First Cast species profile
Red Drum
Sciaenops ocellatus
Saltwater
Also called: redfish, red, channel bass, bull red, spottail bass, rat red
Overview
A copper-backed inshore bruiser that feeds aggressively across flats, passes, jetties, and marsh drains when tide movement concentrates bait.
- Family
- Sciaenidae
- Typical habitat
- Grass flats, Oyster reefs, Jetty edges, Marsh drains
- Takes
- Live shrimp, Mullet, Gold spoon
- Seasonality
- Spring and fall shorelines can be strong; summer fish often slide to early flats, passes, and deeper edges.
Identification
Not sure what you have caught? Photograph it and First Cast will identify it against the species master.
Identify a catch →Regulations
3 fish per day; 20 - 28 in; season open. One red drum over 28 inches may be retained per license year with a properly completed Red Drum Tag; one additional oversized fish requires a Bonus Red Drum Tag.
Bag limit: 3 fish per day
Length: 20 - 28 in
One red drum over 28 inches may be retained per license year with a properly completed Red Drum Tag; one additional oversized fish requires a Bonus Red Drum Tag.
Verify current regulations with the state or federal authority before fishing.