Redfish are starting to show in good numbers around the barrier islands of North Pinellas County. The high tides are producing the bigger fish, although lower tides concentrate high numbers into potholes and edges of the grass flats. Pinfish with a small split shot works best, keeping them in the sand hole or edges. They will flutter and vibrate in an effort to escape, drawing attention from foraging redfish. Live shrimp have also worked well, especially when tucked under overhanging mangroves on the higher tides. This winter has seen an abundance of small redfish which usually is a sign of a good season to come. There are a few groups of larger fish schooling just prior to new moon and full moon phases. Before the tides get too high, it’s easy to spot the redfish schools, pushing the water in a very evident way, different than how mullet schools will move. Once you begin to identify the movement of redfish versus other fish in the area, your keen eyesight can lead to very productive fishing on the flats. Polarized sunglasses are a tool that cannot be under estimated. The ability to see the fish flashing or rolling from a distance is crucial in following schools of redfish. As the water depth increase, their wakes decrease so it is important to be able to see them visually. Conditions have to be right. The sun has to be in the right position. If all else fails, start fan casting into groups of mullet that are sometimes easier to find as they leap from the water. Redfish often forage around mullet as they scare up a small bait fish.
- Captains Corner - March 23, 2024
- Brian Caudill - March 4, 2024
- Brian Caudill - December 5, 2023
