Online Casino slots Sc Redfish Slot Limitgames just like Sc Redfish Slot Limitplaying in a real casino. Offers Sc Redfish Slot Limitmany of the most popular Online Slots games. These are the same games you will find in some of the most famous casinos around the world. Finding redfish in South Carolina is pretty straightforward. The coast has a ton of inshore land perfect for reds. Daily Limit: 3; Minimum size: 15″ to 23″ Gigging of redfish from December to February is illegal. Check out South Carolina State's Saltwater Fishing Regulations and Tips for more additional reading. Redfish Season: All Year. Most anglers use the term for any redfish over the slot limit set by their state. Others don’t consider a redfish to really be a bull until it’s over 3 feet long. North Carolina anglers would likely chuckle about what some other places call bulls. This is for good reason, as they commonly catch true giants in the Tar Heel State.
- Redfish Slot Limit Screen
- Redfish Slot Limit Texas
- Redfish Slot Limits Florida
- Redfish Slot Limit Scales
- No redfish may be caught in federally protected waters. There is a limit of 3 fish per person per day. Finally, state law puts size limits on redfish, as they do with other game fish. Redfish must have a minimum total length of 15 inches and a maximum length of 23 inches to keep. This is commonly referred to as a ‘slot Redfish’ by locals.
- These bull reds fight hard and can get upwards of 40lbs. The bigger redfish must be released due to the legal slot for keeping redfish is 15-23in. If you do catch redfish in the slot limit, they are great to eat. All in all, any size redfish will put up a great fight and test you as an angler. Spotted Sea Trout.
To catch bull redfish from shore, you should concentrate your efforts when they’re actually near the beaches, bays, rivers, inlets and jetties. Prime times vary by region, but generally speaking fall is the best time for old drum. Fall is when mature drum make their move from offshore to nearshore waters for the spawn. Soak large baits on the bottom, preferably blue crab, bunker, or mullet, and hold on tight.
Let’s get into the details below.
- What Is A Bull Redfish
- When To Catch Them
- Where To Find Them
- Best Baits
- Best Rigs
- Gear To Use
- Landing Bull Reds
What Is A “Bull” Redfish?
(Sciaenops ocellatus)
The term “Bull Red” is somewhat arbitrary. It refers to mature red drum, of either sex, that have attained a certain large size.
The particular size that a red has to get to, before someone calls it a bull, is really just a matter of opinion, and will vary by region. Most anglers use the term for any redfish over the slot limit set by their state. Others don’t consider a redfish to really be a bull until it’s over 3 feet long.
North Carolina anglers would likely chuckle about what some other places call bulls. This is for good reason, as they commonly catch true giants in the Tar Heel State.
The particular size that a red has to get to, before someone calls it a bull, is really just a matter of opinion, and will vary by region. Most anglers use the term for any redfish over the slot limit set by their state. Others don’t consider a redfish to really be a bull until it’s over 3 feet long.
North Carolina anglers would likely chuckle about what some other places call bulls. This is for good reason, as they commonly catch true giants in the Tar Heel State.
The current record is over 94lbs caught in Hatteras, North Carolina in 1984.
For the sake of discussion, we’re referring to redfish that have reached sexual maturity, and are above the slot limit set forth by each state (see chart below). These fish are at least 3 years old, and exhibit much different behavior than their younger counterparts. Therefore, I think it’s fair to declare these fish as “bulls”, as they are in fact the breeders.
Why Is There A Slot Limit On Redfish?
The purpose of the upper slot size is to protect these larger breeder sized fish from over harvest.
Male and female redfish mature at different ages, but more or less they begin to spawn at around 26″ in length. That is why the upper slot is typically somewhere around that 26″ mark.
Once redfish grow to approximately 26″ (upper slot), they will transition from inshore living to offshore living. These old drum are the brutes that we want to pursue.
Male and female redfish mature at different ages, but more or less they begin to spawn at around 26″ in length. That is why the upper slot is typically somewhere around that 26″ mark.
Once redfish grow to approximately 26″ (upper slot), they will transition from inshore living to offshore living. These old drum are the brutes that we want to pursue.
