Redfish Fishing in Southwest Florida

Redfish, also called red drum or reds, are one of Southwest Florida's most dependable inshore targets. Their copper sides and distinctive tail spot stand out in clear shallow water, while their broad shoulders make them surprisingly powerful on light tackle.

Reds feed over grass, sand, oyster, and mangrove-lined shorelines, often rooting for crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish. The right tide can put schools within casting range on shallow flats, especially as water cools.

Most fish encountered locally measure 18 to 30 inches, but overslot bull reds can exceed 50 inches. These larger fish are memorable fighters and deserve careful handling before release.