfish is key to improving your chances of landing this prized fish. In this article, we’ll break down the seasonal movements of redfish in Florida, providing you with essential information on the best times of year, tides, and weather conditions for success.

Redfish Seasonal Movements in Florida

Redfish are typically found in Florida’s surf zone year-round, but their feeding patterns and migratory behavior can vary depending on the season. The following breakdown will help you target redfish during their most active times.

Spring (March to May)

• Best Time to Fish for Redfish: Spring is one of the most active times for redfish in Florida. As the water warms up, redfish move closer to shore and begin feeding more aggressively.

• Fishing Conditions: During this time, the waters are still relatively cool, which keeps redfish near the shallows, particularly around sandbars, mudflats, and mangroves.

• Fishing Tips: Look for redfish around estuaries and inlets. They are typically found in the surf zone, feeding on smaller fish and crustaceans.

Summer (June to August)

• Best Time to Fish for Redfish: Summer sees an increase in redfish activity, with the warmer waters providing the perfect conditions for feeding and growth.

• Fishing Conditions: While summer heat can make some fish sluggish, redfish are still plentiful. Early morning or late evening fishing can be particularly productive when water temperatures are cooler.

• Fishing Tips: Focus on flats and inlet mouths. Redfish tend to gather around areas with lots of food, including mangroves and grass beds.

Fall (September to November)

• Best Time to Fish for Redfish: Fall is an exceptional time for redfish fishing. With the cooling waters, redfish are actively feeding to prepare for winter, and they are found in large numbers along the Florida coastline.

• Fishing Conditions: Fall brings favorable conditions for both surf and pier fishing. Look for redfish around backwaters, estuaries, and grass flats.

• Fishing Tips: The cooler water temperatures mean redfish are more active. Tidal changes are particularly important in the fall, as they influence feeding behavior. Look for them around channels and sandbars.

Winter (December to February)

• Best Time to Fish for Redfish: Winter sees a decrease in the overall abundance of redfish, but they are still catchable, especially in the southern parts of Florida.

• Fishing Conditions: Redfish move into deeper waters during the colder months, but they remain active in warmer, shallow areas.

• Fishing Tips: Winter fishing can be slower, but early mornings or late afternoons provide the best chance. Focus on warmer waters near estuaries and backwaters.

Tidal Influence on Redfish Fishing

Redfish are known to be highly influenced by tidal patterns. Understanding these tidal cycles can help you increase your chances of success when targeting redfish.

• Incoming Tide: Redfish tend to move closer to shore during the incoming tide, feeding on smaller fish and crustaceans. This is often the best time to fish for redfish.

• Outgoing Tide: During the outgoing tide, redfish can be found in deeper waters or near structures such as mangroves, sandbars, or estuaries.

• Slack Tide: Slack tide, the period when the tide is neither incoming nor outgoing, is typically less productive for redfish as their feeding activity slows down.

Best Time of Day for Redfish Fishing

Redfish can be caught at any time of the day, but there are certain times when they are more likely to be active.

• Early Morning: Redfish are more active during the early morning hours, especially in the summer months. This is when the water is cooler, and the fish are more likely to feed.

• Late Afternoon: As the sun begins to set, redfish become more active again, especially if the tide is coming in.

• Midday: During the hot summer months, midday can be less productive as the water temperature rises and redfish retreat into deeper, cooler waters.

Weather Conditions for Redfish Fishing

Redfish are more likely to be active during overcast or cloudy days when the sun’s glare is minimized. On bright, sunny days, redfish tend to move into deeper waters or seek out shaded areas such as mangroves or sea grass beds.

Best Time to Find Redfish in Florida

The best time to find redfish in Florida is during the spring and fall, when the water temperatures are ideal for feeding. While redfish can be found year-round, their feeding activity is heightened during these seasons, particularly around tides and weather changes. Early mornings, late afternoons, and the incoming tide are generally the best times of day to fish for redfish. Understanding these seasonal patterns and conditions will give you the edge you need to successfully target redfish in Florida.