Redfish (Red Drum) Fishing

Redfish—also called red drum—are one of the signature gamefish in Southwest Florida, and Fort Myers is a fantastic place to target them year-round. At Sea n Red Charters, Captain Erik Johnson helps families, first-timers, and experienced anglers enjoy a relaxed day on the water while learning how reds feed, move with the tides, and strike with real power. Known for their copper-bronze color and the famous tail spot, redfish are fun to catch, photo-worthy, and a true “Florida classic” for visitors exploring Fort Myers waters.

Getting to Know Redfish in Fort Myers Coastal Waters

Redfish are easy to recognize once you’ve seen one: a copper-to-bronze body that fades to a lighter belly, and usually one or more dark spots near the base of the tail. That tail spot is often described as a decoy “eye” that helps confuse predators. Reds are strong, stubborn fighters—especially when they dig down and pull along the bottom.

For most guests, redfish are a great match because they’re accessible for beginners yet still exciting for seasoned anglers. Smaller “puppy drum” and mid-size reds are common targets on inshore trips, while larger “bull reds” can show up closer to passes, inlets, and coastal structure depending on season and conditions. They feed on crustaceans and baitfish—think shrimp, crabs, mullet, and other local forage—so they’re often caught using practical, straightforward techniques.

Where to Find Redfish

Redfish are extremely adaptable and can live in a wide range of habitats. Around Fort Myers, you’ll commonly find them in protected back-bay waters, along mangrove shorelines, around grass flats, and in zones where food concentrates.

Juvenile and mid-size reds often spend a lot of time in estuaries and bay systems, especially where they can hunt shrimp and crabs along edges and bottom contours. As they mature, redfish may shift toward more nearshore-oriented areas, including passes and coastal structure, while still making seasonal movements based on water temperature and forage.

Rather than “secret spots,” think in terms of patterns: edges with moving water, areas with bait, and bottom types that hold crabs and shrimp. That’s the approach we use—find where the fish are feeding and put you in the best position to get a bite.

Best Time to Catch Redfish

One reason redfish are so popular is simple: Fort Myers has redfish opportunities in every season. That said, timing can improve consistency.

Fall (late summer into fall): Many anglers love this stretch because redfish feed aggressively as conditions shift and bait activity stays high. Spawning activity for mature fish is commonly associated with late summer and fall in coastal waters and near passes/inlets.
Winter: Cooler water often pushes redfish toward seagrass, muddy or sandy bottoms, oyster-related areas, and warmer pockets like spring-fed creeks. On colder mornings, they may prefer deeper or protected zones until the sun warms the flats.
Spring: A great season for steady action as water warms and fish spread out again, often cruising shorelines and structure.
Summer: Early starts can be productive. Reds feed heavily, and you may see classic shallow-water behavior when they’re rooting for food along the bottom.

Captain Erik bases the day’s plan on tide movement, water clarity, wind, and where bait is holding—because those details matter more than the calendar alone.

How We Catch Redfish on Our Charters

Redfish are known for being willing biters when you match the presentation to the conditions. On our trips, we keep the approach simple and guest-friendly:

Live bait: Live shrimp is a classic choice in Florida, often fished under a cork when fish are cruising or holding along edges. Depending on conditions, drifting or placing bait closer to the bottom can also be effective.
Artificial lures: Soft plastics, jigs, and spoons can work great when fish are active. When water is clear and the bite is on, this can be a fun, hands-on way for guests to learn casting and retrieval.
Reading the water: Redfish often feed on the bottom. In very shallow water, you may even see “tailing” behavior (tail out of the water) when they’re rooting in grass for crabs and shrimp.

Captain Erik adjusts the plan to your comfort level—helping beginners with timing and hook sets while letting experienced anglers be as technical as they want.

Redfish (Red Drum) Fishing Charters

If redfish is on your must-catch list, Captain Erik Johnson will tailor the day around conditions that give you the best shot—without making the trip feel rushed or complicated. Sea n Red Charters is built for private, relaxed days on the water, with clear guidance, quality gear, and a pace that works for families and visitors. Many guests book us specifically because they want Fort Myers fishing charters that feel personal, not crowded—and this is exactly where redfish shine as a target species for a smooth, memorable trip.

