Best Bait for Redfish in Florida A Guide

Best bait for redfish in Florida: Unlocking the secrets to catching these magnificent fish in the Sunshine State’s diverse waters. From the shallows of the estuaries to the open expanse of the coast, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge to choose the perfect bait for any situation. Discover the nuances of live bait, the effectiveness of artificial lures, and the critical role of environmental factors in maximizing your redfish fishing experience.

Florida’s redfish, known for their acrobatic jumps and spirited fights, are a true delight for anglers. This guide dives deep into the art of selecting the right bait, from the subtle dance of live shrimp to the enticing flash of a topwater lure. We’ll explore how factors like water temperature, salinity, and moon phases influence your bait choices, ensuring you’re always prepared for a productive fishing trip.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Redfish Fishing in Florida

Florida’s coastal waters teem with life, and redfish fishing is a favorite pastime for anglers of all levels. These magnificent fish, with their striking colors and powerful build, offer a challenging and rewarding experience. Understanding their habitat preferences, typical fishing locations, and the best times to target them will greatly enhance your chances of success.Redfish, a popular game fish, are known for their adaptability and resilience, thriving in various environments throughout the Sunshine State.

Their presence in the diverse ecosystems of Florida provides exciting opportunities for anglers. These fish are known for their acrobatic battles and provide unforgettable memories.

Redfish Species in Florida

Redfish, scientifically known asSciaenops ocellatus*, are a species of fish found in coastal waters across Florida. Their color variations and markings are influenced by the environment and age, ranging from a brownish-grey to a deep red-orange, making them an attractive target for anglers. They are often referred to as red drum.

Common Fishing Locations

Florida’s diverse coastline offers a range of excellent redfish fishing spots. From the bustling estuaries of the Everglades to the tranquil bays of the Panhandle, there’s a location to suit every angler. Popular spots include the Indian River Lagoon, the Florida Keys, and the numerous coastal inlets and backcountry areas. The precise location will depend on the time of year and specific conditions.

Fishing Seasons

Florida’s redfish fishing seasons are generally influenced by the fish’s reproductive cycle and feeding patterns. The spring and fall months often bring the most consistent action, with the warmer months (summer) and cooler months (winter) offering opportunities, but potentially less predictably. These seasons are driven by environmental factors, including water temperature, salinity, and food availability.

Florida Redfish Habitats

Habitat Type	Description	Fishing Techniques
Estuaries	Areas where freshwater rivers meet saltwater from the ocean. These areas are often rich in vegetation and provide cover for redfish.	Casting, jigging, and using live bait. Look for areas with abundant vegetation or channels.
Mangroves	These dense, coastal forests provide excellent shelter and feeding grounds for redfish. The intricate root systems create ideal hiding places.	Casting, using lures that mimic shrimp or other small fish. Stealth is key in mangrove areas.
Coastal Areas	Open coastal waters, such as beaches, flats, and inlets. These areas often feature sandy bottoms and provide feeding opportunities.	Casting, using live bait, and trolling. Look for baitfish activity or signs of fish movement.

These habitats, from estuaries to mangroves and coastal areas, offer distinct advantages for redfish anglers, leading to varied fishing experiences.

Bait Types for Redfish

Redfish, those acrobatic denizens of Florida’s coastal waters, are masters of deception. To successfully lure them into your grasp, you need to understand the subtle nuances of their feeding habits and, critically, the types of bait they find irresistible. This section will explore the world of redfish bait, from the classic live offerings to the versatile realm of artificial lures.Redfish are opportunistic feeders, and their diet is incredibly diverse, ranging from small crustaceans to finfish and even the occasional discarded shrimp.

Knowing the specific bait preferences of the redfish in your target area is key to a successful fishing expedition. Understanding the nuances of live bait presentation, and how to choose the right artificial lure, will significantly increase your chances of hooking a prize-worthy redfish.

Live Bait: The Natural Approach

Live bait offers a highly effective and often exhilarating fishing experience. The natural movement and scent of live bait can trigger a powerful strike from a hungry redfish. It is crucial to select and prepare your live bait correctly for optimal results.

