Spring is an exciting time for inshore anglers targeting redfish. As water temperatures rise and baitfish return to coastal waters, redfish become more active and aggressive. The transition from winter’s slow fishing to spring’s dynamic action means new opportunities and strategies. Here’s your guide to successful spring redfish fishing, including tips for using the new 7' Medium-Action RCT Inshore Rod from Walton Rods, available in April.
Why Spring Red fishing Shines
Spring brings a revival of life in the water. Redfish move from their winter haunts into shallow areas to feed on the influx of baitfish, shrimp, and crabs. The warmer temperatures make them more willing to chase lures, giving anglers a chance to use faster, more dynamic presentations.
Where to Find Spring Redfish
Redfish in spring can be found in several key habitats as they transition from winter patterns to more active feeding zones:
Grass Flats: As the water warms, grass flats become hotspots. Look for redfish cruising these areas during high tides, feeding on shrimp and baitfish.
Creek Mouths and Drains: Outflows and drains from marshes are prime locations, especially during moving tides. Bait gets funneled into these areas, and redfish take advantage of the easy meals.
Oyster Bars and Shallow Reefs: These structures hold heat and food, attracting redfish. Target these areas during mid to high tides when fish move in to feed.
Sandy Potholes: On grassy flats, sandy potholes act as ambush points for feeding redfish. Casting into these areas often yields strikes.
Popular Locations
Florida Gulf Coast: Areas like Mosquito Lagoon and St. Joseph Bay shine in spring.
Texas Coast: Corpus Christi and Aransas Bay offer excellent flats and oyster bar fishing.
Southeast Marshes: The marshes in Georgia and the Carolinas provide ample spring action.
Lures and Techniques
Spring allows for more aggressive presentations than winter, but the right lure and retrieve still play a significant role.
Top Spring Lures for Redfish
Soft Plastics:
Paddle Tails: Lures like the Z-Man MinnowZ or Gulp! Swimming Mullet rigged on a jighead are excellent for mimicking baitfish. Bright colors like chartreuse and natural shades like white or silver work well.
Jerkbaits: Soft jerkbaits rigged weedless are perfect for shallow grassy flats where redfish roam.
Spoons:
Gold spoons remain a spring favorite. They allow for long casts and are perfect for covering large areas quickly.
Topwater Lures:
Spring mornings and evenings are ideal for topwater action. Lures like the Heddon Spook or Rapala Skitter Walk can entice explosive strikes from feeding redfish.
Crankbaits and Twitch Baits:
Hard baits like the MirrOlure MirrOdine or Yo-Zuri 3D Inshore Minnow are excellent for targeting redfish around structure.
Techniques for Spring Redfish
Cover Water: Spring redfish are more active and cover more ground while feeding. Use lures that allow you to cover water quickly, like spoons or crankbaits.
Work the Tides: Incoming and high tides are productive as redfish push into shallow areas to hunt. Use this time to target grassy flats and oyster bars.
Match the Hatch: With baitfish and shrimp abundant in spring, choosing lures that mimic the size and color of local forage can make a big difference.
Cast to Activity: Look for signs of feeding fish, such as wakes, tails, or birds diving. Casting into these areas increases your chances of hooking up.
The Best Rod for Spring Redfishing
The new 7' Medium-Action RCT Inshore Rod from Walton Rods, debuting in April, is the perfect companion for spring redfish adventures. Here’s why:
Versatility: Spring fishing demands a rod that can handle everything from soft plastics to topwater lures, and this rod excels across the board.
Casting Power: The 7' length gives you the reach to cast lightweight lures to far-off tailing redfish on flats.
Sensitivity: Spring redfish strikes can range from subtle to explosive, and this rod’s sensitivity ensures you’ll feel every bite.
Durability: Built for saltwater conditions, this rod is ready to handle the challenges of inshore fishing all season long.
Final Tips for Spring Success
Be Patient: Spring redfish are often moving in schools. If you locate one fish, there are likely more nearby.
Use Light Line: Clear spring waters mean stealth is important. Stick to 10-15 lb. braided line with a 20 lb. fluorocarbon leader.
Pay Attention to Water Temperature: Redfish are most active when water temperatures hover between 65-75°F.
Spring redfish fishing is an exciting time to hit the water. With increased activity and predictable feeding patterns, this season offers some of the best opportunities for inshore anglers. Equip yourself with the right lures, techniques, and the Walton Rods 7' Medium-Action Inshore Rod, and you’ll be ready to make the most of the action this spring.
I hope this revised version is ready for your blog! Let me know if there are any adjustments or additional details you'd like to include. Happy fishing!
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