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Caught a trophy redfish Inshore in Savannah
Redfish Inshore in Savannah
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The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus) belongs to the Sciaenidae family and is one of Savannah's most prized inshore gamefish. These powerful fighters typically measure between 30-61 inches and can weigh anywhere from 10-45 pounds when fully grown. - Known for their copper-red coloration and distinctive black spot near the tail - Prefer shallow water habitats including flats, backcountry areas, and nearshore zones - Put up an impressive fight when hooked, making them a favorite among sport fishermen
Fishing Charter by Captain Zachary Holick in August
Meet your Captain Zachary Holick
- Unforgettable Fishing Adventures in Savannah, GA
Summary
Tuesday July fishing in Savannah was hot as Captain Zach's Fishing Charter took Michael out for some serious inshore action. Launching from River Drive under partly cloudy skies, we targeted redfish using a mix of live bait fishing and artificial lures. The redfish were biting, and Michael connected with some quality catches that put up an impressive fight. Our private charter provided all the gear needed and focused on the prime inshore spots where these copper-colored fighters prowl. Whether you're a beginner or experienced angler, these inshore waters offer some of the best fishing Savannah has to offer, with redfish being the star attraction during summer months. The marsh ecosystem creates perfect habitat for these hard-hitting gamefish, making for an action-packed day on the water.
Fishing Charter with Zachary Holick – Rates & Booking
Captain Zachary Holick of Captain Zach's Fishing Charter on Tuesday July offers private inshore fishing trips targeting redfish in Savannah's productive waters. Our Private Inshore Fishing Trip accommodates up to 4 guests with all necessary fishing gear provided. We launch from 2812 River Dr, putting you right in the heart of prime redfish territory. As a licensed captain with extensive local knowledge, I'll guide you to the hot spots where these hard-fighting fish are active. Whether you're a beginner wanting to learn the basics or an experienced angler looking to refine your technique, I'll tailor the experience to your skill level. Live bait, artificial lures, and bottom fishing techniques are all part of our approach to maximize your chances of success.
Highlights of Private Inshore Fishing Trip
Our inshore fishing charter focuses on Savannah's rich estuaries and salt marshes, prime habitat for redfish and other inshore species. You'll experience the thrill of hooking into these powerful fish known for their strong runs and determined fights. The partly cloudy conditions often provide ideal fishing conditions, keeping the fish active and willing to strike.
This trip is perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo anglers looking to experience some of Georgia's best inshore fishing. Throughout your time on the water, I'll share local knowledge about the area, fish habits, and effective techniques to help you connect with these prized gamefish. The scenic backdrop of Savannah's coastal ecosystem adds to the experience, making for both productive fishing and memorable views.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish, also known as Red Drum, thrive in Savannah's inshore waters. These copper-colored fighters with their distinctive black spot near the tail are a favorite target for local and visiting anglers alike. During summer months, they can be found cruising the flats, hiding near structure, and patrolling the edges of marsh grass where they hunt for crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish.
The technique we use depends on conditions and fish behavior. When the redfish are actively feeding, we might use artificial lures like soft plastics or gold spoons. During more challenging times, live bait such as shrimp or mud minnows often produces best results. The partly cloudy conditions we often experience in summer provide just enough cover to keep these fish comfortable and feeding in shallow water throughout the day.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
For your day on the water, I recommend bringing sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera to document your catch. Our boat is well-equipped with quality rods, reels, tackle, and live bait when needed. We also provide ice to keep any keeper fish fresh.
Morning trips typically start around sunrise when the waters are calmer and fish are actively feeding, while afternoon trips take advantage of changing tides and different feeding patterns. Our flexible scheduling allows us to target the best tide conditions for redfish success. With a maximum of 4 guests, everyone gets plenty of attention and fishing opportunity. Water and basic snacks are provided, but feel free to bring your favorite beverages or additional food for the trip.
Fishing in Savannah: Redfish
The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, is a member of the Sciaenidae family in the order Perciformes. These distinctive fish are easily identified by their coppery-red coloration and one or more black spots near the tail. In Savannah waters this July, anglers target these prized gamefish for their strong fights and excellent table fare.
