Beyond the Cast

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Beyond the Cast: Saltwater Fly Fishing for Redfish and Speckled Trout in Galveston West Bay

Introduction

Saltwater fly fishing in Galveston West Bay is one of the most exciting and rewarding ways to target inshore species like redfish and speckled trout. With spring bringing warmer water temperatures and shifting feeding patterns, now is the perfect time to grab your fly rod and explore the marshes, grass flats, and channels of the Texas coast.

Whether you’re a seasoned fly angler or just getting started with saltwater fly fishing in Galveston, this guide covers everything you need to know—from essential gear and fly patterns to casting techniques and current fishing conditions.

Essential Gear for Saltwater Fly Fishing in Galveston

Fly Rod

A 9-foot, 8-weight fly rod is ideal for targeting redfish and speckled trout. It offers the power to handle wind and cast larger flies while maintaining the finesse needed for accurate presentations. For windy days or larger fish, consider a 9- or 10-weight rod.

Fly Reel

Choose a saltwater fly reel with a sealed drag system and corrosion-resistant materials like anodized aluminum. Smooth drag is essential when dealing with the strong, fast runs of redfish or trout hooked in moving water.

Fly Line

A weight-forward floating line is the go-to for shallow flats fly fishing. For deeper channels or windier conditions, an intermediate sinking line will help get your fly in the strike zone.

Leader and Tippet

Seaguar Red Label Fluorocarbon in 15 lb test is my preferred choice for leader and tippet material. It’s abrasion-resistant and nearly invisible underwater—key for targeting spooky fish in clear coastal waters.

Best Saltwater Fly Patterns for Redfish and Speckled Trout

Top Redfish Flies

• Clouser Minnow (Chartreuse/White) – A must-have fly pattern that imitates baitfish.

• Redfish Crack Fly – Perfect for tailing reds in shallow marshes.

• Merkin Crab – A great choice for redfish feeding around oyster beds and muddy bottoms.

• Deceiver (Redfish Colors) – Mimics struggling baitfish, excellent for murky water.

• Puglisi Baitfish Fly – Realistic baitfish profile for sight-casting.

Top Speckled Trout Flies

• Lefty’s Deceiver (Chartreuse/White) – Proven pattern for trout over grass flats.

• Sea Habit – Effective around structure and drop-offs.

• Whistler Fly (Pink & White) – Perfect for topwater action in warmer months.

• Schminnow – Imitates shrimp and small baitfish.

• Killer Baitfish – Bright colors trigger strikes during low light or murky water.

Why These Patterns Work

Each fly pattern is designed to mimic key prey like shrimp, crabs, or baitfish—staples in the diet of redfish and speckled trout. Matching the hatch with realistic movement and size will drastically improve your success rate when fly fishing the Texas coast.

Saltwater Fly Casting Techniques

Double Haul Cast

Mastering the double haul will improve your casting distance and control, especially in windy coastal conditions. Practice it on dry land before hitting the flats.

Sight-Casting

Spotting and casting to visible fish is one of the most thrilling aspects of saltwater fly fishing. Aim ahead of cruising redfish or trout to give your fly a natural presentation.

A tailing redfish feeds in the skinny water of Galveston’s flats—prime conditions for sight-casting with a fly rod

Strip Set

Instead of lifting the rod, strip-set by pulling the line tight with your non-casting hand. This sets the hook directly into the fish’s mouth without pulling the fly out.

Best Places to Fly Fish for Redfish & Speckled Trout in Galveston

Redfish Hotspots

• Shallow marsh drains on an incoming tide

• Mud flats near shell and grass beds

• Potholes along leeward shorelines

Speckled Trout Zones

• Grass flats in 3–5 feet of water

• Shell drop-offs near marsh edges

• Deeper structure during outgoing tides

Fly Fishing Retrieve Techniques

• Redfish: Use slow strips with long pauses. If a fish follows but hesitates, stop the fly and twitch gently to trigger a bite.

This redfish crushed an imitation crab fly in the marshy flats of Galveston West Bay—one of the most effective patterns for targeting reds in shallow water

• Speckled Trout: A consistent strip with occasional pauses mimics injured baitfish—perfect for aggressive trout.

