Redfish are the most popular saltwater game fish in Florida and the Mosquito Lagoon is the most popular place to fish for them. The wide open grass flats that are world famous for kayak fishing, and Redfish are the main attraction!
Where to Find Redfish
Redfish can be found throughout the Mosquito Lagoon. They are found in the deepest channels and in the shallowest of flats. Water temperature is one of the determining factors for finding redfish while kayak fishing on the lagoon. During cold spells and very hot days Redfish will move to the deeper channels, most other times they will be found foraging around the flats. On calm days they can easily be spotted tailing (foraging nose down with their tails sticking out of the water) on the flats.
When the water is clear enough, Redfish can also be sight fished. Underwater they look similar to large mullet, but the larger fish can not be mistaken! Look for a tell-tail V shaped behind a large fish cruising through shallow water.
Equipment for Catching Redfish
Redfish that inhabit the Mosquito Lagoon range in size from only a few inches up to very large breeder females that are over 40 inches. Most of the lagoon is shallow grass flats with very little structure means that almost any spinning reel with a good drag can be used.
A high quality spinning reel spooled with 10lb test line is the most common set up on Mosquito Lagoon when fishing for Redfish. A 7′ medium action rod will help when long casts are needed and the extra length also helps with put pressure on the bigger fish.
How to Catch Redfish
Redfish are willing strikers of artificial lures and live bait alike. Once located, it is important to keep a fair amount of distance from the fish to avoid spooking them and shutting down a possible bite. On clear days, long casts are required, on murky water or low light shorter casts can be used.
Artificial Lures
Early in the morning nothing beats the excitement of a large redfish attacking a top water lure. Walk-the-dog type lures are the most successful but others can be used. Once the sun rises the most popular artificial lures for redfish are soft plastics.
A soft plastic jerk bait worked with an erratic presentation is a very popular method of catching Redfish on the Mosquito Lagoon. Soft plastic shrimp and curl tail grubs are also highly successful.
Live Bait
Live bait can be quite successful on the lagoon. Live finger mullet and pinfish are two of the most successful baits. Mud minnows, croakers and even cut lady fish are also good baits to use for Redfish.
Using a circle hook, free line the bait in areas known to hold redfish. Sand potholes in the middle of large grass flats and deep channels running close to flats are great areas to target!
Florida Redfish Regulations
- Slot: 18-27″
- Bag Limit: 1-2 depending on Zone (See FWC)
- Season: Open year-round
- Regulations accurate as of 1/12/2015
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