Shrimp: A ubiquitous choice, shrimp offer a versatile and appealing option for redfish. Their natural wriggling motion and sweet scent make them highly effective. Fresh shrimp, particularly those from local vendors, are often the most successful. Storing live shrimp in a cooler with water is vital to maintaining their freshness and vitality.
Pinfish: These small, silvery fish are a powerful attractant for redfish. Their lively swimming style and the natural scent profile of these baitfish can lead to aggressive strikes. To ensure they remain lively, keep them in a separate, well-aerated container.
Mullet: While larger than pinfish, mullet can be an effective bait for redfish, especially in areas with larger schools of redfish. Their rich profile and abundance can make them a valuable addition to your bait arsenal.

Live Bait Preparation and Presentation

Proper preparation and presentation of live bait significantly influence your chances of success.

Hooking: Use a small, sharp hook, ideally a circle hook. This allows for a natural presentation and a reduced risk of the bait escaping.
Presentation: Subtly jigging or letting the bait drift naturally is crucial. Adjust your presentation to mimic the natural movement of the bait in the water column. Observe the redfish’s behavior and adjust your technique accordingly.

Artificial Lures: The Versatile Option

Artificial lures offer a cost-effective and versatile alternative to live bait. Their durability and ability to be easily fished in various conditions make them a popular choice for anglers.

Soft Plastics: These lures mimic the appearance and movement of small fish or crustaceans. Their flexibility and variety of colors and profiles offer a wide range of options for attracting redfish.
Hard Plastics: These lures are durable and can be cast further. Their rigid bodies can create more erratic movements, attracting redfish that are less active.
Spoons: The flashing and vibrating action of spoons is very effective for attracting redfish. The varied sizes and styles allow you to target different types of redfish.

Selecting the Right Bait for Conditions

Choosing the optimal bait depends heavily on the specific fishing conditions. Cloudy water or low light conditions might require a more visible bait, such as a brightly colored soft plastic or a spoon.

Rigging Different Bait Types

Proper rigging ensures a secure and effective presentation of your bait. The right rig allows the bait to move naturally and attract a redfish’s attention.

Bait Type	Pros	Cons
Shrimp	Versatile, readily available, natural scent	Can be easily damaged, relatively small size
Pinfish	Lively, natural profile	Small size, may be less readily available in some areas
Mullet	Larger size, robust	Can be challenging to handle, may be less readily available in some areas
Soft Plastics	Durable, diverse profiles, cost-effective	Can lose effectiveness in harsh conditions
Hard Plastics	Durable, can be cast further, versatile	Less effective in calm water
Spoons	Flashing and vibrating action, excellent in murky conditions	Can be easily lost in heavy cover

Bait Selection Based on Conditions

Florida’s redfish are masters of their environment, responding subtly to changes in temperature, salinity, moon phases, and current. Understanding these nuances is key to selecting the most effective bait, ultimately leading to a more rewarding fishing experience. Choosing the right bait for the right conditions significantly increases your chances of success.Successful redfish anglers often adjust their bait selection in response to the environmental cues.

A deep understanding of these cues allows for more informed choices, ensuring a more effective approach. This strategy is crucial to mastering the art of redfish fishing in Florida.

Water Temperature Impact

Water temperature significantly impacts redfish behavior and their preferred food sources. Cooler water often necessitates bait that mimics the forage fish prevalent in those conditions. Warmer waters, on the other hand, might call for baits that resemble more abundant, actively moving prey. For example, in spring, when the water warms up, redfish often become more active, and smaller, more vibrant baitfish are a popular choice.

Salinity Level Influence

Salinity levels dictate the types of organisms found in the water column. Estuaries, with their fluctuating salinity, present a diverse feeding ground. Freshwater inflows can dramatically alter the local salinity, impacting the available bait. Understanding salinity levels is crucial to choosing the appropriate baitfish. Redfish, being opportunistic feeders, will adapt to the available forage.

The bait selection in brackish water must consider the varying salinity levels.

Moon Phase Effect

The moon’s gravitational pull influences tides and currents, affecting the movement and availability of baitfish. Full moons, for instance, can create more pronounced currents, often driving baitfish to shallower areas. This knowledge is useful in predicting where to locate and choose appropriate baitfish. The moon’s cycle is a reliable indicator of feeding patterns.

Current and Tide Influence

Currents and tides directly impact baitfish movements. Strong currents might necessitate larger, more robust bait to withstand the flow. Conversely, calmer waters might favor smaller, more delicate baits. Knowing the tide’s direction and strength can guide your bait selection strategy. This awareness will greatly improve your chances of success.

