Catching redfish in the winter, especially during the colder months, can still be very productive. The style in which reds roam and feed during the winter is very different from how these strong fish behave in warmer months, when they are far more energetic and active.
Redfish move significantly less when the temperature becomes colder, and they become much more sluggish as a result. As the angler, you can make a few slight changes to adapt to the colder patterns and increase your success. Let's explore the best winter fishing techniques, recommended gear, and bait to maximize your chances of catching redfish.
Best Bait For Redfish In The Winter
Redfish are scavengers with a primary concern of finding something to eat. In the colder months, they are less aggressive, making them less likely to attack fast-moving prey. That's where using a scented lure, such as a Berkley Gulp!, can give you the edge for a strike. A strong-smelling bait can entice even the laziest redfish to bite.
The Gulp glow shrimp in 3in” with chartreuse or pearl Gulp with hot pink tail are excellent choices for winter fishing. Both work great under a popping cork, which allows for a slower, more enticing presentation.
Live bait, such as finger mullet, croaker, and shrimp (live or fresh-dead), always perform well for redfish. If live bait is unavailable, cut bait can also be an effective alternative during colder months.
Fish With A Slower Retrieve
Slowing down your retrieve is key to catching redfish in the winter. By casting your bait farther, reeling it in slower, and allowing it to sit for longer periods, you can better mimic the natural movement of prey in colder water. This gives redfish more time to approach and strike.
Many anglers find success using a 7-foot medium-action rod with a fast tip. This setup allows for longer casting distances and better control, especially when using lighter lures and soft plastics. Pair it with a saltwater spinning reel that has enough line capacity to handle strong redfish.
Timing And Location
Timing is essential when fishing for redfish in the winter. During the cooler months, it's best to wait until mid-day, when the sun has had time to warm the water slightly. In summer, early mornings are usually prime for fishing, but winter flips that pattern, making mid-day more productive.
Winter fishing hotspots are often fewer, but focusing on deeper channels and structure, such as oyster beds and jetties, can help you locate where the redfish are hiding. Since the fish are less active, you'll need to put in more effort to find the right spot.
Recap
- Even in cold weather, redfish can still be caught successfully in the winter.
- Make slight adjustments to your fishing techniques by slowing down your retrieve and using scented baits to entice sluggish redfish.
- Use scented baits like Berkley Gulp Shrimp or live bait like mullet or shrimp to increase your chances.
- Opt for a medium-action, 7-foot rod for the best casting distance and control.
- Time your trips for mid-day, when the sun has warmed the water, and focus on deeper channels and structures to find redfish.
By following these winter fishing tips, you'll have a better chance of hooking redfish during the colder months. Make sure to gear up with the right equipment, such as scented lures and a high-quality rod, and adjust your techniques to fit the season.
