The red drum, commonly known as redfish, is one of the most sought-after gamefish along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts. With their distinctive copper color and black tail spot, redfish offer anglers an exciting fight and excellent table fare. But with popularity comes regulation, and redfish rules vary significantly from state to state.
Whether you're planning a trip to the flats of Louisiana, the grass beds of Florida, or the Carolina coastline, understanding local regulations is crucial. Violations can result in hefty fines and loss of fishing privileges. Here's your complete breakdown of redfish regulations across every coastal state.
Why Redfish Are So Heavily Regulated
Redfish populations crashed dramatically in the 1980s due to the popularity of blackened redfish in restaurants. The commercial demand nearly wiped out the species in some areas. In response, federal regulations banned commercial harvest in federal waters (beyond 9 miles offshore), and states implemented strict recreational limits.
Today, redfish populations have largely recovered thanks to these conservation efforts, but regulations remain tight to ensure sustainable fisheries for future generations.
State-by-State Regulations
Important: Regulations change frequently. Always verify current rules with your state's fish and wildlife agency or use the CatchCheck app for real-time regulation updates before you fish.
🌴 Florida
Florida's redfish regulations vary by region, with special rules for certain areas like the Indian River Lagoon and Mosquito Lagoon.
⚜️ Louisiana
Louisiana is famous for its world-class redfish fishing in the marshes and bays of the Mississippi Delta region.
⭐ Texas
Texas offers excellent redfish action along its extensive coastline, from Galveston Bay to the Lower Laguna Madre.
🌲 Alabama
Alabama's Mobile Bay and Gulf shores provide excellent redfish opportunities.
🌺 Mississippi
Mississippi's coastal waters and barrier islands offer solid redfish action.
🍑 Georgia
Georgia's marshes and tidal creeks provide excellent sight-fishing for redfish.
🌙 South Carolina
South Carolina's Lowcountry marshes are prime redfish territory.
🏔️ North Carolina
North Carolina's Outer Banks and Pamlico Sound offer outstanding redfish fishing.
Best Times to Target Redfish
While redfish can be caught year-round in most states, certain seasons offer better action:
- Spring (March-May): Redfish move into shallow flats and marshes as water warms. Excellent sight-fishing opportunities.
- Summer (June-August): Early morning and late evening bites are best. Fish move deeper during midday heat.
- Fall (September-November): Prime time! Bull reds run along beaches, and slot fish feed aggressively before winter.
- Winter (December-February): Slower action but redfish can still be found in deeper holes and channels.
Track Your Redfish Catches Legally
CatchCheck automatically checks your redfish against state size and bag limits in real-time. Never worry about violating slot limits or possession rules again.
Download CatchCheck FreeTips for Responsible Redfish Fishing
- Measure carefully: Always carry a measuring device. Slot limits are strictly enforced.
- Handle with care: Wet your hands before handling, support the fish horizontally, and minimize air exposure.
- Use circle hooks: Circle hooks reduce gut-hooking and improve survival rates for released fish.
- Revive before release: Hold the fish in the water and move it gently back and forth until it swims away strongly.
- Know the rules: Download CatchCheck to have regulations at your fingertips, even offline.
Never Guess on Regulations Again
CatchCheck gives you instant access to redfish regulations for any location, updated in real-time. Download the app and fish with confidence.
Download CatchCheck FreeThe Bottom Line
Redfish are an incredible gamefish that deserve our respect and protection. By following state regulations and practicing responsible fishing, we can ensure that future generations will enjoy the same thrilling redfish action we experience today.
Remember: regulations can change at any time based on fish population surveys, so always check current rules before you head out. The CatchCheck app makes this easy by providing real-time regulation updates for your specific location.
Tight lines, and fish responsibly!