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Caught a trophy Redfish Inshore in Milton
Redfish Fishing in Milton, FL
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The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus) is one of Florida's premier inshore game fish, beloved by anglers for its powerful fights and excellent table fare. These bronze-colored predators are easily identified by their distinctive black spot on the tail, which helps confuse predators in the wild. - Redfish typically range from 30-61 inches and can weigh between 10-45 pounds when fully mature. - They thrive in shallow coastal waters including flats, backcountry areas, and nearshore environments. - Milton's varied habitats provide ideal conditions for targeting these prized game fish.
Fishing Charter by Captain Jamie Hoover in August
Meet your Captain Jamie Hoover
- Emerald Coast Fishing Charters At Its Best!
Summary
Experience inshore fishing at its finest on a Saturday June charter with Addicted to Scales & Tail Charters in Milton, FL. Captain Jamie Hoover knows exactly where to find the prized Redfish that roam the waters around Garcon Point. During this 4-hour trip, you'll target these hard-fighting game fish using various techniques including jigging, fly fishing, and light tackle approaches. The local waters also hold Spotted Weakfish and Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks, making each trip an opportunity for diverse catches. With all fishing equipment provided and Captain Jamie's local expertise guiding you, this fishing charter offers both beginners and experienced anglers the perfect opportunity to land that trophy Redfish you've been dreaming about. Book early to secure the best dates during peak fishing season.
Fishing Charter with Jamie Hoover – Rates & Booking
Captain Jamie Hoover of Addicted to Scales & Tail Charters offers Saturday June fishing charters focused on the abundant Redfish population in Milton's inshore waters. The 4-Hour Inshore Trip includes all necessary fishing equipment, licenses, and expert guidance to put you on the fish. Whether you're interested in jigging, fly fishing, or working with light tackle, Captain Jamie adapts the approach to match conditions and your experience level. Our spacious, well-maintained vessel accommodates small groups comfortably, making this perfect for families or friends looking to experience Florida Panhandle fishing.
Highlights of 4 Hour Trip – Inshore (Day)
This half-day fishing adventure focuses on the productive waters around Garcon Point, an area known for consistent Redfish action. Even with partly cloudy skies and afternoon rain in the forecast, Captain Jamie knows exactly how to adjust tactics to keep you on the fish. The mixed-technique approach means everyone from novices to experienced anglers will enjoy the trip.
Beyond Redfish, you'll have opportunities to target Spotted Weakfish and even the occasional Atlantic Sharpnose Shark. The varied fishing environments—from deeper channels to structured areas—provide multiple opportunities to hook into quality fish. All trips include fish cleaning service for anything you want to keep, and Captain Jamie's local knowledge ensures you're fishing the most productive spots based on tide, weather and seasonal patterns.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus) thrive in Milton's diverse inshore ecosystem. These copper-colored predators with their distinctive tail spot prefer the shallow flats and deeper channels around Garcon Point, where they hunt for crustaceans, baitfish, and small prey. During summer months, targeting them with jigs, flies, or live bait during morning hours produces the best results.
Milton's waters offer ideal Redfish habitat with plenty of structure, varied depths, and abundant food sources. Captain Jamie specializes in reading the water and tidal movements to position you perfectly for these hard-fighting game fish. Their powerful runs and determined fights make landing a trophy Redfish an unforgettable experience that keeps anglers coming back to these fertile Florida Panhandle waters.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your charter departs from 281 Garcon Point Road in Milton, FL. The comfortable, well-equipped fishing vessel includes all the tackle you'll need—from fly rods to heavier gear for larger predators. Morning trips typically begin around 7:00 AM to take advantage of the most active feeding periods, though Captain Jamie adjusts start times based on tidal conditions for optimal fishing.
Dress in layers with sun protection, and bring any personal snacks or drinks you might want during your 4-hour adventure. A camera is essential for documenting your catch, as most Redfish are released after quick photos to sustain the fishery for future generations. With Captain Jamie's extensive local knowledge and dedication to customer satisfaction, you're in for a productive and memorable day on the water.
