As the summer heat fades, Tampa Bay transitions into one of the best times of year for redfish fishermen. Fall is a great time for targeting large schools of bull redfish, which move into the bay to feed aggressively and prepare for their spawning season. October and November here are a redfish fisherman’s dream.
Redfish on the Flats
During the fall, reds school up in shallow flats and are easy to spot thanks to their tails breaking the surface as they feed. These schools often contain fish in the 20- to 30-inch range, but it’s not uncommon to hook into bull redfish exceeding 40 inches.
Top Baits and Lures
Natural baits like shrimp, mullet, and cut pinfish are effective for redfish during the fall. Fishermen who prefer artificial lures will find success with gold spoons, soft plastics, and topwater plugs. Work these lures slowly and methodically to entice strikes from these aggressive feeders.
Key Spots to Target
Look for red drum near grass flats, oyster bars, and mangrove shorelines. As the tide changes, these fish move in predictable patterns, making it easier to target them during peak feeding times.
Pro Tips for Fall Redfish
- Use polarized sunglasses to spot schooling redfish in the shallows.
- Fish the outgoing tide, which encourages baitfish movement and triggers feeding.
- Keep noise to a minimum to avoid spooking the schools.
Fall fishing in Tampa has spectacular opportunities for anglers to land trophy reds while enjoying cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery. It’s the perfect time to be on the water.