Large bull redfish are often between 20 and 30 years old, and are known to even live up to 56 years old, and possibly older.
Average Redfish Growth Rates
As shown in the chart below, the weight of mature redfish typically works out to be approximately 1 pound per inch. So, a 50″ redfish is going to be somewhere around 50 pounds. With this knowledge, there isn’t much of a need to weigh these giants. Telling someone you caught a 50″ bull should suffice for bragging rights.
AGE | INCHES |
---|---|
1 | 12 |
2 | 19 |
3 | 24 |
4 | 27 |
5 | 30 |
6 | 32 |
7 | 34 |
8 | 35 |
9 | 36 |
10 | 37 |
Females Are Bigger Than Males
Seems kind of strange that you would call females “bulls” doesn’t it? But that’s indeed the case more often than not. Although males mature more quickly, and can attain a large size, they don’t top out as big as females do.
State Redfish Records
Below are the current state records for all states where redfish are commonly pursued. As you can see, most of the largest redfish typically come from the Atlantic coast, from South Carolina to Virginia.
STATE | RECORD | SLOT |
---|---|---|
Texas | 39.13 lbs. | 20-28' |
Louisiana | 61 lbs. | 16-27' |
Mississippi | 52 lbs. 4.2 oz. | 18-30' |
Alabama | 45 lbs. 9 oz. | 16-26' |
Florida | 60.75 lbs. | 18-27' |
Georgia | 47 lbs. 7 oz. | 14-23' |
South Carolina | 75 lbs. | 15-23' |
North Carolina | 94 lbs. 2 oz. | 18-27' |
Virginia | 85 lbs. 4 oz. | 18-26' |
Delaware | 75 lbs. | 20-27' |
New Jersey | 55 lbs. | 18-27' |
When To Catch Bull Reds
The best time to pursue old drum is during the annual bull red run, the timing of which will depend on your area.
What Is The Bull Redfish Run?
(The Spawn)
The “run” simply refers to the movement of mature redfish, as it relates to their annual spawn.
In most of the country, mature reds spend the majority of their lives offshore. However, during the spawn they temporarily relocate to nearshore waters, particularly around rivers, passes, bays and inlets. This annual bull red run is when many old drum are within reach of shore fishermen.
In most of the country, mature reds spend the majority of their lives offshore. However, during the spawn they temporarily relocate to nearshore waters, particularly around rivers, passes, bays and inlets. This annual bull red run is when many old drum are within reach of shore fishermen.
While it’s true that the annual incoming run of offshore red drum provides us access to the largest redfish out there, that doesn’t tell the whole story. There is yet another separate wave of younger “bulls” that provide us with even more opportunity at big fish.
At around age 3 or 4, most redfish quickly transition from an inshore and nearshore species to becoming an offshore species. This younger wave of newly-matured reds migrate out of inshore waters for the first time in the fall. They meet up with schools of older drum that have made their way in from offshore.
At around age 3 or 4, most redfish quickly transition from an inshore and nearshore species to becoming an offshore species. This younger wave of newly-matured reds migrate out of inshore waters for the first time in the fall. They meet up with schools of older drum that have made their way in from offshore.
Unlike most of the country, there is a notable exception, in Florida, where bulls don’t actually migrate out to the open ocean after the spawn. That special location is the Indian River and Mosquito Lagoon. The bull reds here live out their entire lives within these waters.
When their first spawn is over, newly matured “bulls” will move offshore with the rest of the schools to begin their offshore stage of life. This offshore move happens when the water temps begin to drop in the wintertime.
It should be noted that some fish beyond age 3 to 4 will choose to remain part of the local population for a while longer. That’s why catching a fairly large redfish is always a possibility in some regions, no matter the time of year.
It should be noted that some fish beyond age 3 to 4 will choose to remain part of the local population for a while longer. That’s why catching a fairly large redfish is always a possibility in some regions, no matter the time of year.
In most areas, redfish lay their eggs along the beaches. Tidal currents carry those eggs through the passes and inlets into bays and other backwaters. Here the young are better able to survive.
