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Caught Two Redfish Inshore in Milton
Redfish Fishing in Milton
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The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus) is one of the most sought-after inshore gamefish in Milton, Florida. Known for their distinctive copper-red coloration and black spot near the tail, these fighters put up an impressive battle on light tackle. During summer months in Milton waters, Redfish are typically found in shallow flats and around structure where they feed aggressively on crustaceans and baitfish. - Redfish in this area commonly range from 14-20 inches, with larger specimens possible. - Their characteristic tail spot helps anglers identify them quickly. - They're known for powerful initial runs when hooked.
Fishing Charter by Captain Jamie Hoover in August
Meet your Captain Jamie Hoover
- Emerald Coast Fishing Charters At Its Best!
Summary
Captain Jamie Hoover of Addicted to Scales & Tail Charters delivered an action-packed Friday June inshore fishing charter in Milton, FL. Despite morning rain, the weather cleared for a productive 6-hour trip around Garcon Point. Carter and crew enjoyed non-stop bites, landing multiple redfish including solid 15-inch catches. The group experienced diverse fishing techniques including jigging, surf casting, and trolling—perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers. Milton's summer inshore waters provide excellent redfish opportunities, with the shallow waters around Garcon Point offering consistent action. All fishing equipment is provided on this family-friendly charter, making it an ideal way to experience the best of Florida's Gulf Coast fishing.
Fishing Charter with Jamie Hoover – Rates & Booking
Captain Jamie Hoover of Addicted to Scales & Tail Charters on Friday June offers a 6-Hour Inshore Fishing Charter that's perfect for targeting Milton's abundant redfish population. This trip includes all necessary fishing equipment, expert guidance, and fish cleaning services. Licensed and experienced in these local waters, Captain Jamie specializes in helping anglers of all skill levels enjoy a successful day on the water. The charter accommodates small groups, making it ideal for family outings or fishing with friends. Morning trips typically start early to take advantage of prime fishing conditions, but afternoon options are available as well.
Highlights of 6-Hour Inshore Day Trip
This Milton inshore fishing charter delivers consistent redfish action in the productive waters around Garcon Point. Even when weather conditions aren't perfect—like the morning rain on this trip—Captain Jamie knows exactly where to find feeding fish. The shallow water redfish opportunities are excellent during summer months, with most catches in the 14-17 inch range providing exciting fights on light tackle.
You'll experience multiple fishing techniques during your trip, including jigging, surf casting, and trolling, which keeps the day interesting and increases your chances of success. Captain Jamie provides personalized instruction, making this charter suitable for both novice anglers looking to learn new skills and experienced fishermen wanting to target specific species. The comfortable boat and all necessary equipment ensure you'll have everything needed for a productive day on the water.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish in Milton's waters thrive in the shallow flats and backwater areas around Garcon Point, where depths of 1-4 feet provide ideal feeding grounds. During summer months, these copper-colored gamefish are particularly active in early mornings and late afternoons when water temperatures are moderate. Captain Jamie targets them using light spinning tackle with soft plastic lures, gold spoons, and occasionally live bait like finger mullet or shrimp.
The redfish in this area typically range from 14-20 inches—perfect for light tackle action and excellent table fare if you choose to keep your catch. Year-round residents in Milton's waters, redfish become more concentrated in the cooler months but provide reliable action throughout summer as well. Their distinctive tail spot and powerful runs make them a favorite target for both novice and experienced anglers visiting Florida's Gulf Coast.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
When booking with Addicted to Scales & Tail Charters, you'll be fishing aboard a well-maintained boat equipped with quality rods, reels, and tackle—all included in your charter rate. The vessel comfortably accommodates small groups, providing enough space for everyone to fish effectively. Morning charters typically begin around sunrise (5:30-6:00 AM in summer), taking advantage of cooler temperatures and more active fish.
It's recommended to bring sun protection, weather-appropriate clothing, food and drinks, and a camera to document your catch. Captain Jamie practices both catch-and-release and will clean any fish you're legally allowed to keep if you'd like to enjoy them for dinner. A fishing license isn't required for guided trips, as you'll be covered under the charter's license. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak summer fishing season in Milton.
Fishing in Pensacola: Redfish
The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, belongs to the Sciaenidae family within the order Perciformes. This iconic gamefish is instantly recognizable by its coppery-red back that fades to white on the belly and the distinctive black spot near its tail—sometimes featuring multiple spots. In Milton waters this June, these prized fighters provide some of the most exciting light tackle action available to inshore anglers.