Recent Fly Fishing Report – Galveston West Bay

Weather & Water Conditions

• Air Temps: Mild spring temperatures

• Water Temps: Mid-60s

• Wind: SE at 5–10 mph

• Water Clarity: Clear in protected marshes; stained on windward flats

• Tide: Incoming morning, outgoing evening

What’s Working Right Now:

• Redfish: Redfish Crack Fly (tan/gold), Kwan Fly, EP Shrimp

• Speckled Trout: Clouser Minnow, Gurgler Fly, Seaducer

Last week’s outgoing tides pushed bait into channels where redfish staged along marsh edges. The Clouser Minnow was deadly in 3–5 feet over grass beds, while the EP Shrimp shined for reds tailing over soft mud bottoms.

Final Thoughts: Fly Fishing the Texas Coast in Spring

Speckled trout landed on the fly in Galveston West Bay—sighted in shallow water and fooled with a chartreuse Clouser Minnow

Fly fishing for redfish and speckled trout in Galveston West Bay is heating up with spring’s arrival. With improving conditions, longer days, and active fish, now is a great time to target Texas inshore species on the fly.

If you’re planning a trip this week, focus on early mornings and late afternoons. Look for clean water near current, match your fly to the forage, and practice quiet, accurate presentations.

Tight lines!

May 21, 2025
Kayak Fishing for Redfish & Speckled Trout Tips & Tactics

Kayak fishing brings you closer to the water, offering an unmatched level of stealth and accessibility when targeting inshore species like redfish and speckled trout. Gliding through the marsh, feeling the rhythm of the tides, and watching a redfish tail in the shallows—these moments define why so many anglers choose kayaks for their fishing adventures. But success in a kayak isn’t just about casting in the right spot. Proper preparation, technique, and safety play just as big a role as choosing the right lure.

In this guide, we’ll cover essential gear, fishing techniques, and key safety considerations to ensure your time on the water is both productive and enjoyable.

Kayak Fishing: Why It’s Perfect for Redfish & Speckled Trout

Fishing from a kayak allows you to reach areas boats can’t, where pressured fish find refuge in the shallows. These quieter waters are often rich with bait, making them prime feeding grounds. Redfish thrive in skinny water, pushing into grass flats to hunt for shrimp and crabs, while speckled trout hold near oyster beds, waiting to ambush baitfish. The kayak’s silent approach gives you a major advantage in these scenarios, allowing you to get close without spooking fish.

But with the rewards of kayak fishing come unique challenges. Unlike fishing from a boat, you need to account for factors like stability, positioning, and the ever-changing coastal environment. That’s why having the right gear and knowledge is essential.

Essential Kayak Gear for Saltwater Fishing

The Right Kayak

A stable sit-on-top fishing kayak is ideal for inshore waters. Look for a model with:

• Good Stability – Wider kayaks allow you to stand and sight fish.

• Adequate Storage – You’ll need space for tackle, rods, and safety gear.

• Pedal or Paddle Drive – Pedal kayaks keep your hands free, but a quality paddle is crucial.

Must-Have Accessories

• Push Pole – A lightweight push pole is invaluable for silently maneuvering through shallow water without disturbing fish.

• Anchor System – A stake-out pole works best for shallow flats, while a small anchor or drag chain helps in deeper water or current.

• Rod Holders & Tackle Crate – Organizing your gear prevents clutter and makes for a smoother fishing experience.

• Dry Bag & Waterproof Case – Keep your phone, keys, and important items dry and secure.

Safety Gear

• PFD (Personal Flotation Device) – Always wear a PFD, no exceptions. A fishing-specific PFD has extra pockets for storing essentials.

• Whistle & Light – Coast Guard regulations require a whistle and a light for low-light conditions.

• First-Aid Kit – Accidents happen. Be prepared for hooks, cuts, or stings.

• Bilge Pump or Sponge – For draining excess water from your kayak.

Kayak Positioning & Anchoring Correctly

Staying in the right position while fishing is crucial. The wind, tide, and current all play a role in where your kayak drifts, so knowing how to control your positioning keeps you on fish longer.

• Stake-Out Pole – For shallow waters, a stake-out pole allows you to quietly anchor without disturbing the bottom.

• Drift Anchors – A drift sock slows your kayak’s movement when fishing open flats or channels in windy conditions.

• Anchoring with a Rope System – If using a traditional anchor, attach it to an anchor trolley system to adjust your positioning without changing your cast direction.

A key tip: Always place your anchor off the bow or stern to prevent your kayak from tipping sideways in strong currents.