Bait Preferences Based on Water Conditions in Florida

Water Condition	Preferred Bait	Notes
Cool, Clear Water (Spring)	Small, vibrant baitfish (e.g., shrimp, mullet)	Mimics prevalent forage in cooler conditions.
Warm, Turbid Water (Summer)	Live shrimp, artificial lures that mimic baitfish.	Mimics prey in warmer, more opaque conditions.
Brackish Water (Estuary)	Live shrimp, small mullet, artificial lures.	Adapt to a diverse range of organisms in fluctuating salinity.
High Current (Full Moon)	Larger, sturdy baits (e.g., larger shrimp, mullet)	Withstands strong currents; mimics baitfish capable of navigating currents.
Calm Water (New Moon)	Smaller, more delicate baits (e.g., small shrimp, artificial lures)	Mimics baitfish in calm waters; often more effective for ambush tactics.

Preparation and Presentation of Bait

Redfish, those magnificent creatures of the Florida coast, are masters of the art of ambush. To successfully tempt them to bite, you need to present your bait in a way that mimics their natural prey and minimizes stress. This involves more than just tossing a piece of bait into the water; it’s a delicate dance of preparation and presentation.Proper handling and presentation of bait are crucial for maximizing your chances of hooking a redfish.

Fresh, lively bait is far more enticing than sluggish, stressed-out bait. By understanding the techniques and methods for preparing and presenting your bait, you can significantly improve your catch rate. A lively bait is a bait that inspires confidence in a hungry redfish.

Handling Live Bait, Best bait for redfish in florida

Proper handling of live bait is essential to keep it healthy and enticing. Avoid rough handling, as this can lead to stress and decreased activity. Gently grasp the bait by the body, avoiding pinching or squeezing the vital organs. Minimize the time bait is out of water, as prolonged exposure to air can reduce its viability. Use a well-ventilated bait container with plenty of water to maintain optimal conditions during transport.

Avoiding Bait Stress

Stress is a significant enemy of effective bait. Transporting bait in a secure container with a sufficient amount of water is key. A container with a lid will help prevent the bait from drying out. The container should be well-ventilated and prevent the bait from bumping against each other, which can cause injuries. If possible, maintain the bait’s natural environment as much as possible to minimize stress.

Using a breathable material for the container will aid in keeping the bait lively.

Keeping Bait Alive and Active

Keeping bait alive and active involves more than just providing water. Maintaining proper water temperature is essential. Cold water will slow down the bait, while extremely warm water can cause stress. A container with an ice pack or cooling system will help maintain the correct temperature. Oxygen is vital for maintaining the bait’s activity.

Ensure the container has sufficient aeration or air exchange. If using a live well, ensure it is properly maintained and oxygenated.

Preparing Different Bait Types

This section Artikels a step-by-step procedure for preparing various bait types for redfish, ensuring freshness and minimizing stress. Choosing the correct bait type and preparation method is crucial to attract redfish.

Live Shrimp: Carefully remove shrimp from the container and gently rinse them under cool water to remove any excess debris. Avoid squeezing the shrimp, as this can cause stress and reduced activity. Place shrimp in a well-ventilated container with a small amount of water.
Live Mullet: Gently net the mullet and place it in a live well. Ensure the live well has adequate aeration to maintain the mullet’s vitality. A live well with a proper aeration system can help maintain the mullet’s activity.
Cut Bait (e.g., mullet, menhaden): Cut bait into small, manageable pieces. Avoid leaving the bait in direct sunlight or at high temperatures to prevent spoilage. Place the bait in a well-ventilated container with a small amount of water.

Bait Preparation Table

Bait Type	Preparation Steps
Live Shrimp	Gently remove from container, rinse, and place in a well-ventilated container with water.
Live Mullet	Gently net, place in live well with aeration.
Cut Mullet	Cut into small pieces, avoid leaving exposed to heat, place in a well-ventilated container with water.

Presenting Bait Effectively

Presenting bait effectively involves more than just dropping it in the water. Consider the water conditions, current, and depth. Fish in shallow water might respond differently than fish in deeper water. The right presentation technique will attract the attention of a hungry redfish. Vary your presentation techniques to cater to different feeding patterns of redfish.

Artificial Lures for Redfish: Best Bait For Redfish In Florida

Redfish, those elusive beauties of the Florida flats, aren’t always eager to take a live bait. Knowing how to tempt them with artificial lures is a crucial skill for any serious angler. Mastering the art of artificial lure fishing unlocks a whole new dimension of redfish encounters, offering a different experience compared to using live bait. Understanding the nuances of lure action, color, and presentation can significantly improve your chances of hooking a trophy redfish.Artificial lures offer a variety of advantages.