Peak Times For Targeting Bull Redfish
Below are what I view to be the peak “run” times for most years on average. This can vary year, and fishing can still be good on either side of the ranges. So, use this only as a loose guide on what time of year is best in your region.
The preferred water temps are the low to mid 60’s. That will be the driving factor of when bulls make their move to nearshore, and then back offshore.
The preferred water temps are the low to mid 60’s. That will be the driving factor of when bulls make their move to nearshore, and then back offshore.
Best Times By State
- Texas
- September – October
- Some areas are even good through winter
- Louisiana
- Late August – September, but pretty much all year is good
- Mississippi
- September – November
- Alabama
- October – November
- Florida
- Northeast Florida – August – October
- Daytona Beach – October – December
- Florida Panhandle – October – December
- Georgia
- September – November
- South Carolina
- October – November
- North Carolina
- Outer Banks – October – November, March – April
- Pamlico Sound – August – September
- Virginia
- May – September
Where To Catch Bull Reds From Land
Redfish range from Texas, around Florida, and up the Atlantic coast to New Jersey, and beyond. So, they are a very widespread and popular species as you can see.
Once you have an idea of when to focus your efforts, you’ll then have to determine where to find spawning redfish. Although options are limited, if you don’t have a boat, that doesn’t stop you from hitting some of the very best areas.
3 things come together during the annual bull red run that give shore fishermen, in particular, a great chance to hook up with one. Redfish are nearshore, they are on the move, and they are hungry. If you soak a good bait in a prime area during a prime time, you’re sure to catch them.
So, what are the prime areas we should target during the run? Well, bull reds typically use ledges, contours, or shorelines as underwater highways as they make their moves during the spawn. Fortunately, those are all features that we can target as shore fishermen. Below are the best places where you can intercept spawning bulls from land.
Once you have an idea of when to focus your efforts, you’ll then have to determine where to find spawning redfish. Although options are limited, if you don’t have a boat, that doesn’t stop you from hitting some of the very best areas.
3 things come together during the annual bull red run that give shore fishermen, in particular, a great chance to hook up with one. Redfish are nearshore, they are on the move, and they are hungry. If you soak a good bait in a prime area during a prime time, you’re sure to catch them.
So, what are the prime areas we should target during the run? Well, bull reds typically use ledges, contours, or shorelines as underwater highways as they make their moves during the spawn. Fortunately, those are all features that we can target as shore fishermen. Below are the best places where you can intercept spawning bulls from land.
Best Locations For Land Based Anglers
- Beaches
- Passes
- Bays
- Jetties
- Piers
- River Mouths
As land based anglers, we have access to some of the most productive places where the 2 groups of large reds mingle in the fall. Beaches, passes, bays, jetties, river banks, and piers are all extremely effective areas where we can intercept hefty redfish.
Most consistent successes will be had either in the passes, or on beaches closest to the passes. That’s certainly not to say you can’t hook into them elsewhere.
Anywhere you can find deeper water will typically be better. So, when fishing from the beaches, it’s best if you cast your bait into the 2nd trough from the beach, if not further.
Most consistent successes will be had either in the passes, or on beaches closest to the passes. That’s certainly not to say you can’t hook into them elsewhere.
Anywhere you can find deeper water will typically be better. So, when fishing from the beaches, it’s best if you cast your bait into the 2nd trough from the beach, if not further.
Fishing at night seems to increase your chances of catching bulls. However, your chances of hooking sharks increases as well. So, it’s a tradeoff. You’ll have to deal with more sharks if you fish at night.
Baits for Old Drum
Although they can occasionally be found feeding anywhere in the water column, fishing for bull reds is primarily a bottom fishing game. Because redfish rely heavily on their sense of smell when feeding, you don’t have to necessarily put the bait right in their face.
Large redfish will follow a scent trail to it’s source. Therefore, throwing out a large desirable bait, and either letting it sit still, or slowly drift along the bottom, is the most common tactic.
Bull reds are not really too picky when it comes to bait, but the best 3 are blue crab, mullet and bunker. Other solid options are ladyfish, pinfish, spots, croaker, whiting and sand trout.