Weather Monitoring & Tidal Awareness

The conditions on the water can change quickly, and being prepared can make the difference between a great trip and a dangerous situation.

• Check the Weather Forecast – Wind speeds over 15 mph make kayaking challenging. Storms can develop quickly, so always check the radar before heading out.

• Know the Tide Charts – Both redfish and speckled trout are heavily influenced by tides. An incoming tide often brings fish into shallow feeding zones, while an outgoing tide funnels bait into deeper water, creating ambush points.

• Watch for Lightning – If you hear thunder, it’s time to head in. Open water is one of the worst places to be during a storm.

Finding Redfish & Speckled Trout from a Kayak

Redfish Hotspots:

• Shallow Grass Flats & Marshes – Redfish love feeding on crabs and shrimp in the grass. Look for tailing fish or nervous bait.

• Tidal Drains & Creek Mouths – As the tide moves, redfish wait in deeper cuts for bait to be pulled into their strike zone.

• Shorelines with Structure – Wind-blown shorelines, oyster bars, and submerged grass beds all hold redfish.

Speckled Trout Hotspots:

• Oyster Reefs & Drop-Offs – Trout use reefs as feeding grounds, especially near deeper water.

• Sand and Grass Pockets – Speckled trout roam these areas, ambushing baitfish.

• Current Edges & Channels – Trout hold near points where baitfish get swept past them.

Best Lures for Kayak Fishing

For Redfish:

• Paddle Tail Soft Plastics – JVS Custom Baits Rip Rap in Copper Penny and H&H/DOA Paddle Tails are great for covering water.

• Gold Spoon – A classic lure for redfish, especially in stained water.

• Topwater Lures – Early mornings or calm days call for walking baits like the Super Spook Jr.

For Speckled Trout:

• Soft Plastics on a Jig Head – The JVS Speed Shrimp in White and Gold is a deadly choice.

• Topwater Lures – Trout are aggressive surface feeders, and the Heddon One Knocker Spook can trigger explosive strikes.

• Suspending Twitch Baits – The MirrOlure 52MR is excellent for cooler months when trout feed deeper.

Kayak Fishing Strategies for Success

Stealth & Approach

Kayaks give you a natural advantage in stealth, but even the smallest noise can spook fish in shallow water.

• Paddle quietly – Use soft, controlled strokes or a push pole to move.

• Avoid sudden movements – Even shifting your weight too fast can send out unnatural ripples.

• Cast ahead of your target – Let the fish come to your lure instead of landing it right on their head.

Using the Wind & Current to Your Advantage

• Drift fishing – Let the wind and current carry you naturally along a shoreline or over a reef while casting.

• Positioning – Set up so you’re casting with the wind for longer, more accurate presentations.

Final Thoughts

Kayak fishing for redfish and speckled trout is one of the most rewarding ways to experience inshore fishing. With the right preparation, awareness of conditions, and strategic approach, you’ll put more fish in the kayak while staying safe on the water.

Stay Connected with Beyond the Cast

Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this post and want more fishing tips, trip reports, and on-the-water action, be sure to follow along.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for in-depth videos, gear breakdowns, and on-the-water adventures. Stay up to date by following us on Facebook, where we share fishing reports, trip updates, and connect with fellow anglers.

Join the conversation, share your catches, and let’s keep exploring the water together.

Tight lines, and see you Beyond the Cast!

What’s your top kayak fishing tip? Drop a comment below!

April 27, 2025
Kayak Fishing Dickinson Bayou

Dickinson Bayou is an underrated gem for Texas anglers, offering a rare mix of inshore and freshwater fishing opportunities. This winding waterway, stretching between Houston and Galveston, features both brackish and freshwater environments, making it one of the few places where you can catch redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and largemouth bass—all in the same trip. With easy kayak access, plenty of structure, and year-round fishing opportunities, it’s a must-visit for anglers looking to mix things up.

Sunrise on Dickinson Bayou

In this Beyond the Cast blog, we’ll break down the best launch points, seasonal patterns, and proven techniques for targeting both inshore and freshwater species in Dickinson Bayou.

Why Kayak Fish Dickinson Bayou?

Unlike open water areas like West Bay or Christmas Bay, Dickinson Bayou offers a controlled, protected environment with minimal wind and boat traffic, making it ideal for kayak anglers. The bayou features oyster beds, submerged structure, and marsh drains that hold inshore predators, while its upper sections provide excellent largemouth bass fishing around laydowns and submerged timber.