They can be easily customized and retrieved in ways that live bait simply can’t replicate. They also require less preparation, especially in conditions where live bait might be scarce or difficult to find. The ability to tailor your lure to the specific conditions, from the water clarity to the prevailing current, enhances your fishing strategy and improves your catch rate.

Lure Types for Redfish

A wide selection of artificial lures can be effective for redfish. Their effectiveness depends on the specific conditions and the redfish’s current mood. Popular choices include soft plastics, hard baits, and jigs, each with its own unique attributes.

Soft Plastics: These versatile lures come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, mimicking the profile and movement of small fish. They are particularly effective in shallow water or when targeting redfish that are actively feeding on smaller prey. Their flexibility allows for subtle movements that mimic injured baitfish, attracting the attention of cautious redfish.
Hard Baits: These lures often feature a more pronounced and visible action, perfect for attracting attention in clearer water. Their rigid construction allows for greater distance casts and faster retrieves, which can be beneficial in conditions where redfish are cruising or feeding in deeper areas. Some hard baits resemble baitfish, while others have a more aggressive, jerking action that mimics injured or distressed prey.
Jigs: Jigs are weighted lures that are often paired with soft plastic trailers. They are effective for targeting redfish in deeper water or when fishing structure. The weight allows for precise presentation near cover or drop-offs, while the trailer adds enticing action and a more realistic profile for the redfish to strike.

Color and Size Considerations

The effectiveness of your artificial lure is significantly influenced by the color and size. The best colors and sizes are contingent on the season, water clarity, and the prevailing light conditions.

Seasonality: In the spring and summer, brighter colors like chartreuse, white, and gold can be very effective. As the water cools in the fall and winter, more subdued colors like browns, blacks, and greens may be more appealing to the redfish.
Water Clarity: In clear water, you can often use brighter colors to stand out. In murky water, darker colors or subtle patterns are generally preferred to avoid being swallowed by the surroundings.
Size: The size of your lure should be matched to the size of the redfish you are targeting. Smaller lures are often better for targeting smaller redfish, while larger lures can be more effective for larger fish. In general, understanding the average size of redfish in the specific area will inform your lure selection.

Lure Action and Fishing Gear

The action of the lure is crucial in attracting a redfish’s attention. The way the lure moves in the water is as important as its appearance.

Lure Action: A lure’s action can mimic the movement of a wounded or struggling baitfish. Fast, erratic movements can be effective for aggressive redfish, while subtle, twitching actions are often better for cautious fish.
Fishing Gear: The appropriate fishing gear will depend on the type of lure and the anticipated conditions. For example, a lightweight spinning rod and reel might be ideal for fishing soft plastics, while a heavier baitcasting setup might be better suited for casting hard baits. A variety of line weights and strengths are also essential to suit different conditions and lure sizes.

Lure Selection Table

Lure Type	Best Colors	Recommended Sizes
Soft Plastics	Chartreuse, white, pearl, shrimp	1-3 inches
Hard Baits	Gold, silver, black, white	2-4 inches
Jigs	Dark colors, black, brown, natural colors	1/8-1/2 ounce

Bait Considerations for Specific Fishing Locations

Florida’s diverse coastal landscape presents a fascinating array of fishing opportunities, each with its own unique challenges and rewards. Understanding the nuances of specific fishing areas, from the intricate mangrove tunnels to the vast expanse of open water, is crucial for maximizing your chances of reeling in a prize-winning redfish. Knowing the ideal bait for each location can dramatically improve your catches.

Bait for Mangrove Areas

Mangrove areas, with their dense foliage and intricate channels, offer a unique hunting ground for redfish. These areas often harbor abundant baitfish, which redfish readily pursue. Live bait, such as mullet, pilchards, and shrimp, are excellent choices. The key is to select a bait that can navigate the maze of mangrove roots and remain enticing to redfish.

A small, lively bait that mimics the movement of natural prey is most effective. Avoid overly large or cumbersome baits that could become entangled in the vegetation.

Bait for Open Waters

Open waters offer a different set of challenges. Redfish in these areas are often feeding on larger, pelagic prey. Live bait, such as mullet, menhaden, and even small bluefish, is often successful. Consider the size of the redfish you’re targeting; larger redfish will likely prefer larger bait. Additionally, the color and movement of the bait can significantly impact its effectiveness.

