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Caught a Redfish Inshore in Milton Milton
Redfish Inshore in Milton, FL
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Redfish, scientifically known as Sciaenops Ocellatus, are one of the most sought-after inshore gamefish in Milton's waters. These powerful fighters belong to the Sciaenidae family and are easily identified by their copper-red coloration and characteristic black spot near the tail. - Redfish typically measure between 30-61 inches in length and weigh 10-45 pounds when fully grown. - They thrive in shallow waters around oyster bars, grass flats, and mangroves. - Milton's diverse inshore habitat creates perfect conditions for targeting these prized gamefish.
Fishing Charter by Captain Jamie Hoover in August
Meet your Captain Jamie Hoover
- Emerald Coast Fishing Charters At Its Best!
Summary
An early summer day on the water with Addicted to Scales & Tail Charters in Milton, FL produced a solid 20-inch redfish catch. Our Tuesday June inshore fishing charter launched from Avalon under clear skies, with perfect water conditions for targeting redfish. Using specialized inshore fishing techniques, we worked the local waters thoroughly before connecting with our target species. Even when the afternoon rain moved in, we kept at it, making the most of our time on Milton's productive waters. Whether you're after redfish, speckled trout, or whatever's biting, our 4-hour charters offer the perfect opportunity to experience the best inshore fishing Milton has to offer.
Fishing Charter with Jamie Hoover – Rates & Booking
Captain Jamie Hoover of Addicted to Scales & Tail Charters offers Tuesday June fishing charters in Milton, FL. Our 4-hour inshore fishing trips are perfect for anglers of all experience levels looking to target redfish and other local species. We provide all the necessary fishing gear, licenses, and expert guidance to put you on fish. Launching from Avalon gives us quick access to prime fishing grounds where redfish are active. Whether you're a seasoned angler or this is your first time fishing, we'll ensure you have a productive day on the water. Book your Milton inshore fishing adventure today—spaces fill quickly during summer months!
Highlights of Inshore Fishing in Milton
Our inshore fishing trips focus on the productive waters around Milton, where redfish are one of our primary targets. Using specialized techniques like jigging and fly fishing, we work the flats and backwaters where these prized gamefish hunt. The 20-inch redfish we caught demonstrates the quality of fishing available in these waters, even when conditions change throughout the day.
Milton's diverse waterways offer excellent inshore fishing opportunities year-round, but summer brings particularly active fish. Our local knowledge means we can adjust tactics based on conditions, whether targeting structure, working grass flats, or finding moving water where redfish are feeding. The clear waters in this area also allow for exciting sight fishing opportunities when conditions are right.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish in Milton thrive in the shallow, clear waters that characterize our local flats and backcountry areas. These copper-colored predators with their distinctive tail spot are ambush feeders that love structure and moving water. During summer months, we find them in 1-4 feet of water, often hunting along grass edges, oyster bars, and near docks.
For the best results, we employ a variety of techniques from jigging soft plastics to fly fishing, depending on conditions and client preference. Redfish in our waters typically range from 18-30 inches, with the 20-inch specimen we caught being a solid representative of our local population. Their powerful runs and stubborn fights make them a favorite among anglers visiting Milton's waters.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Our fishing charters accommodate small groups, making them perfect for family outings or fishing with friends. We typically begin early morning to take advantage of the best fishing conditions, though we can adjust start times based on tides and weather. Our boat is fully equipped with quality rods, reels, tackle, and safety equipment. We recommend bringing sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, a hat, and weather-appropriate clothing. Don't forget your camera to document your catch! Light snacks and water are provided, but feel free to bring additional refreshments. Remember that weather conditions can change quickly, so layering is always a good strategy for comfort throughout your fishing charter.
Fishing in Pensacola: Redfish
The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, is a popular gamefish belonging to the Sciaenidae family within the order Perciformes. Known for its distinctive copper-bronze coloration and black spot near the tail, this species is a prized catch for anglers fishing Milton's inshore waters during summer months.
Redfish Overview
Redfish are renowned for their fighting ability and table quality, making them one of the most targeted inshore species along the Gulf Coast. These powerful fish are known for their strong runs and stubborn fights, providing excellent sport on light to medium tackle. In Milton, FL, redfish are a staple target for local anglers and visiting fishermen alike.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
These adaptable fish thrive in various coastal environments including flats, backcountry areas, nearshore waters, and around structure such as oyster bars and mangroves. In Milton's waters, redfish can be found in shallow areas ranging from 1-4 feet deep, particularly around grass flats, creek mouths, and shallow bays. They tolerate a wide range of salinities, allowing them to move between freshwater influences and saltier areas.
Redfish Size and Weight
Adult redfish typically measure between 30-61 inches in length and weigh anywhere from 10-45 pounds. The 20-inch redfish caught on our Milton charter represents a good average inshore specimen. As they mature, redfish (particularly those over 27 inches often called "bull reds") tend to move to deeper offshore waters, while younger fish remain in the inshore ecosystems.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Redfish are opportunistic feeders with a diet consisting primarily of crustaceans, small fish, and mollusks. They often feed by tilting their bodies downward, using their sensitive barbels to detect prey in the sediment. In Milton waters, they can frequently be spotted "tailing" in shallow areas during high tide periods, where their tail breaks the surface as they root for food in the bottom structure.
Redfish Spawning Season
Redfish typically spawn from late summer through fall in nearshore waters. In Milton, spawning activity increases around August through October when water temperatures are optimal. During this time, large schools of breeding redfish can be found in deeper channels and passes where they produce their characteristic drumming sound that gives them their alternate name.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
For targeting redfish in Milton's waters, several techniques prove effective. Soft plastic jigs in white, gold, or natural shrimp colors worked slowly along the bottom can be deadly, especially around structure. Gold spoons retrieved at a moderate pace work well in slightly deeper water. Fly fishing enthusiasts do well with crab or shrimp patterns in sizes 2-4. In June around Milton, anglers often find success targeting redfish around oyster bars and creek mouths during moving tides, particularly on the outgoing tide when water is pulling bait from the shallows.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish are considered excellent table fare, known for their mild, sweet flavor and medium-firm white flesh. The meat holds up well to various cooking methods including grilling, blackening, and baking. They're nutritionally rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. In Florida, redfish are managed as a conservation species with specific slot limits, so be sure to check current regulations before harvesting.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish in Milton?
A: Live shrimp, finger mullet, and cut pinfish are all excellent natural baits for redfish in Milton waters. Artificial lures like gold spoons, soft plastic shrimp imitations, and weedless jerkbaits are also very effective.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Milton, FL?
A: Redfish in the Milton area are commonly found around oyster bars, shallow grass flats, creek mouths, and along mangrove shorelines. The areas around Avalon and Escambia Bay hold good populations of redfish year-round.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish is considered excellent table fare with a mild, sweet flavor and medium-firm white flesh. It's versatile for various cooking methods and is particularly popular blackened or grilled.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish in Milton?
A: While redfish can be caught year-round in Milton, many anglers find spring and fall offer the most consistent action. Summer fishing can be productive during early morning and evening hours when temperatures are cooler. In June specifically, targeting them on moving tides often yields the best results.
Q: What tackle should I use for redfish in Milton?
A: Medium action spinning gear with 15-20 lb test line works well for most redfish situations in Milton. A 7-foot rod paired with a 3000-4000 size reel provides good casting distance and enough backbone to handle these strong fighters.
Q: What are the regulations for keeping redfish in Florida?
A: Florida regulations typically restrict redfish to a specific slot size limit (currently 18-27 inches) and limit anglers to one fish per person per day. Always check current regulations before your trip as they may change seasonally.