Blue crabs can be fished whole, or they can be cut in half. The other fishy options are most often cut up into chunks 2 – 4″ long. However, the right sized fish can be used as live bait as well, if it’s not too big. It’s worth pointing out that, for whatever reason, mullet heads are an amazing bull red bait.
No matter what bait you choose, it needs to be fresh. It’s best if you keep it alive until right before putting it on the hook. If that isn’t possible, keep it on ice until you are ready to use it. While frozen baits can work, you should always strive to avoid them if you have other options.
For more info on baits, check out my article on The Best Baits For Bull Reds.
Large redfish will follow a scent trail to it’s source. Therefore, throwing out a large desirable bait, and either letting it sit still, or slowly drift along the bottom, is the most common tactic.
Bull reds are not really too picky when it comes to bait, but the best 3 are blue crab, mullet and bunker. Other solid options are ladyfish, pinfish, spots, croaker, whiting and sand trout.
Blue crabs can be fished whole, or they can be cut in half. The other fishy options are most often cut up into chunks 2 – 4″ long. However, the right sized fish can be used as live bait as well, if it’s not too big. It’s worth pointing out that, for whatever reason, mullet heads are an amazing bull red bait.
No matter what bait you choose, it needs to be fresh. It’s best if you keep it alive until right before putting it on the hook. If that isn’t possible, keep it on ice until you are ready to use it. While frozen baits can work, you should always strive to avoid them if you have other options.
For more info on baits, check out my article on The Best Baits For Bull Reds.
Rigs For Bull Reds
For land based drum fishing, an ideal bull red rig will generally consist of a strong snelled 4/0 – 12/0 circle hook, a heavy mono leader, and a stationary style of sinker (pyramid, tongue, Sputnik). This could be a fish finder rig, a cannonball rig, a knocker rig, an old drum rig, or any number of variations on those designs.
Main Line
Your main line should be 30-50 lb. braid or 20-30 lb.monofilament. If you go with a lighter weight monofilament, such as 20 lb. mono, you’ll potentially need to use a shock leader between your main line and your rig. That’s because a heavy sinker combined with a piece of heavy bait can break light line during the cast.
Hooks
The main things with hook selection is that it needs to be strong, and the hook size should somewhat match your bait size. Your hook should not be over-choked by the bait. Make sure you have plenty of hook point exposed.
Sinkers
Sinker size is dictated by the amount of current you have to deal with, and how far you need to cast. Use the lightest weight you can get away with and still hold bottom. Some anglers use as much as 10 oz. or more when drum fishing.
Leader Material
The further you need to cast, the shorter you should probably make your leader. The leader, pictured above, could be shortened to as little as 1″ and still remain effective for drum fishing.
For more detailed information on good bull red rigs, check out my write up on that here – The Best Rigs For Bull Reds.
Best Reels For Bull Redfish
Larger bull reds are the vital breeder fish, so you shouldn’t drag the fight out beyond a reasonable time. Doing so really tires the fish out, and can drastically increase mortality rate. Therefore, it’s best to leave the really lightweight gear at home.
The minimum sized reel you should probably use is a 4500 class reel, like the Spinfisher V pictured above. I prefer reels 6000 and up for land based old drum fishing.
Spool your reel up with at least 250 yards of 30-50 lb. braid or 20-30 lb mono. With this kind of setup, you can put some pressure on the fish, to get it in quickly.
If you’re fishing an area near structure, such as rocks or bridge pilings, you’ll definitely want to lean towards a heavier setup.
The minimum sized reel you should probably use is a 4500 class reel, like the Spinfisher V pictured above. I prefer reels 6000 and up for land based old drum fishing.
Spool your reel up with at least 250 yards of 30-50 lb. braid or 20-30 lb mono. With this kind of setup, you can put some pressure on the fish, to get it in quickly.
If you’re fishing an area near structure, such as rocks or bridge pilings, you’ll definitely want to lean towards a heavier setup.
Best Rods For Bull Redfish
Rod Strength
When fishing from shore, you’ll want a rod with some backbone, for 2 reasons. Firstly, you’ll want to be able to put adequate pressure on a fish to reduce the fight time, which is much better for them. Additionally, because you’ll sometimes be casting very heavy weights (8 oz.) and large baits, you’ll need a strong rod capable of handling such a payload. I prefer Medium-Heavy, Heavy, or Extra-Heavy rods for shore fishing.