Using baits that mimic the natural movements of fish or crustaceans can be highly effective.

Bait for Nearshore and Offshore Locations

Nearshore and offshore locations present opportunities for targeting redfish in different habitats. Nearshore, where the water is shallower and the bottom structure is varied, live shrimp, fiddler crabs, and mullet are highly effective. These baits often mimic the smaller crustaceans and fish that are prevalent in these areas. Offshore, where the water is deeper and the bottom structure is often sandy or rocky, live mullet, pilchards, and larger shrimp can be successful choices.

The key is to choose baits that can withstand the current and still remain attractive to the fish. In these locations, artificial lures can also be very effective, such as soft plastics or topwater plugs.

Bait Preferences Based on Florida Fishing Areas

Florida’s diverse coastline presents unique fishing experiences. For example, the shallow, grassy flats of the Indian River Lagoon often favor small live shrimp and fiddler crabs. In the clear waters of the Florida Keys, live bait such as pilchards or small fish are highly effective. Recognizing these localized preferences can enhance your fishing strategy. Researching the specific conditions and bait preferences of the particular area you’re targeting is essential.

Bait for Various Structures in Florida

Florida’s coastal areas boast a variety of structures, each potentially harboring redfish. On rocky reefs, live mullet or pilchards are excellent choices, as they mimic the fish that inhabit these areas. On grassy flats, small shrimp or fiddler crabs are ideal. These baits often mimic the small crustaceans prevalent in these habitats. In mangrove areas, smaller live bait such as shrimp or pilchards, or artificial lures that can navigate the dense vegetation, are often more effective.

For the open water, larger live bait, like mullet or menhaden, can be very effective, as they imitate larger prey items that redfish prefer in this environment. Understanding the structure and the fish’s behavior within it is critical for choosing the right bait.

Bait Alternatives and Innovations

Redfish are opportunistic feeders, meaning they’ll readily take a variety of bait. Beyond the classic offerings, exploring alternatives can unlock new fishing opportunities and enhance your chances of a successful catch. From expertly prepared cut bait to the subtle allure of live shrimp, understanding the nuances of bait selection and presentation is key to success.The world of redfish bait extends beyond the readily available.

Innovative techniques and a keen understanding of the fish’s preferences are crucial for mastering this art. Modern advancements, coupled with traditional wisdom, can make the difference between a frustrating day on the water and a memorable catch.

Cut Bait Techniques

Preparing cut bait effectively is essential for maximizing its appeal to redfish. Proper cutting and presentation ensure that the bait is enticing and easily consumed by the fish. Fresh, high-quality bait is paramount.

Proper Cutting: Using sharp, clean knives is critical. Cut bait into small, manageable pieces, ensuring each piece is roughly the same size. This allows for a consistent presentation and enhances the bait’s attractiveness. Avoid over-cutting, which can lead to the bait becoming less appealing. A good rule of thumb is to match the size of the bait pieces to the size of the redfish you are targeting.

Smaller fish typically respond better to smaller pieces.
Bait Selection: Focus on fresh, high-quality fish for the best results. Avoid bait that is showing signs of spoilage, as this can deter the fish. Popular choices include mullet, menhaden, or even the occasional smaller snapper or trout. The key is to choose a fish that is relatively neutral in flavor. The bait should not be overpowering in scent or taste, so avoid pungent or strong-flavored fish.
Presentation: Proper presentation is crucial for enticing the redfish. Consider using a weighted hook or a small jig to help keep the bait on the bottom, or even using a drifting technique for suspended bait. This is where the knowledge of your local fishing conditions comes into play. If the water is clear, you might consider a jig that shines a little or floats slightly to attract the redfish’s attention.

Live Bait Strategies

Live bait offers a more natural and often more effective approach. Maintaining live bait and presenting it correctly can dramatically increase your chances of a catch.

Live Shrimp: Shrimp are a popular live bait option. Live shrimp can be found in abundance in many areas. To keep them alive, ensure they are kept in a well-oxygenated container. Keep them in the cooler as long as you can, and avoid over-crowding the container. Shrimp, like other live bait, should be kept in the cooler with the rest of your gear.
Live Fish: Using live fish as bait requires a keen eye for detail. The right species of fish can significantly increase your chances of a successful catch. Select bait fish that are healthy and active. The size of the bait fish should also be considered in relation to the size of the redfish you’re trying to catch.

