Redfish are among the most sought-after inshore saltwater game fish out there. I can attest to how fun they are to target and fight, but they’re also beautiful and delicious to boot. If you’ve ever targeted them on a rod and reel, you probably already know this. But have you ever been fly fishing for Redfish?
If you’re looking for more of a challenge, this is perfect for you. An angling experience like this is far from easy, but it’s very rewarding. You’ll need to learn skills, specialized flies, and much more to come out on top against these wily creatures. And that’s why I’m here! As we break down this article, you’ll gain a lot of knowledge that will prepare you for your Redfish fly fishing adventure!
Why go fly fishing for Redfish?
Fly fishing for Redfish is something you should try if you want a testing but thrilling and immersive experience that differs from conventional angling. Unlike traditional spinning setups or bait casters, fly fishing involves a big wind-up, a long and precise cast, and a delicate presentation of a super light artificial fly. This requires skill, patience, and precision, making every catch more rewarding. It’s harder than it looks so you’ll want to put in some effort and practice for sure!
Redfish are known for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs, so they’re the perfect species for fly fishing. They chase flies in shallow water, where you can search for and stalk species in clear, shallow water, adding an exciting touch that spin fishing often lacks. Fly fishing is usually best for sight fishing because you’ll be quiet, making fewer splashes, and, therefore, won’t spook the fish as much. But the adrenaline rush of watching a Redfish inhale a fly makes it a thrilling experience.
How to Go Fly Fishing for Redfish
Knowing how to use a fly rod is very important when it comes to fly fishing. It’s very different from a traditional setup, with the biggest difference being the line. A fly line is typically thicker and has a bit of a rubbery look and feel. You have to wind up the line with a lasso-type movement in order to build up momentum. Essentially, you want to look like you have a big whip (like a lasso) that’s lifted off the ground. Once you get all the line off the ground you can give a big backward then forward whip motion in the direction you want to cast.
Let your fly sit for a bit and then you can jerk it slightly to attract some attention. If you don’t receive a bite, start again a little further down. The best habitats to try out when fly fishing for Redfish consist of mangrove lines, grassy and sandy flats, lagoons, bays, oyster beds, and areas with surrounding structure.
When it comes to gear, a 7–9 wt fly rod paired with a matching saltwater-resistant reel is ideal for handling the power of Redfish and the surrounding structure. Weight-forward tapers help with accurate casting, especially in shallow flats. A 9–12′ fluorocarbon leader weighing 30 pounds and up provides strength, stealth, and breakage resistance.
Of course, the piece de resistance is your choice of flies. Good Redfish lures include those imitating shrimp, crab, and bait fish with natural colors like red, pink, blue, green, tan, and gold. Colorful and unique lures also have been known to see strikes, too.
Polarized sunglasses, wading boots, and overalls help with sight and mobility in shallow areas. You can also get a stripping basket to manage your fly line, as well as a quality pair of pliers for a quick hook removal. A net can also come in handy for scooping up your catches.
With the right setup, gear, and flies, you’ll be well-prepared to take on the challenge of fly fishing for Redfish!
Redfish Fly Fishing Spots
Redfish thrive in a variety of habitats, making them a prime target for fly anglers across the southeastern US and beyond. You can commonly find them in shallow flats, marshes, oyster beds, and mangrove shorelines, where they hunt for shrimp, crabs, and different bait fish. Fly fishing for Redfish in these areas is particularly exciting as they often tail in shallow water while feeding.
Whether you prefer fishing from land, wading, kayak fishing, or fishing from a boat, there are plenty of top-tier locations to chase Redfish on the fly. Here are some prime Redfish fly fishing spots to keep in mind for your next trip:
- Florida: Mosquito Lagoon, the Everglades, the Florida Keys
- Louisiana: Biloxi Marsh, Venice, Grand Isle
- Texas: Laguna Madre, Port Aransas, Galveston Bay
- South Carolina: Charleston Harbor, Beaufort, Hilton Head Island
- North Carolina: Pamlico Sound, Cape Lookout, Crystal Coast
These locations offer incredible opportunities for fly fishing for Redfish in beautiful and diverse environments. Not only can they fulfill your fishing dreams but they’re excellent locations to visit and explore!
When to Go Fly Fishing for Redfish
Redfish are available year-round but they’re particularly abundant – and big – in late summer and fall. Winter is the closest it comes to an off-season but, the further south you are, the less of an impact the seasons will have.
Cooler temperatures around dawn and dusk hours in spring and fall encourage them to come out and play, while the feeding frenzies and heavy fish traffic during the summer fire them up. Redfish also like to come out during strong currents when the bait is being pushed around a lot.
You can catch them in any conditions but the best results usually occur during calm and sunny weather.
Get Ready: Fly Fishing for Redfish Awaits
Fly fishing for Redfish is an unforgettable experience that combines skill, strategy, and plenty of thrills. Whether you’re casting in the marshes of Louisiana, the shallow flats of Florida, or the estuaries of the Carolinas, Redfish provide exciting challenges and rewarding catches. With the right gear, you’ll be prepared to handle their powerful runs and aggressive strikes. No matter your experience level, the pursuit of Redfish on the fly offers a deep connection to the water, the environment, and the art of angling. So start gathering the details… Your next trip awaits!
Are you a keen Redfish fly angler? Share your tips and experiences with us! Maybe you’re new to the sport? Ask us anything in the comments below!