Fishing in Pensacola: Redfish
The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), a member of the Sciaenidae family in the order Perciformes, is one of the most sought-after game fish in Milton waters this June. With its distinctive copper-bronze coloration and characteristic black spot near the tail (sometimes multiple spots), this powerful fighter has earned its reputation as a premier inshore target for anglers visiting Florida's Panhandle region.
Redfish Overview
Redfish, also called Red Drum, are renowned for their strong pulls and determined fights when hooked. These powerful fish are highly adaptable predators that can thrive in various water conditions, from brackish backwaters to nearshore environments, making them accessible to anglers fishing from both shore and boats around Milton.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
In the Milton area, Redfish frequent shallow flats, oyster bars, mangrove shorelines, and deeper channels, especially around Garcon Point. They're particularly drawn to structure that provides both cover and feeding opportunities. These fish can tolerate a wide range of salinities, allowing them to move between freshwater influences and saltier environments based on seasonal patterns and food availability.
Redfish Size and Weight
Mature Redfish in the Milton region typically measure between 30 and 61 inches in length. Weight-wise, anglers can expect specimens ranging from 10 to 45 pounds. Trophy-sized "bull reds" (larger mature specimens) are most often encountered during fall spawning aggregations, while slot-sized fish are available year-round in inshore waters.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
These opportunistic feeders primarily target crustaceans (crabs, shrimp), small baitfish, and mollusks. What makes Redfish particularly exciting to catch is their feeding behavior—they often create visible "tailing" displays in shallow water as they tip downward to forage along the bottom, making their tails break the surface. They're most active during early morning and evening hours, especially around moving tides.
Redfish Spawning Season
Late summer through fall marks the peak spawning period for Redfish in Milton waters. During this time, mature fish gather in deeper channels and passes to form large spawning aggregations. Water temperature plays a crucial role, with 70-75°F being ideal for spawning activity. After spawning, juvenile redfish utilize protected backwater areas as nursery grounds.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
For Milton's Redfish, several techniques prove consistently effective. Sight fishing with light tackle and gold spoons works well in clear shallows during calm mornings. When targeting deeper channels around Garcon Point, soft plastic jigs bounced along the bottom often trigger strikes. In June, Milton anglers find success using topwater plugs during early morning sessions, especially around mangrove shorelines and areas with moving tidal water. Fly fishing with weighted crab patterns or Clouser minnows in tan or olive colors can be devastatingly effective when presented properly.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offers excellent table fare with firm, white flesh and a mild, sweet flavor that's not overly fishy. Its versatility in preparation makes it popular—whether blackened in classic Cajun style, grilled with light seasoning, or baked with herbs. The meat provides good nutritional value with high protein content and beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Most anglers prefer keeping mid-sized specimens (within legal slot limits) for optimal eating quality.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Redfish in Milton?
A: Live finger mullet, fresh-cut pinfish, and blue crabs work exceptionally well. For artificial lures, gold spoons, scented soft plastics in new penny or chartreuse colors, and weedless jerkbaits consistently produce strikes in Milton waters.
Q: Where can I find Redfish near Milton?
A: Garcon Point offers excellent Redfish habitat, particularly around oyster beds and channel edges. The flats and backwater areas around Blackwater Bay and East Bay also hold good concentrations, especially during moving tides.
Q: Is Redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, Redfish is considered excellent table fare with a mild, sweet flavor and firm texture. It's versatile for various cooking methods including grilling, blackening, and baking. Remember to adhere to local size regulations when harvesting.
Q: When is the best time to catch Redfish in Milton?
A: Early morning and late afternoon generally provide peak feeding activity. In June specifically, the first few hours after sunrise offer prime conditions before the Florida heat intensifies. Fishing moving tides (either incoming or outgoing) greatly improves your chances.
Q: Do I need heavy tackle to catch Redfish?
A: Medium-weight spinning gear with 15-20lb test line is typically sufficient for most Milton Redfish. However, when targeting larger bull reds in deeper channels or during fall spawning runs, heavier equipment may be beneficial to handle their powerful runs.
Q: What's the difference between Redfish and Red Snapper?
A: Though both share reddish coloration, they're entirely different species. Redfish (Red Drum) are inshore fish with a distinctive tail spot, while Red Snapper are offshore reef fish with bright red coloration and large eyes. Their habitats and fishing regulations differ significantly.
