Sight Casting to Winter Redfish

Saltwater Inshore Discussion
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I’m just getting started fly fishing, and my biggest issue right now is finding the fish. With spin gear I can just work areas that I feel will produce (even if I don’t see any fish there), but when fly fishing I really want to be sight casting to them.

I’ve been checking low tide flats and pockets off of larger creeks/rivers, but really haven’t seen many fish. Do I need to work into small feeder creeks, or do I just need to put in more time to find other similar areas right off the waterways? I’m trying to understand the difference between “late fall” patterns and “winter” patterns. My understanding is to start fishing low tide flats as the water temp drops, but do they leave those flats and school up way back in the creeks when the temp drops enough for them to be in a true “winter” pattern?

Sorry for the kind of vague questions, I’m just trying to figure out some general seasonal behavior of the fish. Trying to sight cast adds a whole new element to the game – it’s really challenging so far. Been skunked quite a few times since I’ve started, and I’m hoping to get my first red OTF soon!

Thanks,

Bryson

1994 Hewes Redfisher 18, 2004 Yamaha 150 VMAX
Malibu X-Factor Kayak

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The reds will move OUT of the backs of smaller creeks when the water gets below 50 degrees in some areas. If you find a flats school, they will be there the entire year. It sounds to me you just need to cover more water on your searches. This is where a good trolling motor is your best tool. You should be able to cover miles of main river/intracoastal banks in a day’s time. High blue skies, light winds, and low tide occurring from 10-2 are peak days for sight fishing. Unfortunately, they don’t come much on weekends.

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quote:
Originally posted by RADDADDY Unfortunately, they don't come much on weekends.

master of the understatement.

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Work isn’t that important is it ??

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Today was THE DAY to scout, just sayin.