Our Fishing Charter Services

Sea n Red Charters offers a mix of trips that fit different goals and schedules. Our Inshore Fishing Charters are great for protected waters, learning, and steady action, while Nearshore Charters are ideal when you want to explore slightly farther out for reef-oriented species and variety. We also run Freshwater Charters and Saltwater Fishing Charters depending on your season and interests. Want something more laid-back? Our Shelling & Sightseeing Tours are perfect for families who want to cruise and explore local beaches and coastal scenery. If you’re comparing fishing charters Fort Myers visitors recommend, we focus on comfort, safety, and a truly guided experience.

Pricing for Our Fishing Charters

Our pricing is designed to be clear, fair, and flexible for different types of anglers. Whether you’re planning a short outing or a full day on the water, we offer private charter options that fit families, couples, and serious anglers looking for a relaxed, well-guided experience in Fort Myers.

Tackle & Techniques for Redfish Fishing

Redfish are well known for feeding close to the bottom, which makes tackle selection and presentation especially important. For most Fort Myers conditions, light to medium spinning tackle is ideal, allowing anglers to feel subtle bites while still having enough strength to handle strong runs. A simple setup helps beginners stay comfortable and focused, while experienced anglers still enjoy the fight redfish are known for.

Live bait is commonly used when redfish are holding along shorelines, flats, or deeper edges. Shrimp, small crabs, or baitfish naturally match what redfish feed on and are effective when presented slowly near the bottom. Artificial lures also work well when fish are active, especially soft plastics, jigs, or spoons that mimic local prey. Casting accuracy and controlled retrieves matter more than speed, as redfish often strike when a bait stays in their feeding zone.

Presentation changes with water depth, tide movement, and clarity, so adapting techniques throughout the trip is key to consistent success.

Real Stories from Real Days on the Water

      
   Sea n Red Charters
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   Evan Merritt 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Erik provides a catered experience to ensure you enjoy your time on the water, he’s very knowledgeable, professional and personable. We had our family out, young and old- all had a great experience. When you go with him you’re helping him provide for his young family! Will be coming back.
  
 
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   KL Hunt 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My Grandson and myself chartered Captain EJ when my grandson was playing at the 17U World Series. It was a great decision. We had an awesome fishing adventure!! Captain Erik is great and ensures that we were treated to the best fishing possible. We caught Goliath Grouper and Tarpon as well as all the bait fish (which was almost as much fun)! Thanks Erik!! He treated us like family! Don’t charter with anyone else!
  
 
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   Sarah Jane Forman 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Fishing with Sea N Red Charters in Fort Myers was an unforgettable experience. Captain Erik Johnson is one of the kindest and most gracious captains I’ve ever met — patient, tolerant, and genuinely respectful of everyone on board. His calm presence and good-natured spirit made the entire trip feel welcoming and enjoyable. What truly stands out about Captain Erik is his deep appreciation for the natural world. He doesn’t just guide you across the water — he shares the beauty, rhythm, and life of the environment around you. You can feel how much he cares about the sea, the wildlife, and the places he works in. On top of that, he absolutely knows where the fish are. His knowledge of the area is exceptional, and he leads with integrity, skill, and confidence. We felt completely safe the entire time — he is a truly seaworthy captain who takes his responsibility seriously. If you’re looking for a charter experience that is meaningful, fun, and full of fish  — and full of heart— Captain Erik with SeaNRed Charters is the one to book. Highly recommended.
  
 
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   Margo Pucciarelli 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had such an incredible experience fishing with Eric from Sea n Red Fishing Charters! Our family went out on two 4-hour trips, and both were amazing — we caught a ton of fish thanks to Eric’s expertise and guidance. He took us to several great spots, and we ended up catching a wide variety, including snook, ladyfish, sea trout, and redfish. Eric was patient, knowledgeable, and so accommodating, especially with our kids. He went above and beyond to make sure everyone had fun and left with a big smile (and plenty of fish!). We truly appreciate the extra time and care he took to make the trip special. Highly recommend Sea n Red Fishing Charters — we’ll definitely be booking again next time we visit Cape Coral & Ft Myers!
  
 
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   Dess F 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing captain, knows the water like the back of his hand.
  
 
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   Matthew Reber 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Erik is a phenomenal fishing guide - nothing but good times & great fishing every time we have been out with him. Will continue to use Sea N Red in the future!
  
 
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   Tyler Mullins 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Awesome fishing experience. 2nd time fishing with Erik, very knowledgeable and personable guide.
  
 
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   Jacksepticeye Ninja 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 10/10 recommend this guy is so nice and he knows what he is doing I had the time of my life!
  
