%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F3470%2Fimages%2Fcaptzachs.png&w=1200&q=100)
Caught a trophy Redfish in Savannah Savannah
Redfish Fishing in Savannah
%2F%2Fusers%2F28a94b2b-9e55-4e2a-aa30-0c27f74b0252%2Fimages%2Fredfish-deep-sea-fishing-savannah-4259.png&w=1200&q=75)
Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus) are one of the most sought-after inshore gamefish along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. These powerful fighters are known for their distinctive copper-red coloration and black spot near the tail, which helps confuse predators. - Redfish typically measure between 30-61 inches and can weigh anywhere from 10-45 pounds. - They thrive in shallow coastal environments including flats, backcountry areas, and nearshore waters. - Their diet consists primarily of crustaceans, smaller fish, and mollusks.
Fishing Charter by Captain Zachary Holick in August
Meet your Captain Zachary Holick
- Unforgettable Fishing Adventures in Savannah, GA
Summary
Saturday February brought non-stop Redfish action on this Savannah fishing charter. Captain Zachary Holick guided a productive 4-hour inshore trip around the rich waters of Little Tybee Island. We employed various techniques including bottom fishing, live bait fishing, and casting artificial lures, resulting in consistent Redfish catches throughout the day. The partly cloudy conditions proved ideal for targeting these powerful inshore gamefish. Captain Zach's Fishing Charter provides all necessary gear and expertise for both experienced anglers and beginners looking to experience the thrill of Savannah's winter inshore fishing. Whether you're after your first Redfish or looking to add to your angling experiences, our local knowledge of Savannah waters ensures a productive day on the water.
Fishing Charter with Zachary Holick – Rates & Booking
Captain Zachary Holick of Captain Zach's Fishing Charter on Saturday February offers 4-hour inshore fishing trips targeting the productive Redfish bite around Little Tybee Island. Our trips are designed for all skill levels, with all necessary fishing tackle, bait, and licenses included. We provide expert guidance on the latest techniques that are producing results in Savannah's inshore waters. Whether you're new to fishing or an experienced angler, our goal is to put you on fish while providing a safe, enjoyable experience on the water.
Highlights of 4-Hour Inshore Fishing Trip
Our winter Redfish trips have been consistently productive, with February offering some excellent opportunities for non-stop action. The waters around Little Tybee Island provide the perfect habitat for Redfish, with structures and transitions that hold these hard-fighting gamefish. Captain Zach's local knowledge means you'll spend more time fishing productive spots and less time searching, maximizing your chances for success during your 4-hour trip.
We utilize various techniques based on conditions, including bottom fishing with natural baits and casting artificial lures to likely holding areas. This versatility keeps the action coming throughout your trip. The partly cloudy conditions we often experience this time of year provide ideal visibility both for spotting fish and for the Redfish to locate your bait or lure.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Savannah's inshore waters provide excellent Redfish habitat, particularly around the structures and flats of Little Tybee Island. These copper-colored gamefish with their distinctive tail spot are year-round residents, but the winter months can offer some spectacular action as they school up in predictable areas. Redfish in our waters respond well to both artificial lures and natural baits like shrimp and cut mullet.
The technique we use depends on water clarity, tide stage, and where the fish are holding that day. Sometimes a slow-dragged jig along the bottom produces best, while other days they prefer a noisy topwater or a live shrimp under a popping cork. Captain Zach keeps up with the patterns daily to ensure you're using the most effective approach for current conditions.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Our fishing trips depart early morning to take advantage of prime feeding times, with exact departure times varying based on tides and seasonal patterns. We recommend wearing weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses. Feel free to bring your own food and beverages (no glass containers), as well as a camera to document your catches. Our boat comfortably accommodates small groups and provides a stable, safe platform for fishing Savannah's inshore waters. For the best experience, we recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date.
Fishing in Savannah: Redfish
The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, belongs to the Sciaenidae family and order Perciformes. These distinctive gamefish are immediately recognizable by their coppery-red backs, white bellies, and one or more black spots near the tail. In Savannah waters this February, anglers target these prized fighters for their strong runs and excellent table fare.
