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How to Rig for Red Drum (Redfish)

Sciaenops ocellatus

Redfish are the signature inshore fish of the Gulf and southeastern Atlantic, feeding on crabs, shrimp, and mullet in shallow marsh, oyster bars, and surf sloughs. Smaller slot fish live in the marshes year-round, while big breeding bull reds school along beaches and passes in fall. They feed by smell and sight, so fresh cut bait on a circle hook is a reliable way to start.

Answer at a glance
Best rig
Fish-Finder Rig
Best bait
Cut mullet, menhaden (bunker), or blue crab on bottom along passes, inlets, and surf sloughs
Where
surf, pier, jetty, boat, kayak
Typical size
18–45 in
Season
Peak season: fall
Realistic Fish-Finder Rig fishing rig setup
#1 Best Match

Fish-Finder Rig

beginnersurf · pier · jetty · boat

The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance. Good in heavier surf or current where a fixed weight would spook a bite.

  • Main line15-20 lb monofilament
  • Leader20 lb fluorocarbon
  • Leader length12-18in from swivel to hook
  • Hooks5/0 - 8/0 circle hook
  • WeightSliding sinker, 2 - 6oz
  • Line to sinkerSlides freely above swivel, no fixed drop length
  • BaitCut mullet, menhaden (bunker), or blue crab on bottom along passes, inlets, and surf sloughs
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Realistic Carolina Rig fishing rig setup
Carolina Rig
A long leader trails behind a sliding weight, letting soft plastics or cut bait drift naturally near structure.
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Realistic Pyramid Sinker Surf Rig fishing rig setup
Pyramid Sinker Surf Rig
A heavier pyramid sinker digs into sand and holds bottom in real surf and shorebreak, where lighter rigs wash around.
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Main lineCupped corkWire, clacker beadsSurfaceLeader 18-36inLive shrimp
Popping Cork Rig
A fixed cork with a cupped face threaded on a stiff wire with rattling beads.
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Source & regulation note

Technique guidance is educational. Seasons, size limits, bag limits, closures, and protected areas can change. Always verify the current rules before fishing or keeping fish.

FishBase species profile ↗NOAA Fisheries / state agencies ↗Editorial methodology

Fishing regulations vary by location and season. Check current local regulations before fishing.

Last reviewed: 2026-09-26

Common Questions

What is the best rig for Red Drum (Redfish)?

The Fish-Finder Rig is the top recommendation for Red Drum (Redfish). The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance. Good in heavier surf or current where a fixed weight would spook a bite.

What bait works for Red Drum (Redfish)?

Check the recommended rig cards above for bait notes specific to Red Drum (Redfish).

When is the best time to catch Red Drum (Redfish)?

Peak season: fall. Typical size runs 18–45 in. Always check current regulations before keeping fish.

Where do you catch Red Drum (Redfish)?

Red Drum (Redfish) is caught while surf, pier, jetty, boat, kayak fishing. Redfish are the signature inshore fish of the Gulf and southeastern Atlantic, feeding on crabs, shrimp, and mullet in shallow marsh, oyster bars, and surf sloughs. Smaller slot fish live in the marshes year-round, while big breeding bull reds school along beaches and passes in fall. They feed by smell and sight, so fresh cut bait on a circle hook is a reliable way to start.