Fishing for redfish in Louisiana is an adventure. With so many marshes and estuaries, it’s a perfect place to reel in these fun fish – especially in the New Orleans area. This blog will give you an overview of redfish in the area and some tips for catching them.
Redfish Basics
Habitat
Also known as red drum or poisson rouge, the redfish is a cornerstone of Louisiana game fishing. Redfish enhabit waters all throughout the eastern and southern Atlantic coast, and along the northern coast of the Gulf of Mexico. While these fish can be found all throughout the southeastern coast, Louisiana is a particularly good place to catch them. This is due to the states gentle tides and abundance of small critters for the red fish to eat on.
Identifying a Redfish
Redfish are an iconic part of the Louisiana aquatic ecosystem. They are known for their dark red color on their back, and deep black “eyespots” on their sides. Red fish are fascinating creatures. They are recognized for their strength, size, and toughness. They are able to handle various levels of salinity and are found in a variety of depths. The only time these super fish require a specific environment is when they reproduce. When they do, they will travel to saltier bodies of water. According to lafishblog.com, red fish are “the big, brawny cousin of speckled trout.”
Protection Status
Redfish are a protected species as of 2007, but are classified as “Least Concern.” Due to their protection status, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has placed some restrictions on game fishing for them. According to their website, to keep a red fish you caught it must be between 16-27 inches, and you can only keep five fish per person per day.
Catching Redfish
First, you need to know where to find redfish in the area. Redfish are commonly found in shallow waters, including coastal marshes, bays, and inlets. In Louisiana, look for them around grassy flats, oyster beds, and near shorelines with plenty of cover like submerged vegetation or structures. Tidal movements play a crucial role in redfish activity. Fishing during rising or falling tides is often more productive, as these conditions increase baitfish movement, drawing redfish out of hiding to feed.
Redfish are opportunistic feeders and will bite on a variety of natural and artificial baits. Live shrimp, crabs, and mullet are excellent choices for live bait. If you prefer artificial lures, soft plastics that mimic small fish or crustaceans work well. Gold spoons and spinnerbaits are also effective, especially in murky waters. When using lures, try a slow, steady retrieve to mimic the natural movement of their prey.
A medium to medium-heavy rod paired with a reel spooled with 10-20 lb. test line is typically suitable for redfish. Use a popping cork rig when fishing in shallow waters; it creates a splash that attracts redfish. For bottom fishing, a Carolina rig with a circle hook and a piece of cut bait can be very effective. Pay attention to your surroundings and the redfish’s behavior. They often travel in schools, so if you catch one, there’s a good chance more are nearby.
Cooking with Redfish
Once you’ve caught some redfish, it’s time to eat. Redfish are an excellent fish to cook with. Their flavor is mild and their flesh is flakey. Plenty of classic cajun recipes use redfish. As long as red fish is cooked through, they are a delicious and healthy part of any diet. The most iconic Louisiana dish is Blackened Redfish, but red fish on the half shell is also a popular way to eat them as well.
Louisiana is the “Sportsman’s Paradise” for a reason; it’s diverse and abundant wildlife. Redfish is a popular game fish that people have traveled far and wide to catch in Louisiana waters. These fish can be difficult to find commercially due to their protected status. Being able to catch and prepare your own redfish is a unique and an authentically Cajun experience. If you’re interested in catching your own, contact us today.