Depending on where you’re fishing, you may have to get a bait out very far and keep it down in heavy current. To do so requires a heavy sinker, which cannot be effectively casted using short lightweight rods.
Hatteras, North Carolina comes to mind. The proper tool for the job, in locations such as the “The Point” at Hatteras, is an 8nbait setup, which I discuss in detail here – What Are 8nBait Rods.
Depending on where you’re fishing, you may have to get a bait out very far and keep it down in heavy current. To do so requires a heavy sinker, which cannot be effectively casted using short lightweight rods.
Hatteras, North Carolina comes to mind. The proper tool for the job, in locations such as the “The Point” at Hatteras, is an 8nbait setup, which I discuss in detail here – What Are 8nBait Rods.
Rod Length
Depending on where you’ll be fishing will have some impact on how long a rod to use. A 7 foot medium-heavy rod works fine if you don’t have to cast far. However, when fishing from the beach, you’ll usually want to launch a heavy payload a great distance. In those cases, I like a 9-12 foot rod.
For some additional guidance on how to choose a surf rod, you can check out my article about that here – 9 Criteria To Consider When Choosing A Surf Rod.
For some additional guidance on how to choose a surf rod, you can check out my article about that here – 9 Criteria To Consider When Choosing A Surf Rod.
Landing Bull Reds
When fishing for bull reds, make sure you haven’t locked your drag all the way down. There will be a powerful initial run, and you don’t want the line to break. Allow them to have that initial surge before reeling. You shouldn’t try to reel against a screaming drag.
You can expect several strong surges from a bull red before being able to fully reel them in.
When landing a fish on the beach, use the incoming waves to help surf your bull onto the sand. If you try to horse it through the shallows, you’ll run the risk of popping your line.
You can expect several strong surges from a bull red before being able to fully reel them in.
When landing a fish on the beach, use the incoming waves to help surf your bull onto the sand. If you try to horse it through the shallows, you’ll run the risk of popping your line.
Redfish Slot Limit Screen
Holding A Bull Red
When handling really large redfish, you should never hold it vertically. Instead, cradle it horizontally to prevent damage to the jaw, and to reduce the internal stresses of the organs. Take your photos quickly, and return the fish to the water promptly.
Reviving A Tired Redfish
If you do tire a fish completely out, it’s critical that you revive it before the release. Hold the tail and push it back and forth in the water so the gills receive fresh oxygen. It will take longer to revive a fish in warmer water than in cooler water. Once the fish kicks his tail a time or 2 in your hand, he is ready to go back.
Regulations
Redfish Slot Limit Texas
Red drum are very plentiful, thanks mostly in part to the stringent regulations placed on them. All states of the Gulf and along the Atlantic have a slot limit in effect. Most states either don’t allow you to keep an over slot fish, or they only let you keep 1.
Regardless of the regulations, most anglers release mature reds, as they are the breeders that ensure a healthy population. The only exception for me personally would be a deeply hooked fish that I felt like wouldn’t survive anyway.
Regardless of the regulations, most anglers release mature reds, as they are the breeders that ensure a healthy population. The only exception for me personally would be a deeply hooked fish that I felt like wouldn’t survive anyway.
Are Bull Reds Good To Eat?
Redfish Slot Limits Florida
In short, bull reds are not a great fish to keep for the dinner table. Old drum have a more course and less tasty flesh than their younger counterparts, not to mention they are a pain to clean. Most anglers that have kept a bull red, regret ever taking them home.
Conclusion
If you’re confined to land, there isn’t a much more accessible, larger, or harder fighting fish than a bull red. With the knowledge above, you can successfully target these beautiful brutes from shore.
Cheers,
Augustus Clay
Augustus Clay
About 20 million people visit Myrtle Beach, South Carolina every year – and there’s a very good reason. This top tourist vacation destination has something for everyone: southern hospitality, 60 miles of beaches, and tons of attractions for the whole family. Golfing, swimming, boating, shopping, and fishing are just a few options to fill your days while visiting Myrtle Beach.