 
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   Cody Dieast 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. One of the best fishing trips I have been on if you haven’t been out with Eric book a trip very informative and professional
  
 
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   Donovan Lorah 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I highly recommend Captain Eric!!! I fish with him twice now, first time chasing peacocks by land and the second time a dream of mine to fish Okeechobee Lake since I’ve been a teenager with short notice he made it happen. as you look at the pics, we were very successful.. Eric is very knowledgeable if there’s a species you’re looking to catch in Southwest Florida you got the best shot with Captain Eric To make it come true… I got a few more on my bucket list, so we’ll be fishing together again soon🎣🎣🎣🎣

Why Book Your Redfish Charter with Sea N Red Charters?

15+ years of hands-on experience helping guests connect with snook

Productive local waters close to the dock, minimizing travel time

Family-friendly trips with calm, patient instruction

Flexible 4, 6, and 8-hour private charters to fit your schedule

Quality light-tackle gear and live bait included on every trip

Our Gallery

A Look at Life on the Water

Our gallery highlights real moments from actual trips — big smiles, great catches, calm backwaters, and family-friendly adventures. These photos offer a genuine look at what it’s like to spend a day fishing, learning, and enjoying Southwest Florida waters with our crew.

Latest Fishing Reports & Charter Updates

FAQs

Your Questions, Answered by the Captain

What makes redfish so popular in Fort Myers?

Redfish are popular because they’re widely available in Southwest Florida, they fight hard, and they’re a great “all-skill-level” fish. You don’t need to be an expert to catch one, but even experienced anglers love how reds pull and run—especially around structure. They also live in a variety of habitats, so you can have productive trips in different seasons and weather patterns. If you want a classic Florida target that’s fun for families, redfish is hard to beat—book with Sea n Red Charters in Fort Myers for a guided, stress-free day.

When is redfish spawning season in Florida waters?

Redfish spawning activity is commonly associated with late summer through fall, and they often gather near passes, inlets, and coastal shorelines during that time. You may hear the “drumming” sound males make by vibrating their swim bladder—one reason they’re called drum. Conditions change year to year, so Captain Erik focuses on tides, bait movement, and water clarity to plan the best approach. For the most accurate guidance based on your travel dates, contact Sea n Red Charters in Fort Myers and we’ll help you plan.

What bait works best for redfish in Fort Myers?

Live shrimp is a top producer for redfish in Florida, especially under a cork when fish are feeding along edges and flats. Reds also eat crabs and mullet, and in some situations, baitfish presentations can work well near the bottom. If you like artificials, soft plastics, jigs, and spoons can be very effective when fish are active and water clarity allows. We’ll match the bait to conditions so you’re not guessing—book a Fort Myers charter with Sea n Red Charters and let Captain Erik dial in the right setup.

What are the basic redfish rules in Florida?

Florida redfish regulations are managed by region, and rules can include a slot size and a daily bag limit. In many areas, a common rule is a one-fish daily bag with an 18–27 inch slot, plus other gear and handling requirements—however, regulations can change and vary by location. We always encourage guests to review the current FWC rules before harvesting any fish. On your trip, Captain Erik will help you understand what’s legal and responsible. For a guided Fort Myers day on the water, book with Sea n Red Charters.

Are redfish good for beginners and kids?

Yes—redfish are one of the best beginner-friendly targets in Fort Myers because they bite naturally, the techniques can be simple, and the action is exciting without being overwhelming. For kids, it’s a great fish to learn hook-setting and fighting skills because reds pull steadily and teach good rod control. Captain Erik keeps the day calm, helps with casting and baiting when needed, and focuses on fun first. If your family wants a confidence-building charter, Sea n Red Charters in Fort Myers is a great fit.

How big do redfish get?

Redfish can grow very large—big “bull reds” can reach impressive sizes and weights, while smaller and mid-size fish are more common on many inshore trips. They’re also long-lived fish, with reports of red drum living for decades under the right conditions. Size depends on habitat, age, and local conditions, and you may see anything from smaller “puppy drum” to much larger adults based on season and where they’re holding. If you want a realistic plan for your trip dates, book with Sea n Red Charters in Fort Myers and we’ll target the best opportunities.

Fishing Spots

Fishing Areas We Explore

Our fishing trips cover a wide range of productive local waters, including back bays, mangrove shorelines, open flats, and nearby coastal areas. Each location is selected based on seasonal conditions, water movement, and guest experience, allowing for a comfortable and enjoyable day on the water.