Caught a Redfish Inshore in Port OConnor

The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. This prized game fish is found along the Atlantic and Gulf coastlines of the United States, distinguished by its copper-red coloration that fades to white on the belly and one or more distinctive black eyespots near the tail. In Port O'Connor waters this October, redfish are actively feeding in the shallow flats and grass beds that make this area famous among inshore anglers.

Redfish Overview

Redfish are among the most sought-after inshore game fish, valued for their aggressive strikes, powerful runs, and excellent table fare. They can live over 40 years and grow quite large, with the biggest specimens exceeding 50 pounds. Their distinctive drumming sound, produced by muscles vibrating against their swim bladder, gives them their "drum" name and helps anglers locate schools.

Redfish Habitat and Distribution

These adaptable fish thrive in shallow coastal waters, particularly grass flats, oyster reefs, and backcountry areas with depths of 1-4 feet. Port O'Connor's extensive shallow bay system provides ideal redfish habitat, with clear water allowing sight-fishing opportunities. They prefer areas with structure like oyster bars and grass beds where they can ambush prey.

Redfish Size and Weight

Redfish typically range from 30 to 61 inches in length and weigh between 10 to 45 pounds at maturity. Slot-size fish (20-28 inches in Texas) are most commonly targeted by anglers, while larger "bull" redfish over 28 inches are often released to preserve the breeding population.

Redfish Diet and Behavior

Redfish are opportunistic feeders that consume crabs, shrimp, mullet, and other small fish. They often feed with their heads down and tails up, creating distinctive "tailing" behavior that alerts anglers to their presence. They're most active during moving tides and low-light periods, making early morning trips particularly productive.

Redfish Spawning Season

Redfish spawn in nearshore waters from late summer through fall, with peak activity occurring when water temperatures range from 70-80°F. During spawning season, large schools of adult redfish gather in deeper waters before returning to inshore areas, creating excellent fishing opportunities.

Redfish Fishing Techniques

Successful redfish techniques include live bait fishing with shrimp or mullet, artificial lures like spoons and soft plastics, and fly fishing with crab or shrimp patterns. Drift fishing allows covering water efficiently, while sight-fishing in clear conditions provides exciting visual encounters. In October around Port O'Connor, anglers find success using light tackle in 2-4 feet of water near grass beds and oyster structures.

Redfish Is It Good to Eat?

Redfish offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. They're high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury. Popular cooking methods include blackening, grilling, and baking, with smaller slot-size fish generally preferred for eating over larger specimens.

Redfish Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for redfish?

A: Live shrimp and mullet are top choices, along with cut bait like crab. Artificial lures such as gold spoons, soft plastic shrimp, and topwater plugs also work well.

Q: Where can I find redfish near Port O'Connor?

A: Look for redfish in shallow grass flats, around oyster reefs, and in backcountry areas with 1-4 feet of water. They often feed near structure and moving water.

Q: Is redfish good to eat?

A: Yes, redfish have firm white meat with a mild flavor and are excellent grilled, blackened, or baked. Slot-size fish (20-28 inches) are preferred for eating.

Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?

A: Early morning and late afternoon during moving tides are prime times. Fall months like October offer excellent redfish action as they feed actively before winter.