Caught a trophy redfish Inshore in Milton

The Redfish (Sciaenops Ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, belongs to the Sciaenidae family in the order Perciformes. This iconic inshore species is immediately recognizable by its copper-bronze coloration and one or more distinctive black spots near its tail. In Milton waters this fall, anglers target these powerful gamefish for their strong fights and excellent table qualities, making them one of the most sought-after species in Florida's coastal waters.

Redfish Overview

Redfish are a premier inshore gamefish known for their powerful runs and ability to test both gear and angler. They're highly adaptable predators that can thrive in a variety of coastal habitats, from shallow flats to deeper channels and structure. Anglers prize them not only for their fighting ability but also for their excellent food value.

Redfish Habitat and Distribution

Redfish inhabit coastal waters from the Chesapeake Bay to the Gulf of Mexico, with particularly strong populations along Florida's Gulf Coast including the Milton and Pensacola areas. They prefer shallow, protected waters including grass flats, oyster bars, mangrove shorelines, and backcountry areas. Juvenile redfish often stay in estuaries while larger adults may venture into nearshore waters, especially during spawning season.

Redfish Size and Weight

These powerful fish typically range from 30 to 61 inches in length and can weigh between 10 and 45 pounds. In the Milton area, the average catch ranges from 20-30 inches, though trophy-sized fish exceeding 30 inches are regularly caught, particularly during fall and winter months when larger fish move into shallower waters.

Redfish Diet and Behavior

Redfish are opportunistic feeders that primarily target crustaceans including shrimp and crabs, as well as small baitfish and mullet. They often feed by tilting their bodies downward to root through bottom sediment, a behavior that sometimes reveals their location by exposing their tails above the water surface (known as "tailing"). They're most active during dawn and dusk but will feed throughout the day, especially during moving tides.

Redfish Spawning Season

In Gulf waters near Milton, redfish typically spawn from late August through October when water temperatures range between 70-75°F. During this period, large breeding adults form schools and move to nearshore waters around passes and inlets. After spawning, many larger fish return to inshore waters, creating excellent fall fishing opportunities in the Milton and Pensacola areas.

Redfish Fishing Techniques

For Milton redfish, three effective techniques stand out. First, sight fishing on shallow flats using gold spoons, soft plastic jerkbaits, or weedless-rigged shrimp imitations works well during clear conditions. Second, fishing around structure like docks, oyster bars, and mangrove edges with live shrimp, cut mullet, or scented soft plastics produces consistent results. Third, working deeper channels during falling tides with heavier jigs tipped with gulp shrimp can be deadly effective. In September, anglers around Milton find redfish concentrating around creek mouths and deeper holes as water temperatures begin cooling.

Redfish Is It Good to Eat?

Redfish is considered excellent table fare with firm, white flesh and a mild, sweet flavor. The meat holds up well to various cooking methods including grilling, blackening, baking, and frying. It's relatively low in fat but rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Most chefs recommend cooking redfish with the skin on to help keep the fillets together. Slot-sized fish (typically 18-27 inches in Florida) generally provide the best eating quality.

Redfish Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for Redfish in Milton?

A: Live shrimp, cut mullet, blue crabs, and fiddler crabs are all excellent natural baits for Milton redfish. For artificial lures, gold spoons, scented soft plastics like Gulp! shrimp, and weedless jerkbaits consistently produce good results in local waters.

Q: Where can I find Redfish near Milton?

A: In the Milton area, target grass flats, oyster bars, mangrove shorelines, and creek mouths in Pensacola Bay and the surrounding estuaries. During fall months, redfish often concentrate around deeper holes and channels during lower tides and move onto flats during higher tides.

Q: Is Redfish good to eat?

A: Yes, redfish is considered excellent table fare with a mild, sweet flavor and firm white flesh that works well with many cooking methods. Slot-sized fish generally provide the best eating quality.

Q: When is the best time to catch Redfish in Milton?

A: Fall (September through November) is arguably the best season for targeting redfish in Milton waters, as cooling temperatures bring increased activity and feeding. The best times are typically during moving tides, especially early morning and late afternoon. Many local anglers prefer fishing the last few hours of an outgoing tide when redfish concentrate in deeper holes and channels.

Q: What size redfish can I keep in Florida?

A: In most Florida waters, regulations allow keeping redfish within an 18-27 inch slot limit, with a daily bag limit of one or two fish per person depending on the specific zone. Always check the latest Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulations before your trip as rules can change.

Q: How can I identify a redfish from other similar species?

A: Redfish are easily identified by their copper-bronze coloration and one or more distinctive black spots at the base of their tail. They have a downward-facing mouth adapted for bottom feeding, and lack the barbels found on similar species like black drum.