Fall Redfish Fishing: When the Flats Come Alive

It’s no secret — cooler temperatures bring an explosion of activity to the flats. As water temperatures drop in the fall, fish begin feeding aggressively. Massive schools of white bait flood the bays and shallow grass flats, and predator species gather in large numbers to take advantage.

All animals are opportunistic feeders. They want the easiest meal possible. That’s why you’ll often see large schools of redfish trailing closely behind aggressive packs of jack crevalle and bluefish. The jacks slash through the bait with speed and violence, and the redfish hang back, patiently picking off injured or disoriented baitfish.

It’s a system. And it works.

Why Fall Is Special for Redfish

Fall redfish fishing is a special time of year. The fish group up in large schools and move shallow to feed heavily before winter. Unlike the spring months — when redfish can be extremely spooky — fall fish are typically more aggressive and less wary.

This doesn’t mean you can abandon stealth. But it does mean you’ll have more opportunities and more forgiving fish.

The first signs to look for are birds and bait activity on the flats. Diving birds often signal feeding predators below. Healthy grass flats in two to three feet of water are prime territory. On calm mornings, you’ll often see the “push” of a redfish school — a subtle wake about three to five inches high moving steadily across the flat.

When you see that, slow down. Observe.

Don’t Chase — Pattern Them

One of the biggest mistakes anglers make is immediately chasing a school with their motor or trolling motor. Noise and vibration can quickly shut down a bite.

Instead, try to pattern the fish. Redfish schools often move in predictable routes, sometimes swimming in large circles around sandbars or staying within a specific area. If you identify their pattern, position yourself ahead of them and let the fish come to you.

If you absolutely need to reposition, use a push pole. It minimizes disturbance and keeps the fish relaxed.

Presentation and Getting the Bite

Once the school is within casting distance, cast ahead of their direction of travel. Lead them. Let the bait settle naturally.

If jacks are stealing your offerings before the redfish can react, adjust. Cast slightly behind or directly into the school where redfish are feeding more calmly. Sometimes a subtle presentation produces better than a frantic one.

To really fire them up, toss out small handfuls of live greenbacks. Chumming can trigger a feeding frenzy. When redfish enter that competitive mode, they often strike anything moving naturally in their path.

Tackle for Longer Casts

Longer rods — 7’6” to 8’ — are ideal for covering water and reaching distant schools without getting too close. Pair that with a 4000 series reel spooled with 10–15 lb braid.

The smaller diameter braid allows line to flow effortlessly off the spool, giving you longer, smoother casts. Distance matters when targeting schooling fish in shallow water.

Use a light fluorocarbon leader and sharp hooks. Keep it simple. Precision and positioning are more important than complicated rigs.

Timing Makes the Difference

Tidal movement plays a major role in fall redfish success. Incoming tides push bait onto the flats. Outgoing tides pull forage through cuts and channels. Both can produce — but moving water is key.

Calm mornings often provide the best sight-fishing opportunities. Windy afternoons can create dirty water that forces you to rely more on bait and sound.

The key is reading conditions and adjusting your approach.

Fall redfish season is one of the most exciting times to fish Tampa Bay’s shallow flats. Aggressive schools, predictable patterns, and hungry fish make for explosive action.

Get out there. Watch the birds. Follow the bait. Be patient. Let the fish come to you.

I’ll see you on the water.