Redfish, Catch & Release, July 1, 2025

🎣 Redfish Fishing Overview – Sanibel & Captiva Islands Regarding inshore sportfishing along Florida’s Gulf Coast, few targets are as iconic and rewarding as the Redfish (Red Drum, Sciaenops ocellatus). 

Around Sanibel and Captiva Islands, redfish are a prized inshore species for seasoned anglers and beginners, offering intense fights, versatile fishing opportunities, and year-round accessibility in one of Florida’s most scenic fisheries. Redfish in these waters commonly range from 18 to 30 inches (slot-size), though over-slot “bull reds” exceeding 40 inches are occasionally caught, particularly in the fall. They’re known for their bronze coloring, tail-spot markings, and strong, determined runs when hooked. 

Unlike some more elusive species, redfish are opportunistic feeders and readily take natural bait, cut bait, and artificial lures. Bait & Tactics: Redfish readily hit live bait such as shrimp, pinfish, or pilchards, as well as cut bait like ladyfish and mullet. They’re also aggressive takers of soft plastics, gold spoons, and topwater plugs, particularly when fished near structure or along oyster beds. Most anglers prefer medium spinning tackle with 10–20 lb braided line and 20–30 lb fluorocarbon leaders to handle their tough fights and avoid line breakage in mangroves. 

Where to Find Them

Around Sanibel and Captiva, redfish concentrate in mangrove-lined shorelines, grass flats, oyster bars, and tidal creeks. Some of the most productive areas include Pine Island Sound, Tarpon Bay, Redfish Pass (true to its name), and the sheltered shorelines around Roosevelt Channel and Buck Key. These locations offer ample ambush points for reds during moving tides, especially on rising water levels. Seasonality: Redfish can be caught year-round in the region, with fall being particularly productive for larger fish and schooling reds on the flats. During cooler winter, redfish may move to deeper holes or sun-warmed shallows, while spring and summer see them chasing baitfish and crustaceans in the grass. 

Catch & Release Ethics 

Recently, redfish populations in southwest Florida have been carefully managed due to environmental stressors like red tide. As a result, catch-and-release has become a vital part of the redfish fishery, especially since harvest closures have been enacted periodically. Use circle hooks, minimize handling, and revive fish before release, particularly during warmer months. Florida regulations often include slot size limits (usually 18–27″) and bag limits, which vary by region and emergency rules—so always check FWC guidelines before harvesting. 

📝 Summary

Redfish on Sanibel & Captiva Redfish are an accessible, hard-fighting, and versatile species that provide year-round fishing excitement on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Whether stalking tailing reds on the flats or casting under the mangroves at high tide, these inshore brutes offer one of the best all-around fishing experiences for locals and visitors alike. With their beautiful surroundings, abundant backwaters, and conservation-conscious angling culture, Sanibel and Captiva remain a top destination for redfish anglers who value sport, sustainability, and the magic of Florida’s Gulf Coast.