This ensures that the bait is not too small or too large for the fish. If you are using a bait net, be sure to handle the bait gently to avoid injury.
Homemade Live Bait: Learning to make your own live bait can save money and ensure a steady supply. The most common live bait is the baitfish, such as minnows, that are readily available in most local bait shops. However, you can also purchase larger baitfish or even try to catch them yourself. The preparation process varies based on the specific baitfish.

Consult with local fishing guides or experienced anglers to understand the best practices for creating live bait for redfish.

Crustacean Alternatives

Crustaceans, like crabs and shrimp, offer a diverse array of bait options. Their natural movements and textures can trigger a redfish’s predatory instincts.

Crab: Blue crabs, fiddler crabs, and other types are excellent bait options. Their hard shells and natural movements make them particularly appealing. Proper handling is key; avoid damaging the crab’s claws or body.
Shrimp: Shrimp, as mentioned previously, are an exceptional live bait option. The natural movement and scent of shrimp are particularly attractive to redfish. They can be presented in various ways, and are often an easy-to-use option for many anglers.

Innovative Bait Techniques

Staying ahead of the curve in fishing involves exploring innovative techniques. New advancements in bait technology can provide a significant edge.

Scent-Enhancing Bait: Adding natural scents to bait can significantly improve its attractiveness. This can involve soaking the bait in specific scents or using scent-infused baits. Consider natural scents that are similar to the natural scents of the redfish’s prey.
Specialized Hooks: The right hook can make all the difference. Specialized hooks designed for specific bait types or fishing conditions can help increase the hook-up rate. The right hook will allow for a good hold, and also be more attractive to the redfish.
Bait Rigging: Customizable rigging techniques can significantly improve your chances of success. Different rigs cater to different fishing conditions and target sizes. For instance, a weighted rig is more effective in deeper waters.

Conclusion

Mastering redfish bait selection is more than just choosing a lure; it’s about understanding the fish and the environment. This isn’t about a magic bait, but about being a keen observer, a responsive angler, and a student of the water. The key is adaptability, a trait that will make you a more successful and enjoyable angler.Fishing for redfish in Florida is a dance with the environment.

Water clarity, current, and temperature all influence a redfish’s feeding patterns. What works in one spot at one time may be useless in another. Understanding the nuances of your chosen fishing location and adapting your bait selection is crucial to success. The right bait, presented correctly, is your ticket to a rewarding day on the water.

Adapting to Changing Conditions

Successfully matching your bait to the conditions is a crucial skill. The water temperature, current, and clarity all impact a redfish’s appetite and feeding habits. A bait that’s effective in clear, calm water might be less enticing in murky, swift conditions. Observing the water and the fish’s behavior is essential for adjusting your approach. Note the fish’s activity levels and feeding patterns to fine-tune your strategy.

Proper Bait Handling

Proper bait handling is key to ensuring your bait remains attractive and enticing to the redfish. Freshness and presentation matter. Keep your bait in a cool, damp environment to maintain its vitality. Avoid overhandling, as this can diminish the bait’s natural scent and attractants. Ensure your bait is free from damage or excess moisture, as these factors can impact its effectiveness.

Key Factors for Successful Redfish Bait Selection

Successful bait selection hinges on several factors. Understanding the fish’s natural prey is a critical first step. The size and shape of the bait should match the size of the redfish you’re targeting. Presentation plays a critical role, as does the natural movements and scents of the bait. Ultimately, successful bait selection is a blend of knowledge, observation, and adaptation.

Best Bait for Different Conditions

Fishing Condition	Best Bait Type	Explanation
Clear, Calm Water	Live Shrimp, Mullet	Redfish in clear water often prefer natural bait, which they can easily see and identify. The natural movements and scents of live shrimp or mullet are irresistible.
Murky Water	Artificial lures, soft plastics	In murky water, artificial lures or soft plastics can be more effective as they often mimic the movement of prey or emit a stronger scent profile.
High Current	Artificial lures, hard-bodied	Strong currents can make it harder for live bait to stay in position. Hard-bodied lures and other artificial baits are designed to resist current and remain in the targeted area.
Low Light Conditions	Artificial lures with flash, glowing baits	Redfish are active in low light conditions. Artificial lures with flash, or glowing baits, can stand out and attract fish in dimmer light.