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Caught a trophy redfish Inshore in Savannah
Redfish Fishing in Savannah
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The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus) is an iconic gamefish along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. These copper-colored fighters are prized by anglers for their strong pulls and stubborn fights in shallow water. - Average size ranges from 30-61 inches with weights between 10-45 pounds. - Distinguished by one or more black spots near the tail. - Thrives in various habitats including flats, backcountry waters, and nearshore environments.
Fishing Charter by Captain Zachary Holick in August
Meet your Captain Zachary Holick
- Unforgettable Fishing Adventures in Savannah, GA
Summary
Our winter fishing charter in Savannah delivered non-stop redfish action on Saturday February. Captain Zach's Fishing Charter took Adam and crew for a productive 4-hour inshore trip around Little Tybee Island's rich waters. We focused on redfish using bottom fishing techniques, live bait, and artificial lures, resulting in consistent catches throughout the morning. The partly cloudy conditions created perfect visibility without harsh glare, allowing us to effectively work different fishing zones. Savannah's inshore waters truly shine during winter months, offering some of the best redfish opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you're experienced or new to fishing, our guided charters provide everything needed for a successful day on the water targeting these hard-fighting gamefish.
Fishing Charter with Zachary Holick – Rates & Booking
Captain Zachary Holick of Captain Zach's Fishing Charter on Saturday February offers specialized 4-hour inshore fishing trips targeting the abundant redfish population around Savannah. Our experienced local guide provides all necessary equipment including rods, reels, tackle, and bait to maximize your chances of success. We welcome anglers of all skill levels, from complete beginners to seasoned fishermen looking to target Savannah's premiere inshore gamefish. Morning trips typically start early to take advantage of prime feeding times, but we can accommodate different schedules based on availability. For precise pricing and to check open dates, use the booking buttons below to secure your charter with Captain Zach.
Highlights of this Inshore Fishing Trip
This winter fishing trip to Little Tybee Island showcased the excellent redfish action Savannah offers during cooler months. Throughout our 4-hour charter, we experienced consistent bites using various techniques including bottom fishing with live bait and casting artificial lures. The partly cloudy conditions provided ideal visibility on the water without harsh sun glare.
The shallow waters around Little Tybee Island provide perfect habitat for redfish, which were actively feeding throughout our trip. Captain Zach's local knowledge of productive fishing grounds ensured everyone had plenty of opportunities to hook into these hard-fighting inshore gamefish. The convenient 4-hour trip format offers enough time to experience quality fishing without consuming your entire day, making it perfect for families or anglers with limited schedules.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish in Savannah's waters thrive in the shallow, marshy areas around Little Tybee Island. During winter months, these fish often school up in deeper channels and holes where water temperatures remain more stable. The cooler water actually increases feeding activity as redfish prepare for spring, making winter an excellent time to target them.
Captain Zach employs several effective techniques for targeting Savannah redfish. Bottom fishing with fresh cut bait works exceptionally well in deeper channels, while artificial lures like soft plastics on jigheads produce great results when sight-fishing the flats during higher tides. Live bait presentations with shrimp or mud minnows under popping corks remain productive year-round, especially when worked near oyster beds and creek mouths where redfish ambush prey. The consistent winter bite makes Savannah a premier destination for anglers looking to experience quality redfish action without competing with summer crowds.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
For your day on the water with Captain Zach's Fishing Charter, dress in comfortable layers appropriate for Savannah's winter weather, which can range from cool mornings to pleasant afternoons. We provide all fishing equipment including quality rods, reels, and tackle suited for inshore redfish. Our well-maintained boat accommodates small groups comfortably, with space to move around and fish effectively.
It's recommended to bring sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), a light jacket or windbreaker, non-marking shoes, and a camera to document your catches. Feel free to bring your own beverages and snacks for the trip. Captain Zach prioritizes safety on every charter with proper safety equipment and local knowledge of Savannah's waterways. For the best experience, arrive at the meeting location 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time, and don't hesitate to communicate any special requests or accommodations needed for your group.
