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Caught a 20inch redfish Inshore in Milton
Redfish Fishing in Milton, FL
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Redfish, also known as Red Drum (Sciaenops ocellatus), are one of the most sought-after inshore gamefish along the Gulf Coast. These powerful fighters are known for their distinctive copper coloration and black spot near the tail, which serves as a false eye to confuse predators. - They typically range from 30-61 inches in length and 10-45 pounds in weight. - Their habitat includes shallow flats, backcountry areas, and nearshore waters around Milton, FL. - Redfish are prized both for their sporting quality and excellent table fare.
Fishing Charter by Captain Jamie Hoover in August
Meet your Captain Jamie Hoover
- Emerald Coast Fishing Charters At Its Best!
Summary
Tuesday June brought clear skies and prime fishing conditions for our 4-hour inshore charter in Milton, FL. We launched from Avalon early in the day, focusing on productive redfish spots in the local waters. Using specialized inshore techniques, we landed a nice 20-inch redfish that gave everyone a good fight. Even when afternoon rain moved in, we kept working the area, showing our guests the best approaches for targeting these popular gamefish. Addicted to Scales & Tail Charters provides everything needed for a successful day on the water, whether you're an experienced angler or trying inshore fishing for the first time. Milton's diverse waterways offer excellent opportunities for redfish action year-round, with summer being particularly productive when you know the right spots and methods.
Fishing Charter with Jamie Hoover – Rates & Booking
Captain Jamie Hoover of Addicted to Scales & Tail Charters on Tuesday June led this 4-hour inshore fishing trip from Avalon. We specialize in getting clients on quality redfish action throughout Milton's productive waterways. Our rates include all necessary fishing gear, licenses, and expert guidance on the water. Whether you're looking to target redfish specifically or want to experience the best of what local inshore fishing has to offer, we've got you covered. Book online for availability, or call us directly to customize your charter experience. Summer dates fill quickly, so securing your spot in advance is recommended.
Highlights of this Inshore Charter
This inshore trip delivered exactly what Milton fishing is known for - a quality redfish catch in beautiful surroundings. We landed a solid 20-inch redfish using jigging techniques in some of our favorite local spots. The clear morning conditions were perfect for spotting activity, and even though the bite wasn't red hot, landing that redfish was definitely the highlight of our day.
Throughout the trip, we demonstrated various inshore fishing methods that work well in Milton's waters, giving our guests practical experience they can use on future outings. Even when afternoon rain moved in, we adjusted our approach and continued working productive areas. The versatility of inshore fishing techniques really shines in these conditions, making it an excellent option regardless of your experience level.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish are one of Milton's premier inshore gamefish, known for their strong fights and distinctive copper coloration with a black spot near the tail. They thrive in our shallow flats, backcountry areas, and nearshore waters, making them accessible to anglers year-round. Summer is particularly productive as redfish actively feed in shallower waters during warming trends.
When targeting Milton redfish, jigging techniques often produce the best results, especially around structure and grass flats. These fish respond well to both artificial lures and natural baits like shrimp or cut mullet. Their predictable feeding patterns make them ideal targets for both beginners and experienced anglers looking for consistent action on light tackle.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Our inshore charters accommodate up to 4 anglers comfortably, with morning trips typically starting at 6:30 AM during summer months to take advantage of the best fishing conditions. We provide quality rods, reels, tackle, and bait, along with all necessary licenses. Guests should bring sun protection, comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather, and any preferred snacks or drinks. Our boat is well-maintained with ample shade and comfortable seating to ensure a pleasant day on the water regardless of conditions.
Fishing in Pensacola: Redfish
The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), a member of the Sciaenidae family in the order Perciformes, is one of the most prized gamefish in Milton waters. Known for its distinctive copper-red coloration and characteristic black spot near the tail, this powerful inshore fighter delivers exciting action for anglers visiting Florida's Gulf Coast region.
Redfish Overview
Redfish, also called Red Drum, are a cornerstone species for inshore anglers throughout the southeastern United States. Their fighting ability, widespread availability, and excellent table fare make them highly sought after by recreational fishermen. In Milton waters, they represent one of the most reliable year-round fishing opportunities.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
These adaptable fish thrive in various coastal environments including flats, backcountry marshes, mangrove shorelines, and nearshore waters. Around Milton, FL, redfish can be found in the protected bays, grass flats, oyster bars, and along shorelines with structure. They're particularly fond of areas with shifting tides that concentrate baitfish.
Redfish Size and Weight
Typical redfish in the Milton area range from 18-30 inches (known as "slot fish"), though they can grow much larger. According to fishery data, the species can reach impressive dimensions of 30-61 inches in length and 10-45 pounds in weight. Trophy "bull reds" exceeding 30 pounds are occasionally caught in deeper channels and passes, particularly during spawning aggregations.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Redfish are opportunistic predators with a diet primarily consisting of crustaceans (crabs, shrimp) and small fish like mullet, pinfish, and menhaden. They often feed in shallow water, sometimes with their backs exposed while rooting for prey in bottom sediment. Their feeding behavior creates distinctive "tailing" displays that alert observant anglers to their presence in shallow flats.
Redfish Spawning Season
In Milton waters, redfish typically spawn from late summer through fall when water temperatures are optimal. During this period, larger breeding fish often move to nearshore waters and passes to form spawning aggregations. This migration pattern creates excellent opportunities for anglers to target larger specimens, particularly during the fall months when cooling temperatures trigger increased feeding activity.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
For Milton redfish, several proven techniques consistently produce results. Jigging with soft plastics or bucktail jigs around structure and drop-offs works exceptionally well, especially when matched to the dominant baitfish color. Live bait fishing with finger mullet, pinfish, or shrimp under a popping cork is deadly effective in grassy flats. In June, anglers around Milton find success targeting redfish along mangrove shorelines and oyster bars during moving tides, particularly during early morning or late afternoon feeding periods.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish are excellent table fare, offering white, flaky meat with a mild, sweet flavor that isn't overly fishy. They're best prepared blackened, grilled, or baked, with the smaller "slot size" fish (typically 18-27 inches in Florida) providing the most tender flesh. Nutritionally, redfish is high in protein and contains beneficial omega-3 fatty acids while maintaining relatively low mercury levels compared to many other saltwater species.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish in Milton?
A: Live shrimp, cut mullet, and blue crabs are top natural baits for Milton redfish. For artificial lures, gold spoons, soft plastic jerkbaits in white or chartreuse, and scented soft plastics like Gulp! shrimp are consistent producers.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Milton?
A: Redfish in the Milton area are commonly found around Escambia Bay, Blackwater Bay, and East Bay. Look for them around oyster bars, grass flats, mangrove shorelines, and creek mouths, especially during moving tides.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish is excellent eating with mild, white flesh that works well with various cooking methods. The meat has a sweet flavor that's not overly fishy, making it popular even among those who don't typically enjoy seafood.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish in Milton?
A: While redfish can be caught year-round in Milton, peak seasons are typically spring and fall when water temperatures are moderate. Early morning and evening hours generally produce the best action, particularly during moving tides.
Q: What size redfish can you keep in Florida?
A: Florida regulations typically allow harvest of redfish between 18-27 inches total length (slot limit), with a daily bag limit of one fish per person. Always check current regulations before your trip as limits can change.
Q: What tackle should I use for redfish?
A: Medium-light to medium spinning gear with 10-20 lb test line works well for most Milton redfish situations. A 7-foot rod provides good casting distance while maintaining enough backbone to handle these strong fighters.
