Common Habits of Redfish in Tampa Bay Waters

Redfish in Tampa Bay show distinct behaviors that help anglers find and catch them throughout the year. These copper-colored fish adapt their feeding patterns based on tides, weather, and seasonal changes. Understanding these habits makes fishing for redfish more productive in Tampa's diverse waters.

Feeding Patterns

Tampa Bay redfish follow specific feeding habits that change with conditions. They often push into shallow water during high tides, searching for crabs and small baitfish. During low tides, they gather in deeper potholes and channels where they wait for passing food.

Daily Movement Cycles

1. Morning Activity:
   • Active on shallow flats
   • Tailing during sunrise
   • Feeding near oyster bars
   • Following mullet schools
2. Afternoon Patterns:
   • Moving to deeper water
   • Seeking shade under mangroves
   • Schooling in channels
   • Responding to tide changes

Seasonal Behavior Changes

Each season brings different redfish habits:

• Spring: Scattered on flats, feeding on crabs
• Summer: Early morning shallow water activity
• Fall: Schooling behavior increases
• Winter: Moving to deeper, warmer waters

Preferred Habitats

1. Primary Locations:
   • Grass flat edges
   • Oyster bars during high tide
   • Mangrove shorelines
   • Creek mouths
2. Structure Types:
   • Natural potholes
   • Channel edges
   • Dock shadows
   • Sandy potholes

Weather Impact on Behavior

Weather conditions affect redfish activity:

• Strong tides increase feeding
• Cold fronts push fish deeper
• Warm periods bring shallow water action
• Wind direction affects water clarity

At Steady Action Fishing Charters, we study redfish patterns daily to put our clients on fish. Our experience with Tampa Bay redfish behavior helps anglers catch more fish consistently. We know where these fish feed and how they react to changing conditions. Contact Steady Action Fishing Charters at 813-727-9890 to book a Tampa Bay redfish charter.