Redfish Overview
Redfish are one of the most sought-after inshore species along the Gulf Coast, prized by anglers for their strong fights and excellent table fare. They're a remarkably adaptable species that can tolerate wide ranges of salinity, from nearly freshwater to full ocean conditions, making them accessible to anglers in various settings throughout the year.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
These versatile fish thrive in shallow coastal waters, particularly around oyster bars, grass flats, mangrove shorelines, and sandy bottoms. In the Milton area, they're commonly found in depths of 1-4 feet around Garcon Point and throughout the bay systems. Juvenile redfish often stick to backwater areas and creeks, while larger specimens may venture into deeper channels and nearshore waters.
Redfish Size and Weight
Redfish typically measure between 30 and 61 inches when fully grown, with weights ranging from 10 to 45 pounds. The average catch in Milton's inshore waters tends to be in the 14-20 inch range, perfect for both sport and table fare. Trophy-sized "bull reds" exceeding 30 inches are occasionally caught, especially in deeper channels during certain seasons.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
These opportunistic feeders primarily consume crustaceans like shrimp and crabs, as well as small baitfish. Their feeding behavior is often visible as they cruise shallow flats with their backs and tails occasionally breaking the surface—a phenomenon known as "tailing." Redfish are most active during dawn and dusk, though in Milton's summer waters, they can be caught throughout the day when targeting shaded areas during the hottest hours.
Redfish Spawning Season
Spawning activity for redfish peaks in late summer through fall, typically from August through October in the Gulf waters near Milton. During this time, mature redfish gather in large schools near passes and deeper water. Water temperature plays a crucial role in triggering spawning behavior, with optimal conditions around 70-75°F. After spawning, many adult fish return to inshore waters while others may remain in deeper areas.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
For Milton redfish, light to medium spinning tackle with 10-20 lb test line works perfectly. Top artificial lures include gold spoons, soft plastic jerkbaits in white or chartreuse, and weedless jigs worked slowly along bottom structure. Live bait enthusiasts find success with finger mullet, shrimp, or cut pinfish. In June, anglers around Milton often target redfish during incoming tides when they move onto shallow flats to feed, focusing on points, creek mouths, and areas with obvious bait activity.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offers excellent table fare with firm, white fillets that have a mild, sweet flavor and medium flake. It's versatile in preparation—blackened, grilled, broiled or baked—all highlight its natural flavor. From a nutritional standpoint, redfish is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while remaining relatively low in mercury compared to other larger game fish, making it a healthy choice for regular consumption.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish in Milton?
A: Live shrimp, finger mullet, and cut pinfish are top natural baits for Milton redfish. For artificial lures, gold spoons, soft plastic shrimp imitations, and weedless jerkbaits in white or natural colors produce consistent results, especially when worked slowly along bottom structure.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Milton?
A: Garcon Point is a proven redfish hotspot near Milton, with productive fishing in 1-4 feet of water. Focus on areas with oyster bars, grass flats, creek mouths, and mangrove shorelines during moving tides. During summer months, early mornings and evenings typically provide the most consistent action.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish is excellent table fare with a mild, sweet flavor and medium-firm texture that holds up well to various cooking methods. The fillets are white with little "fishy" taste, making them popular even among people who don't typically enjoy seafood. Blackening is a traditional preparation, but grilling and baking also produce delicious results.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish in Milton?
A: In Milton, redfish can be caught year-round, but summer through fall (June-November) typically offers the most consistent action. Early mornings and late afternoons during moving tides provide prime feeding times. Incoming tides that push water onto shallow flats often trigger the most aggressive feeding behavior.
Q: What size redfish can I keep in Florida?
A: Florida regulations allow anglers to keep redfish between 18-27 inches total length, with a daily bag limit of one fish per person. Always check current regulations before fishing, as slot limits and bag limits can change. Chartering with a licensed guide ensures you'll have up-to-date information on legal harvest sizes.
Q: What tackle should I use for redfish?
A: Medium-light to medium spinning tackle with 2500-4000 size reels spooled with 10-20 lb braided line works well for Milton redfish. A 20-30 lb fluorocarbon leader improves bite rates in clear water. 7-foot rods with moderate-fast action provide the sensitivity needed to detect subtle strikes while maintaining enough backbone to control these powerful fighters.
