Derek Sirois
Catching Redfish
For many anglers in the Destin, Florida area, bay fishing for Redfish in Choctawhatchee Bay and the surrounding bayous is a popular pastime. These elusive fish are known for their beauty, fighting spirit, and delicious taste, making them a favorite target for anglers of all skill levels.
One of the best ways to catch Redfish in Choctawhatchee Bay is to fish with live bait. Finger mullet and shrimp are two popular live baits that are effective in attracting Redfish. Anglers can also use artificial lures such as soft plastic baits and topwater lures to entice these fish.
Redfish can be found in a variety of areas in Choctawhatchee Bay, including grass flats, oyster beds, and around docks and other structures. One effective technique for catching Redfish is to fish around mangrove islands and other areas with structure, using live bait or artificial lures. These fish are known for their fighting spirit, so be prepared for a battle when you hook one!
Another popular area for Redfish fishing in the Destin area is the bayous that connect to Choctawhatchee Bay. These narrow waterways are teeming with fish, including Redfish, and can be a great place to spend a day on the water. Anglers can use a variety of techniques, including fishing with live bait or artificial lures, to catch Redfish in the bayous.
When fishing for Redfish in Choctawhatchee Bay and the surrounding bayous, it's important to keep in mind the size and bag limits set by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The current bag limit for Redfish in Florida is one per person per day, with a slot limit of 18-27 inches. This means that anglers can keep one Redfish per day that is within the slot limit, and must release all others.
In conclusion, bay fishing for Redfish in Choctawhatchee Bay and the surrounding bayous in the Destin area is a popular and rewarding pastime for anglers of all skill levels. With the right gear, techniques, and a little bit of patience, anyone can catch a beautiful Redfish in these scenic waterways. Just remember to follow the size and bag limits set by the FWC, and to always practice catch and release for fish that fall outside of the slot limit. Happy fishing!