Redfish Overview
Redfish are one of the most popular inshore gamefish along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. They're known for their powerful fights, willingness to take a variety of baits and lures, and their adaptability to different environments. Anglers prize them both as sportfish and for their delicious, mild white flesh.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
These versatile fish inhabit coastal waters from Massachusetts to Mexico, with particularly strong populations along the southeastern United States, including Georgia's coastline. Around Savannah, Redfish thrive in the complex estuarine systems, tidal creeks, oyster beds, and grass flats. They prefer shallow waters ranging from 1-4 feet deep but can be found in deeper channels during extreme weather or seasonal transitions.
Redfish Size and Weight
In the Savannah area, most Redfish caught inshore range from 30-61 inches in length. Weight typically varies between 10-45 pounds, with trophy specimens pushing the upper end of that range. Juvenile Redfish (often called "puppy drums") are common in very shallow backwaters, while larger breeding adults may be found in nearshore waters or deeper channels.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Redfish are opportunistic feeders that primarily consume crustaceans, small baitfish, and mollusks. They're often spotted with their tails exposed while feeding head-down in shallow water (hence the term "tailing"). They tend to be most active during dawn and dusk but will feed throughout the day depending on tide cycles. In Savannah, Redfish often congregate around structure like oyster beds, creek mouths, and marsh edges where tidal movements concentrate prey.
Redfish Spawning Season
Redfish typically spawn from late summer through fall in nearshore waters and inlets. During this time, large breeding adults may form schools near channels and passes. In Georgia waters, peak spawning occurs when water temperatures range between 68-75°F. After spawning, juvenile Redfish utilize estuaries and backwaters as nursery habitats until reaching maturity.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
For Savannah Redfish, several techniques consistently produce results. Popping corks rigged with live or fresh shrimp work exceptionally well along grass lines and over oyster beds, especially on incoming tides. Soft plastic jigs in white, gold, or natural shrimp colors bounced along bottom structure are highly effective, particularly when worked slowly. Topwater plugs can trigger explosive strikes during low-light conditions. In February around Savannah, anglers often find concentrations of Redfish in deeper holes near marsh edges where the water retains warmth during colder periods.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offers excellent table fare with a mild, sweet flavor and medium-firm white flesh that flakes nicely when cooked. It's versatile enough for various preparations including blackening, grilling, baking, or using in fish tacos. Nutritionally, Redfish provides high-quality protein and beneficial omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury compared to many other gamefish. Smaller specimens (slot-size) generally offer the best eating quality.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Redfish in Savannah?
A: Live shrimp, cut mullet, and blue crabs are top natural baits for Savannah Redfish. For artificial lures, gold spoons, scented soft plastics (particularly in shrimp patterns), and shallow-running plugs are consistently effective.
Q: Where can I find Redfish near Savannah?
A: Redfish are abundant around Little Tybee Island, Wassaw Sound, and throughout the tidal creeks and marshes surrounding Savannah. Look for them near oyster beds, creek mouths, marsh edges, and deeper holes during winter months.
Q: Is Redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, Redfish is excellent table fare with a mild, sweet flavor and firm white flesh. It's versatile for various cooking methods including grilling, blackening, and baking. Smaller "slot-sized" fish typically offer the best eating quality.
Q: When is the best time to catch Redfish in Savannah?
A: Redfish can be caught year-round in Savannah, but many anglers prefer fall through early spring when water clarity improves and fish concentrate in more predictable areas. February offers excellent opportunities as fish school up in deeper holes and channels.
Q: What tackle should I use for Redfish?
A: Medium-action spinning gear with 10-20 lb test line works well for most Savannah Redfish situations. A 7-foot rod provides good casting distance while maintaining enough backbone to handle these powerful fighters around structure.
Q: Do Redfish have size and bag limits in Georgia?
A: Yes, Georgia maintains specific slot limits and bag restrictions for Redfish to protect the population. Always check current regulations before fishing as these limits may change seasonally.