The brackish water mix creates a unique opportunity where you can catch bass and redfish in the same stretch of water, depending on the salinity levels.

Best Kayak Launch Points

1. Paul Hopkins Park – A great starting point for bass fishing in the upper bayou. This area has more freshwater influence, submerged timber, and slower-moving water where largemouth bass thrive.

2. Ray Holbrook Park – Provides access to both freshwater and brackish areas, making it a great spot to target multiple species in one trip.

3. Dickinson Bayou Boat Ramp (Highway 146) – A prime launch for inshore species like speckled trout, redfish, and flounder, as the bayou transitions to saltier water.

Target Species and Seasonal Patterns

Inshore Species (Redfish, Trout, Flounder)

Redfish

Speckled Trout

Flounder

• Redfish: Present year-round, redfish move between the shallow marsh edges and deeper bends of the bayou. Look for them near oyster beds or ambushing bait near structure.

• Speckled Trout: More common in the lower bayou where salinity is higher. They hold in deeper holes during winter and move toward bait schools in summer.

• Flounder: A spring and fall favorite, flounder stack up near drains and along drop-offs.

Largemouth Bass

• Spring & Summer: Bass are highly active, staging near submerged trees, grass lines, and deeper pockets along the bank. Topwater frogs and spinnerbaits shine in the warmer months.

• Fall & Winter: Bass move deeper into holes and near structure, where slow-moving soft plastics and crankbaits are the go-to options.

Best Lures for Dickinson Bayou

Inshore Lures:

• H&H Paddle Tails and DOA Paddle Tails – Excellent for covering water, especially rigged on a light jighead and bounced off the bottom.

• JVS Custom Baits 3.2 Rip Rap in Cinnamon Gold – This lure mimics baitfish well in the stained waters of the bayou.

• JVS Speed Shrimp in White and Gold – Great for targeting speckled trout and redfish near deeper channels.

• Gulp! Shrimp or Mud Minnow on a Jighead – Deadly for flounder, especially near marsh drains.

Largemouth Bass Lures:

Bass caught on Dickinson Bayou

• H&H Paddle Tails (White or Chartreuse) – A great crossover lure for bass in brackish water, these work well on a light jighead or weighted swimbait hook. Slow-roll them near laydowns and grass lines for reaction bites.

• Texas-Rigged Soft Plastics (Creature Baits, Worms, Flukes) – Perfect for working submerged timber and drop-offs.

• Spinnerbaits (White or Chartreuse) – A great way to trigger reaction bites around structure.

• Frogs & Topwater Lures – In the summer, bass explode on frogs in the backwaters and grassy edges.

• Crankbaits & Jerkbaits – Ideal for cooler months when bass are holding deeper.

Fishing Strategy and Tidal Influence

Like most Texas waters, understanding tides plays a crucial role in Dickinson Bayou fishing.

• Outgoing Tide: Fish stage near marsh drains, creek mouths, and bends where baitfish get pulled out.

• Incoming Tide: Redfish push shallow to feed, while bass tend to stay near structure unaffected by tides.

• Slack Tide: Slower fishing for inshore species, but bass can still be caught by working deeper structure.

Final Thoughts

Dickinson Bayou is a fantastic spot for kayak anglers looking to mix inshore and freshwater fishing in one trip. Whether you’re tossing a paddle tail for speckled trout or slow-rolling an H&H Paddle Tail for largemouth bass along a submerged tree, this bayou offers a little bit of everything.

Stay tuned to Beyond the Cast for more in-depth breakdowns of Texas inshore and freshwater fishing, and be sure to check out our YouTube channel for on-the-water footage of kayak fishing in Dickinson Bayou!

Tight lines!

April 1, 2025
How to Read Tides for Better Kayak Fishing: Understanding Movement and Positioning

Kayak fishing is all about being in the right place at the right time, and nothing dictates fish movement more than the tide. Whether you’re chasing redfish pushing into the shallows or speckled trout staging near structure, understanding how water moves will help you position yourself for better catches.

Unlike fishing from a boat, a kayak limits how far and fast you can move. That means planning around the tides isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. In this post, we’ll break down how tides work, where fish go during different stages, and how to position your kayak to take full advantage of tidal movement.

