Redfish (Red Drum) Fishing in Alabama
Check regulations
Check regulations
Year-round
Overview
The Redfish (Red Drum) is a popular saltwater game fish found throughout Alabama. The redfish, also known as red drum, is the undisputed king of inshore saltwater fishing along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts.
Best Waters in Alabama
- Mobile Delta — bay. Species: redfish, speckled-trout, flounder, blue-catfish.
Local Techniques & Baits
Techniques
- live-bait
- artificial-lure-selection
- drift-fishing
Baits & Lures
- Live shrimp
- Live blue crab (cut or whole)
- Live mullet (finger mullet)
- Gold spoon (weedless)
- Soft plastic jerkbait (new penny, rootbeer)
- Topwater plug
- Popping cork with shrimp
- Cut mullet
- Gulp! shrimp
Seasonal Guide for Alabama
SpringSpring Fishing
Redfish become increasingly active as water temperatures climb into the mid-60s. They push onto shallow flats to feed on crabs and shrimp, making spring an excellent time for sight-fishing. Focus on spartina grass edges, oyster bars, and warming mud flats during incoming tides.
SummerSummer Fishing
Summer brings consistent action on the flats, especially during early morning and late evening hours. Redfish seek shade and moving water during the heat of midday, often holding near dock pilings, mangrove roots, and deeper channels. Live bait under a popping cork is deadly during this season.
FallFall Fishing
Fall is the premier redfish season as massive schools of bull reds congregate near passes, inlets, and along beaches for the annual spawning run. Slot-size fish remain aggressive on the flats while oversized bulls stack up in nearshore waters. This is the best time of year for trophy redfish.
WinterWinter Fishing
Redfish slow down but remain catchable in deeper holes, channels, and areas with dark mud bottoms that absorb warmth. Fish on the warmest part of the day and focus on slower presentations near structure. In the deep South, mild winters can still produce decent flats fishing on sunny afternoons.
Regulations
Regulations change frequently. Always verify current regulations with Alabama Fish & Wildlife. Information shown was last updated 2025-01-01.
Specific regulations for redfish (red drum) in Alabama are not listed in our database. Please check the official Alabama regulations for current rules.