When it comes to fly fishing for redfish, Tampa Bay in the fall is as good as it gets. If you’re a fisherman looking for solid action, then this time of year can be prime. The redfish, or “reds” as we often call them, are moving into the bay’s inshore waters, making them more accessible. It’s the perfect opportunity to get your fly rod in hand and enjoy what these local waters have to offer.
Understanding Redfish Behavior in Fall
Redfish are a resilient species, known for their ability to thrive in a wide range of conditions. But in the fall, their behavior shifts in a way that benefits fly fishermen. When the water starts cooling off, reds gather in schools, sometimes numbering in the hundreds. You’ll find these schools roaming the shallow flats, bays, and backcountry creeks as they prepare for winter. This makes it an ideal time to target them with a fly rod.
In Tampa Bay, the fall is all about transition. As temperatures start dropping, redfish that were previously spread out in deeper water begin moving into the shallows. They’re following baitfish like mullet and pinfish, which are also migrating to shallower areas. The reds will be feeding aggressively, trying to fatten up before the cooler winter months.
This shift in feeding behavior is what makes fall such a good time to fish. Reds aren’t overly cautious right now. They’re on the hunt and less spooky, which gives you a better chance of a strike. The other plus? The wind is typically lighter in the fall, so you don’t have to battle heavy gusts while casting your fly. That means you can focus on perfecting your presentation.
Where to Find Redfish in Tampa Bay
If you’re fly fishing for redfish in Tampa Bay during the fall, there are a few spots you should focus on. The bay’s inshore waterways are full of flats, mangroves, and channels that provide excellent habitat for reds.
Shallow Flats
First off, shallow flats are a major draw for redfish. Flats are large, open areas of shallow water, sometimes just a foot or two deep, and they attract plenty of baitfish. Redfish will cruise these flats, often tailing, which is when you see their tails breaking the surface as they feed on the bottom. This behavior is a telltale sign that redfish are in the area, and it’s one of the most exciting sights in fly fishing.
Flats near the eastern shoreline of Tampa Bay, like those around Cockroach Bay and Bishop’s Harbor, are good spots to start. You’ll often find reds cruising these waters in the early morning or late afternoon, especially when the tide is moving. Fly fishing on the flats can be a bit tricky because reds are wary in these shallow waters, but it’s rewarding once you hook one.
Mangrove Shorelines and Creeks
Besides flats, redfish love to hang out around mangroves, particularly when the tide is higher. Mangrove shorelines offer plenty of cover and food, making them a prime spot for reds to feed. Focus on casting close to the mangroves, especially around points, creek mouths, or anywhere there’s a lot of structure.
When you’re fishing in the backcountry creeks, you’ll often find reds in the narrow channels, patrolling for baitfish. These creeks also warm up a bit faster than open water, so reds will often move in to take advantage of the slightly higher water temps. Working your fly along the edges or right into the gaps of the mangroves can bring some hard strikes. Just be prepared to pull them out of the tight cover.
Fly Selection for Fall Redfish
Fly fishing for redfish isn’t all that complicated when it comes to fly patterns, but it’s important to have a good selection with you. In the fall, reds are keying in on baitfish, shrimp, and crabs. If you match those patterns, you’ll have a good shot at getting them to bite.
A few fly patterns that work well for redfish in the fall include:
- Clouser Minnow: The Clouser Minnow is a go-to fly for many saltwater species, and redfish are no exception. It mimics the baitfish that reds are feeding on, and it works well on both the flats and in the deeper channels. Chartreuse and white is a good color combo for Tampa Bay.
- EP Baitfish: This pattern imitates mullet, a key food source for redfish in the fall. It has great movement in the water, which can make it irresistible to a hungry red. It’s particularly effective when fishing along the mangroves or near schools of baitfish.
- Shrimp and Crab Patterns: Reds love shrimp and crabs, especially when they’re rooting around in the grass flats or near mangroves. A well-presented shrimp or crab fly can be deadly, especially if the fish are being picky.
When fishing these patterns, it’s important to remember that redfish often feed by sight and sound. That means you want your fly to land quietly but still have enough action to grab their attention. A slow, steady retrieve is often the best approach, but if you notice the fish following your fly without committing, try speeding it up to entice a strike.
Fly Fishing Techniques for Redfish
When fly fishing for redfish, presentation is key. Redfish aren’t as easily spooked as some species, but they’re still cautious, especially in shallow water. You’ll want to cast just ahead of the fish so your fly lands naturally in their path. Casting directly at them can send them scattering.
One of the most exciting aspects of fishing for redfish is sight fishing. This involves spotting the fish before you cast and then presenting your fly in a way that mimics their natural prey. When redfish are tailing on the flats, it’s a prime time for sight fishing. The goal is to lead the fish by a few feet, giving them time to see and react to the fly as it drops into their line of sight.
If you’re fishing around mangroves or in the backcountry creeks, the approach changes slightly. Here, you might not be able to see the fish before casting, so you’ll need to rely more on feel and timing. Reds in these areas will often hold tight to structure, so casting close to the mangroves or under overhanging branches is key. Be prepared for a quick, aggressive strike, as redfish in these areas tend to ambush their prey.
Tidal Influence
Tides play a big role in how redfish move and feed, and fall is no different. In fact, understanding the tides might be the most important factor when fly fishing for redfish in Tampa Bay. Redfish move with the tide, coming into the flats and shallows as the water rises and retreating to deeper channels when it drops.
An incoming tide is often the best time to target reds, especially on the flats. As the water floods the shallow areas, redfish will move in to feed on baitfish, shrimp, and crabs that are pushed into the area. On the outgoing tide, they’ll often be found hanging around the edges of flats or near the mouths of creeks, waiting for food to be washed out.
Knowing when and where the tide is moving will help you plan your day on the water. Many local fishermen use tide charts to predict where the reds will be at any given time.
Final Thoughts
Fly fishing for redfish in Tampa Bay’s inshore waters during the fall is about as good as it gets. The cooler temperatures and abundance of fish make it a perfect time to get out on the water. Whether you’re working the shallow flats or fishing around the mangroves, there’s plenty of opportunity to hook into some solid redfish.
Take advantage of the season and focus on where the fish are moving. Keep an eye on the tides, present your fly carefully, and you’ll be well on your way to landing some good-sized reds. It’s all about timing, patience, and a little bit of skill with the fly rod. And with the way Redfish school up in the fall, you might just find yourself with multiple hook-ups in a single day. That’s a day well spent in Tampa Bay.
If you’re ready to experience Tampa Bay’s fall redfish run, West Coast Fishing Adventures is your go-to for an unforgettable day on the water. Led by Capt. Chris Brown, a fifth-generation fisherman with decades of experience, you’ll have an expert by your side who knows these waters inside and out. From the flats around Pinellas to the creeks down near Boca Grande, Capt. Chris tailors each trip to your skill level, whether you’re an experienced fly fisherman or just starting.
Fishing with Capt. Chris isn’t just about catching fish, it’s about learning and enjoying every moment on the water. He’s passionate about putting anglers on fish, and his deep knowledge of the local tides, redfish behavior, and fly selection will help you land that hard-fighting red you’ve been after. Don’t miss the chance to experience the best of Tampa Bay’s inshore waters this fall. Book your trip with West Coast Fishing Adventures and get ready for a day of action and great memories.