One eye-catching attraction is the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, a 1.2 mile walkway from Pier 14 at 14th Avenue North to the 2nd Avenue Pier at 2nd Avenue North. The boardwalk runs parallel along the coast, and since 2010 has welcomed locals and visitors alike. On the boardwalk you’ll find entertainment such as the Skywheel and family attractions, as well as shops and restaurants. There are also plenty of hotels and lodging accommodations along the boardwalk.
Redfish Slot Limit Scales
As mentioned, the boardwalk starts and ends at two different fishing piers: Pier 14 and 2nd Avenue Pier. Actually, there are many fishing piers in the Myrtle Beach area, these are just two options for your group. For those visiting the area without a boat, pier fishing is a really good way to get in on the action. Just bring your gear, net, seat, and cooler and stay a few hours, fishing the inshore waters. Depending on the season, you’ll be able to catch redfish, spotted seatrout, pompano, and more. These piers are just one way for fishermen and women to get a glimpse of the Myrtle Beach fishing scene.
Anglers visiting Myrtle Beach will also have the option to fish the Intracoastal Waterway or the Atlantic Ocean. Both offer fantastic fishing grounds; it just depends what you’re more comfortable with or want to experience. Local Myrtle Beach fishing charters can guide your excursion and customize the trip of a lifetime.
Myrtle Beach Fishing
The Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) is located on the west side of the city, threading its way from the North Carolina state line south to the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge. Myrtle Beach fishing guides will fish the ICW for a variety of freshwater and saltwater species. These may include largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, redfish, black drum, and flounder to name a few.
Fly fishing the Intracoastal is very common among Myrtle Beach anglers. You can stand on the banks of the ICW and cast your fly into the current or near the shore, depending on what you’re looking to catch. Make sure you have a long-handled net to help bring your catch to you. Each species has different slot and bag limit regulations, your Myrtle Beach fishing guide will know what you can keep and what to release.
Within just a few miles of the Myrtle Beach coast, anglers can find even more variety. Whether you’re fishing the inshore bays and estuaries, or nearshore Atlantic Ocean, you’re sure to have a great day of bending the rods.
Redfish is just one favorite among Myrtle Beach fishermen and women. These bronze or tan colored fish have a distinct black dot (or dots) near the tail. Many anglers will sight fish for redfish in shallow waters, keeping an eye on the top water for the backs and tails of the redfish to appear. Offer a large shrimp or crab on the hook, add a popping cork as a topwater lure, and you’re sure to see some action. The larger the cut or live bait, the larger the redfish you’ll find at the end of the line.
Another popular fish found in the area is black sea bass, a blue-black species that goes by many names, including blackfish, rock bass, black bass, and tallywag. They are found near reefs and artificial structures, and enjoy feeding on live or cut squid or shrimp. Anglers can also try jigging for black sea bass, but you’ll want good arm strength for this technique, which basically pulls the rod up and down through the water.
Nearshore Myrtle Beach charters stay within 2 miles of the coast and can see mackerel, cobia, and shark to name just a few species. Cobia is a strange looking species, with a dense head and slick black coloring. Once hooked, let the cobia run the line and wear themselves out. If you boat them too early, they have a habit of thrashing on the boat and causing destruction. Cobia can be found from Myrtle Beach to Pawleys Island, just a short drive away.
Heading farther out into the Atlantic Ocean will reap rewards such as king mackerel, mahi mahi, marlin, and tuna. Your Myrtle Beach charter captain will first ask what you’re looking to catch, and then create the perfect trip that can accommodate your needs, season depending. You won’t need any experience when fishing offshore, your captain and first mate will take care of everything. Trips can last from six hours to 24-hours, depending on the level of adventure your group is ready for/can handle!
Reserve A Myrtle Beach Fishing Trip
Whether you’re fishing from a pier, the Intracoastal, or the Atlantic Ocean, your family will have the trip of a lifetime. There’s simply nothing quite like a Myrtle Beach fishing excursion. Start your adventure today and select a local guide that can customize the trip for your crew!
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