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The Sciaenops Ocellatus belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. It typically measures between 30 and 61 inches in length, with a weight range from 10 to 45 lbs. Habitat: onshore, flats, backcountry, nearshore. - Redfish are also known as Red Drum and are prized gamefish along Atlantic coastlines. - These fish can be identified by distinctive eyespots near the tail and copper-red coloration.
Captain Zachary Holick of Captain Zach's Fishing Charter on Wednesday April delivered an exceptional inshore fishing experience near Savannah, GA. This 6-hour charter targeted redfish in the productive waters around Daufuskie Landing, where spring conditions created ideal opportunities for bottom fishing and live bait casting. The trip showcased why Savannah's inshore waters consistently produce trophy catches, with techniques ranging from trolling to targeted casting in shallow flats and backcountry areas. Local guides like Captain Zach provide all necessary gear and expertise, making these waters accessible for both experienced anglers and newcomers seeking authentic Georgia coastal fishing adventures.
Captain Zachary Holick of Captain Zach's Fishing Charter on Wednesday April offers comprehensive 6-hour inshore trips targeting redfish and other coastal species. These licensed charter experiences include all fishing gear, live bait, and local expertise for successful days on Savannah's productive waters. Trips depart from Daufuskie Landing with flexible scheduling to match optimal tide and weather conditions. Book directly with Captain Zach for current rates and availability—his local knowledge of seasonal patterns and productive fishing spots ensures memorable experiences for anglers of all skill levels.
This charter specializes in inshore fishing techniques perfectly suited to Savannah's diverse coastal environment. The trip combines bottom fishing, live bait casting, and trolling methods to maximize opportunities across different water depths and structures. Captain Zach's approach adapts to daily conditions, targeting productive flats, backcountry areas, and nearshore waters where redfish, trout, and other species feed actively.
The 6-hour format provides ample time to explore multiple fishing spots while allowing for technique adjustments based on fish activity and guest preferences. All necessary equipment is provided, from rods and reels to live bait and tackle, ensuring guests can focus entirely on the fishing experience rather than gear preparation.
Redfish thrive in Savannah's inshore waters, particularly around the shallow flats and backcountry areas near Daufuskie Landing. These copper-colored gamefish prefer water depths of 1-4 feet, making them ideal targets for sight fishing and live bait presentations. Spring months like April offer excellent redfish action as these fish become more active in warming waters, feeding aggressively on crabs, shrimp, and baitfish. The 32-inch redfish caught during this trip represents the quality fishing available in these waters, where trophy-sized fish regularly patrol the grass flats and oyster bars that define Georgia's coastal landscape.
Captain Zach's 6-hour inshore trips accommodate small groups with personalized attention to technique and safety. Departures from Daufuskie Landing provide quick access to prime fishing areas while maintaining comfortable travel times. The charter includes all fishing equipment, live bait, and ice for your catch, with Captain Zach handling navigation, fish cleaning, and local regulation compliance. Guests should bring sun protection, snacks, and beverages for the full-day experience. Early morning starts typically yield the best results, though Captain Zach adjusts timing based on tidal movements and seasonal fish behavior patterns.
The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, is a premier gamefish belonging to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. These distinctive copper-colored fish are easily identified by one or more black eyespots near their tail and their characteristic red-bronze back that fades to a white belly. In Savannah waters this April, redfish provide some of the most exciting inshore fishing opportunities along Georgia's coast.
Redfish are highly prized by anglers for their fighting ability and excellent table fare. These drum family members can live over 40 years and grow to impressive sizes, with the largest specimens exceeding 50 pounds. They're known for their powerful runs and stubborn fights, making them a favorite target for both recreational and charter fishing operations.
These adaptable fish inhabit shallow coastal waters from Massachusetts to northern Mexico, with Georgia's waters providing ideal habitat. Around Savannah, redfish frequent grass flats, oyster bars, creek mouths, and backcountry areas where they feed in water as shallow as 12 inches. They prefer structured environments with good tidal flow and abundant forage.
Adult redfish typically range from 30 to 61 inches in length, weighing between 10 and 45 pounds. Slot-size fish (14-23 inches in Georgia) are most commonly caught, while oversized "bull" redfish over 27 inches provide trophy opportunities. The largest recorded redfish weighed 94 pounds, though fish over 40 pounds are considered exceptional catches.
Redfish are opportunistic feeders that consume crabs, shrimp, mullet, menhaden, and various baitfish. They often feed in shallow water with their tails exposed, a behavior called "tailing" that creates excellent sight-fishing opportunities. Peak feeding occurs during moving tides, particularly around dawn and dusk when baitfish are most active.
Spawning occurs in nearshore waters from August through November, with peak activity in September and October. During this period, large schools of mature redfish gather in deeper water to spawn, creating spectacular fishing opportunities. Water temperatures between 70-80°F trigger spawning behavior, with females releasing millions of eggs into the water column.
Successful redfish techniques include live bait fishing with shrimp, crabs, or mullet, artificial lure fishing with spoons, soft plastics, and topwater plugs, and fly fishing with crab and shrimp patterns. In April around Savannah, anglers find success casting to visible fish on shallow flats during incoming tides, particularly around oyster bars and grass edges where redfish ambush prey.
Redfish offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. The flesh is lean and flakes easily when cooked, making it versatile for grilling, blackening, or frying. Redfish are high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury, making them a healthy seafood choice for regular consumption.
Q: What is the best bait for redfish?
A: Live or cut shrimp, blue crabs, and mullet are top natural baits. For artificials, gold spoons, soft plastic paddle tails, and topwater plugs work excellently in shallow water.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Savannah?
A: Focus on shallow grass flats, oyster bars, creek mouths, and backcountry areas around Daufuskie Landing, Calibogue Sound, and the Savannah River system during moving tides.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish have excellent flavor with firm, white meat that's perfect for blackening, grilling, or frying. They're considered one of the best eating fish in coastal waters.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?
A: Spring through fall offers excellent redfish action, with April through June and September through November being peak seasons. Fish moving tides during dawn and dusk for best results.