Red drum are more commonly called redfish. The redfish have a chin without barbels and a copper-bronze body that appears lighter in clear waters. They have 1 to many spots at the base of the tail, large scales and a horizontal mouth that opens downward.
Habitat:
In winter, redfish are found in seagrass, over muddy or sand bottoms, or near oyster bars or spring fed creeks. Juvenile redfish are an inshore species until they reach roughly 30 inches (4 years). Once they reach this age, they migrate to the nearshore population.
Behavior:
Redfish are prodigious spawners that produce tens of millions of eggs. Spawning season is from about August through December, in passes, inlets and lagoon estuaries around the state. During spawning season, redfish use special muscles rubbing against their air bladder to produce a "drumming" sound for which they are named.
State Record:
52 lb 5 oz, caught near Cocoa (1996)
Fishing Tips:
Red drum are one of Florida’s most popular sport fish and the state’s most widespread estuarine fish. Floating a live shrimp under a popping cork is a good way to fish for redfish. They also chase crabs, mullet, pinfish and killifish (mud minnows). Casting soft-bodied jigs, spoons and even top-water plugs will catch the attention of these powerful estuarine musicians. Redfish make great table fare.