Fishing in Savannah: Redfish
The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, belongs to the Sciaenidae family within the order Perciformes. This striking species is immediately recognizable by its copper-bronze coloration and distinctive black spot near the tail - sometimes displaying multiple spots. In Savannah waters this February, these prized gamefish provide excellent action for winter anglers seeking hard-fighting inshore species.
Redfish Overview
Redfish are one of the most sought-after inshore gamefish along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Their popularity stems from their aggressive strikes, powerful runs, and accessibility to anglers fishing from boats, piers, or shorelines. These fish are known for their remarkable adaptability to various water conditions and their willingness to take both natural baits and artificial lures.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
These adaptable fish thrive in diverse environments including shallow flats, oyster bars, marsh edges, creek mouths, and occasionally nearshore waters. In Savannah specifically, redfish concentrate around the productive waters of Little Tybee Island, tidal creeks, and the numerous oyster beds that characterize Georgia's coastal ecosystem. They prefer areas with good water movement, particularly during tide changes which concentrate baitfish and crustaceans.
Redfish Size and Weight
Adult redfish typically measure between 30 and 61 inches in length and weigh between 10 and 45 pounds. The largest specimens, often called "bull reds," can exceed 40 pounds and are typically found in deeper channels or nearshore waters. Slot-sized redfish (those within legal harvest limits) are commonly caught in the backwaters and flats around Savannah.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Redfish are opportunistic feeders that primarily consume crustaceans, small baitfish, and mollusks. They often give away their location by creating visible "tails" when feeding head-down in shallow water. During winter months in Savannah, redfish tend to school more tightly and move into deeper creeks and channels where water temperatures remain more stable.
Redfish Spawning Season
Spawning typically occurs in late summer through fall when redfish form large schools in nearshore waters and estuaries. Female redfish can release up to two million eggs during spawning events. After hatching, juvenile redfish use estuaries as nursery grounds before gradually moving to adult habitats as they mature over several years.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Several effective methods work well for targeting redfish in Savannah waters. Bottom fishing with cut bait (mullet, shrimp, or crab) produces consistent results, particularly in deeper channels during winter. For artificial lures, gold spoons, soft plastic jerkbaits, and scented soft plastics on jigheads all trigger strikes. In February around Savannah, focus on deeper creek bends and holes where water temperatures remain more stable, as redfish will congregate in these areas during cold snaps.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offers excellent table fare with firm, white flesh that has a mild, sweet flavor. It's versatile for cooking methods including grilling, blackening, baking, or frying. The meat contains beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and is relatively low in mercury compared to other larger gamefish. Many anglers practice catch-and-release with larger breeding specimens while keeping only slot-sized fish for consumption.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish in Savannah?
A: Fresh cut mullet, live shrimp, and blue crabs are top natural baits for Savannah redfish. For artificial lures, gold spoons, scented soft plastics, and weedless jerkbaits work exceptionally well in the marshy areas around Little Tybee Island.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Savannah?
A: Productive areas include the flats and channels around Little Tybee Island, Wassaw Sound, Wilmington River, and the numerous tidal creeks that feed into the Intracoastal Waterway. During winter, focus on deeper creek channels where water temperatures remain more stable.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish is excellent eating fish with firm, white flesh that has a mild, sweet flavor. It's versatile for various cooking methods and contains healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Always check local regulations for size limits and bag restrictions.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish in Savannah?
A: While redfish can be caught year-round in Savannah, winter through early spring often produces exceptional fishing as the fish school up in predictable locations. The falling tide is particularly productive as it concentrates baitfish and forces redfish into deeper channels.
Q: What tackle should I use for redfish?
A: Medium spinning gear with 15-20 lb test line works well for most inshore redfish situations. A 7-foot rod provides good casting distance and enough backbone to handle strong runs. For artificial lures, 1/4 to 1/2 oz jigheads with soft plastics are versatile options.
Q: Are redfish and red drum the same fish?
A: Yes, redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus) and red drum are different names for the same species. Other regional names include channel bass, puppy drum (for smaller specimens), and spottail bass.