The Basics of Tides: What You Need to Know

Tides are the rise and fall of water levels caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun. Along the Texas coast, we generally experience a mix of:

• Two high tides and two low tides per day (semi-diurnal tides)

• One high tide and one low tide per day (diurnal tides)

These patterns shift throughout the year, and understanding them helps you predict when and where fish will be actively feeding.

Tides affect more than just water depth—they influence current strength, bait movement, and fish behavior. Let’s look at how different tidal stages impact fishing.

How Each Tide Stage Affects Fish Movement

Incoming Tide (Rising Water)

• What happens: Water pushes up onto the flats, flooding marshes and grass beds. Baitfish, shrimp, and crabs move into shallow areas, followed by hungry predators.

• Best fishing areas:

• Grass flats and flooded marshes where redfish hunt for crustaceans.

• Oyster bars and sand pockets where speckled trout ambush bait.

• Creeks and drains where baitfish move inland with the rising water.

• Kayak positioning tip: Set up near marsh edges, grass flats, or points where water is moving in. Cast lures upcurrent and let them drift naturally toward the strike zone.

High Tide (Peak Water Level)

• What happens: Water levels are at their highest, spreading bait over a larger area. Fish can be more scattered, making them harder to locate.

• Best fishing areas:

• Shallow pockets where redfish are cruising, often tailing.

• Deeper grass edges where speckled trout stage.

• Channels and drop-offs where fish wait for the next tidal shift.

• Kayak positioning tip: Paddle quietly along flooded grass flats and look for signs of activity like wakes, tailing fish, or nervous bait. If fish are spread out, cover water with a paddle tail soft plastic or a topwater lure to draw attention.

Outgoing Tide (Falling Water)

• What happens: Water drains from the flats, concentrating bait into deeper channels, cuts, and drop-offs. Predators position themselves to take advantage of the easy meals being pulled by the current.

• Best fishing areas:

• Tidal drains and creek mouths where baitfish get funneled into deeper water.

• The edges of oyster reefs where trout wait to ambush prey.

• Wind-blown shorelines with structure that hold redfish.

• Kayak positioning tip: Anchor near a drain or channel mouth and work lures with the outgoing current. A popping cork with a shrimp imitation works great in these scenarios, as does a soft plastic jig bounced along the bottom.

Low Tide (Lowest Water Level)

• What happens: Water is at its lowest, exposing oyster reefs, mud flats, and deeper potholes. Fish retreat to deeper water but still remain close to structure.

• Best fishing areas:

• Deeper channels and holes where fish are concentrated.

• Drop-offs near sandbars and reefs.

• Shallow areas where fish may be “trapped” waiting for the next incoming tide.

• Kayak positioning tip: If the tide is really low, be cautious of getting stuck in shallow areas. Focus on deeper structure and work slower-moving baits like suspending twitch baits or soft plastics on a jig head.

How to Use Tides to Plan Your Kayak Fishing Trip

1. Check the Tide Charts Before You Launch

Apps like Tides4Fishing, NOAA Tide Predictions, or Windy provide real-time tide data for your area. Look at when the tide will be rising or falling and plan your trip around those peak movement windows.

2. Consider Wind Direction

Wind can either help or hurt your fishing trip. A strong wind against the tide can slow water movement, while a wind pushing with the tide can accelerate it. Adjust your kayak positioning accordingly to take advantage of natural bait movement.

3. Look for Areas That Funnel Water

Anywhere water is forced through a smaller area—like a creek mouth, jetty, or channel—will create a natural ambush point for predators. These areas are excellent for targeting redfish and trout as the tide moves in or out.

4. Use the Current to Your Advantage

Instead of fighting the current, position your kayak so you can cast into it and retrieve your lure naturally with the flow. This mimics how baitfish move, making your presentation more effective.

5. Stay Mobile, but Be Strategic

Kayak fishing requires efficiency. Instead of paddling aimlessly, use the tide to drift through productive areas, covering more water with minimal effort. If the bite slows down, move to a new location where the current is stronger or weaker, depending on the stage of the tide.

Final Thoughts

Tides are one of the most important factors in inshore fishing, and learning to read them will significantly improve your success on the water. By understanding how water movement affects fish behavior and positioning your kayak accordingly, you’ll put yourself in the best possible spots to find actively feeding redfish and speckled trout.

