When fishing for red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus), there are a number of supplies needed. The right tackle and bait for red drum are dependent on location, season, weather and tidal conditions, and size of the targeted fish.
Rod and Reel Setup for Red Drum
Sturdy, reliable rods and reels are needed for red drum fishing. Even when chasing smaller fish, it is important to have at least a medium power rod, and a reel adapted to saltwater use, lined with at least 8 lb. test. Heavier line and a tougher tackle may be necessary even for small fish in backwater areas, as anglers often have to muscle these fish back out of grass, and away from oyster beds that are sure to cut the line. When fishing for large drum, baitcasting rods and reels may be used from boats, or heavy spinning gear, although stout surf rods are necessary for beach anglers. Heavier line (perhaps in the 20 lb. test range) is certainly recommended for redfish over 30 lbs.
Artificial Bait for Red Drum
Redfish will hit a variety of lures, most of which other inshore fish will also take. One foolproof artificial bait for these fish is the spoon. Large, gold-colored spoons work wonders on red drum. These lures must be reeled constantly and at a very steady pace, making them wobble and flash, attracting drum that would naturally pursue any nearby baitfish. A Hopkin's stainless steel weedless spoon is a fine lure for redfish, and it is best in the larger sizes. Large jigs also work for red drum, particularly in deep water. As mullet, other baitfish, squid, shrimp, and crab make up the major parts of the diet of redfish, soft plastic imitations, and poppers are also great baits for red drum. When the tide is low, and the water is calm, smaller lures should be cast to drum, as larger ones may frighten the fish.
Natural Bait for Red Drum
For smaller fish, whether they are located in backwater areas or in the surf, cut bait is a perfect redfish attractant. Cut squid, shrimp, and fish all work for these fish when placed on bottom rigs or drum rigs, which have a single hook and a weight. Larger chunks of cut mullet and menhaden work for the larger drum that may be found in the ocean. Red drum will also take live bait, such as pinfish, spot, and mullet, although whole blue crabs are perhaps the best baits to use in inshore and backwater locations.
Rigs and Basic Tackle for Red Drum
Standard bottom rigs may be used when throwing bait into the surf. Weight of at least one ounce should be be attached to the rig to keep the bait in place on the bottom, and heavier hooks should be used for drum than are required for other fish, such as croaker and flounder. More weight will be necessary in rough waters. A drum rig, which is composed of a section of leader (heavy line), a thick, sturdy hook, such as a 4/0 octopus or circle hook, and a heavy weight should be used for very large fish in the ocean, although the same fish will take large lures. These rigs work well when anchoring a boat and bait fishing. As drum have small, sandpaper-like teeth, much like those of largemouth bass, it will be necessary to inspect the line above the hook after fish are caught, as the rough mouths of these fish can wear on the line.
Red drum are one of the most sought-after inshore fish available in the Eastern and Southern United States. They are also a popular target for fly fishermen. But before heading out to chase these fish, it is important to know what tackle and bait are needed for red drum fishing.
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