Tactics for Redfish Fishing in NC
When it comes to inshore fishing here in Ocean Isle Beach NC, or anywhere in NC or SC for that matter, Redfish, also known as Red Drum, Puppy Drum, or Old Drum, are a top target for anglers. Redfish can be found in and along our beaches and coastal estuaries year-round, but the best seasons for catching them typically span from Spring through Fall. During this time, redfish move into shallower waters, making them more accessible to anglers. In NC, the peak months are usually May through October, while in SC, you'll find excellent fishing from April to November. But don't write off the Winter months, as redfish can be found in the flats of our coastal marshes and caught just by down-sizing your baits and finding warmer waters. Serious Redfish anglers fish for them all 12 months in NC and SC.
Selecting the Right Fishing Gear for Redfish
Selecting the right gear is essential for a successful Redfish outing. A medium to medium-heavy spinning rod paired with a 2500 to 4000 size reel is ideal for handling Redfish. A 20 to 30-pound braided line with a 20 to 40-pound fluorocarbon leader is recommended for durability and sensitivity. Terminal tackle can vary, but 1/4 ounce jigheads are the norm for most soft palstics. Natural bait is typically presented with a Carolina Rig with a 1 oz egg sinker and a 4/0 to 5/0 hook. When fishing for Old Drum or Bull Drum, consider using the "OWen Lupton Rig", which looks similar to a carolina rig, but consists of a heavy swivel at the top of the rig, a fixed 2 oz egg sinker, and no more than 6" of 1oo lb monofilament leader between the bottom of the egg sinker and the eye of the hook. Redfish also love spoons and topwater plugs, so don't forget those on your next trip. Captain Harvey Wall, of Salty Dawg Fishing Charters, suggests always having one of each tied on for nearly every inshore fishing trip, regardless of the time of year.
Tactics for Redfish Fishing
When it comes to tactics, sight fishing is a popular approach in shallow waters, especially during calm conditions, but it's often hard to do in the inshore waters in coastal North Carolina. But if you want to sight fish, then look for redfish cruising in schools or tailing in the shallows. Casting live bait, like mullet or shrimp, can be incredibly effective, as can using soft plastics like a Z-Man Diesel Minnow or a Berkley Gulp Shrimp. Additionally, fishing around structures such as docks, oyster beds, and grass flats can yield great results. For a more adventurous experience, consider exploring the tidal creeks and marshes where redfish often hunt for food. Fishing for Bull Red Drum is typically done with large chunks of cut mullet, 1/2 of a blue crab, or live mullet. Don't forget to take into account the tides when planning your trip, understanding the movement of Redfish during different stages of the tides.
Size and Creel Limits for Redfish in NC and SC
Understanding size and creel limits is crucial for responsible fishing. In North Carolina, the minimum size limit for Redfish is 18 inches, with a maximum size limit of 27 inches. Anglers can keep one Red Drum per day. In South Carolina, the regulations are slightly different, with a Red Drum slot limit of 15 to 23 inches and a daily creel limit of three fish per angler. Always check local regulations before heading out, as these rules can change based on conservation efforts. And don't forget that creel limits apply to wherever you possess the Redfish, not only to where it was caught. For example, if you legally catch and keep 3 Redfish in SC waters, say in Little River SC, and then bring them back to NC waters via the ICW (Intracoastal Waterway), then you will be in violation - and subject to a citation from the NC Division of Marine Fisheries- for exceeding North Carolina's creel and possession limits for Redfish. So, if you plan to take advantage of the less stringent size and creel limits for Redfish in SC, and you'll br keeping fish that don't fall into the NC creel or size limit, then you should plan to use a boat ramp or access area in SC to avoid transporting your Redfish into NC.
Conservation: Handling and Proper Release of Redfish
When releasing a Redfish, proper handling is extremely important to make sure the Redfish lives once released. A few tips are:
- Always use barbless circle hooks, especially when fishing for Old Drum or Bull Drum (Over 30").
- Use adequately sized gear to fight the fish in quickly.
- Use a landing net when possible.
- Never touch a Redfish with dry hands, always wet them first to avoid removing their protective slime coat.
- Never keep a Redfish out of the water longer than necessary.
- Never hold a large Redfish vertically by the jaw, use two hands to support their weight.
- Revive larger fish by holding them by the tail and gently moving them back and forth in the water until they are ready to swim away.
Summary
With the right gear, tactics, and a good understanding of local regulations, you'll be well-equipped for a successful redfish fishing adventure in the inshore waters of North Carolina or South Carolina. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, the thrill of catching a Redfish, big or small, is sure to create lasting memories on the water.
If you'd rather have personalized on the water instruction for fishing for Redfish by a licensed Charter Captain, then call or text Capt Harvey today at 910.250.8459 or click / tap the book now buttons on this page.
Tight Lines,
Captain Harvey Wall
Salty Dawg Fishing Charters