Redfish Overview
Redfish are one of the most sought-after inshore species along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Their popularity stems from their accessibility to anglers fishing from boats, piers, and even shorelines, as well as their reputation for putting up a substantial fight when hooked. Savannah anglers particularly value redfish for their year-round availability and adaptability to various fishing techniques.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
Redfish thrive in diverse coastal environments including marshes, flats, oyster beds, and nearshore waters. In Savannah, they're commonly found around structure-rich areas where tidal movements create feeding opportunities. Adults prefer slightly deeper channels while juveniles, often called "puppy drum," frequent extremely shallow waters near marsh grass edges where they find protection and abundant food sources.
Redfish Size and Weight
Typical redfish in the Savannah area range from 30 to 61 inches in length. Weight-wise, these powerful fighters can tip the scales anywhere from 10 to 45 pounds, with trophy specimens occasionally exceeding this range. The fish's robust body shape contributes to its fighting ability, making even medium-sized specimens feel substantially larger when hooked.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Redfish are opportunistic feeders, primarily consuming crustaceans like crabs and shrimp, along with smaller baitfish and occasionally even small stingrays. They often feed by tilting downward, with their tails sometimes breaking the water surface (known as "tailing") as they root through bottom sediment for prey. Their feeding behavior intensifies during moving tides when prey becomes more vulnerable.
Redfish Spawning Season
Spawning activity for redfish typically peaks in late summer and early fall, with some spawning continuing through October. During this time, mature redfish gather in coastal waters and near inlet mouths. Females can release up to two million eggs during spawning events, which are then fertilized externally. Water temperature plays a crucial role, with 68-75°F being optimal for successful reproduction.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Several effective methods produce results when targeting redfish in Savannah waters. For artificial lures, gold spoons, soft plastic jigs in white or new penny colors, and topwater plugs during low light conditions all work well. When using live bait, fresh shrimp, mud minnows, or finger mullet rigged on a circle hook with just enough weight to hold bottom is the preferred approach. In July, anglers around Savannah find redfish concentrated around oyster bars and creek mouths during falling tides when water temperatures peak and baitfish are abundant.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offers excellent table fare with a mild, sweet flavor and medium-firm white flesh that flakes easily when cooked. It's versatile enough for various preparation methods, with blackening, grilling, and baking being particularly popular. Nutritionally, redfish is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury compared to many other saltwater species, making it both delicious and healthy when consumed in moderation.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish in Savannah?
A: Live shrimp, mud minnows, and cut mullet are top natural baits for Savannah redfish. For artificial lures, gold spoons, scented soft plastics, and shallow-running plugs produce consistent results, especially when worked slowly along structure edges during moving tides.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Savannah?
A: Redfish in the Savannah area are commonly found around oyster bars, marsh edges, tidal creeks, and river mouths. During summer months, look for them in shallower waters during early morning and evening hours, moving to slightly deeper channels during the heat of the day.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish is considered excellent table fare with a mild, sweet flavor and medium-firm texture. The white meat is versatile for various cooking methods, with blackening and grilling being particularly popular preparations that highlight its natural flavor.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish in Savannah?
A: While redfish can be caught year-round in Savannah, the prime seasons are late spring through fall. In terms of tide, the last two hours of falling tide and first two hours of rising tide typically produce the best action as these fish move in and out of shallow feeding areas.
Q: What size redfish can you keep in Georgia?
A: Georgia fishing regulations specify a slot limit for redfish (red drum), typically allowing harvest of fish between 14-23 inches total length, with a daily bag limit of five fish per person. Always check current regulations before fishing as limits can change.
Q: Do redfish have teeth?
A: Redfish don't have sharp, pointed teeth like some predatory fish. Instead, they possess rounded, plate-like pharyngeal teeth located in their throat which they use to crush shellfish and crustaceans. This makes them relatively safe to handle around the mouth area when unhooking.