Next time you hit the water, take a few minutes to study the tide charts and plan your approach—you’ll be amazed at how much of a difference it makes.

Stay Connected with Beyond the Cast

Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this post and want more fishing tips, trip reports, and on-the-water action, be sure to follow along.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for in-depth videos, gear breakdowns, and on-the-water adventures. Stay up to date by following us on Facebook, where we share fishing reports, trip updates, and connect with fellow anglers.

Join the conversation, share your catches, and let’s keep exploring the water together.

Tight lines, and see you Beyond the Cast!

What’s your favorite tide stage to fish? Drop a comment below and share your experience!

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March 21, 2025
In-Depth Spring Redfish Behavior in Freeport & Galveston

Spring is an exciting time for inshore anglers targeting redfish along the Texas coast, especially in the Freeport and Galveston areas. As water temperatures rise, redfish transition from their winter haunts into the shallows, feeding aggressively on baitfish and crustaceans. To consistently find and catch redfish this season, it’s crucial to understand their movement patterns, feeding behavior, and how tides and weather influence their activity.

In this post, we’ll break down spring redfish behavior and proven tactics for both the Freeport and Galveston areas so you can make the most of your time on the water.

Seasonal Transition: How Spring Affects Redfish

Redfish spend much of the winter in deeper channels, back lakes, and protected bayous, where they seek out stable water temperatures. As spring brings warmer weather, they begin pushing into shallow grass flats, marsh drains, and oyster beds, where food becomes more abundant.

Recent Observations from the Water

Last week, I noticed a significant increase in redfish moving into the shallows and grass flats. Both slot-sized reds and bull reds were cruising shorelines, especially in the marshy backwaters of Freeport and the grassy flats around Galveston’s West Bay. The warming trends throughout the day had these fish feeding aggressively, with multiple tailing reds in less than a foot of water.

Key environmental changes driving redfish movement:

• Rising water temperatures (60°F-75°F) – Increases redfish activity and feeding.

• Bait migrations – Shrimp, mullet, and menhaden begin pushing into shallower estuaries.

• Tidal influences – Higher tides allow reds to move into newly flooded grass flats.

• Spring rains and freshwater flow – Can impact redfish locations, especially near river mouths and marsh drains.

Redfish Movement Patterns in Freeport & Galveston

Recent Trip Insights

On my last trip, I noticed redfish moving into wind-protected flats and bayous as the day warmed up. In the morning, reds were still hanging around deeper drop-offs near bayous and channel edges. By late morning, they were actively feeding along shorelines and oyster reefs in Christmas Bay, Drum Bay, and the backwaters of Galveston’s West Bay.

Key Areas to Target in Freeport & Galveston

• Freeport

• Bastrop Bay & Christmas Bay – Shallow grass flats, oyster reefs, and marsh drains hold plenty of reds during a rising tide.

• Drum Bay & Hoskins Bayou – Great for targeting redfish in marsh channels and deeper bayous during outgoing tides.

• Cold Pass & San Luis Pass Back Lakes – Clearer water and strong tidal flow make these areas prime for sight fishing.

• Galveston

• West Bay (North Deer Island & Greens Lake) – Excellent springtime spots for redfish hunting bait along grassy shorelines.

• Jones Bay & Chocolate Bay – Shallow mud and shell bottoms warm up quickly, attracting feeding reds.

• East Bay (Anahuac Pocket & Marsh Drains) – Productive on an outgoing tide as bait flushes from the marshes.

Tides, Wind, and Feeding Behavior

Tides & Best Feeding Windows

On my last trip, the outgoing tide was the most productive, especially near marsh drains where redfish were stacked up waiting for bait to flush out. Slack tides were slow, but once the water started moving again, the bite picked up fast.

• Outgoing tides – Best for ambush feeding near marsh drains and cuts.

• Incoming tides – Reds push into newly flooded grass flats and shoreline pockets.

• Slack tide – Slower bite; good time to relocate or make adjustments.

Wind & Its Effect on Redfish

• South winds help push warmer water into the bays, keeping reds more active.

• North winds after a front can slow things down, pushing fish into deeper areas.

• Slight chop vs. calm conditions

• Slight chop makes redfish more aggressive.

• Calm conditions make reds spookier, requiring long casts and stealthy approaches.

4. Feeding Patterns & What Redfish Eat in Spring

Primary Forage for Spring Redfish

• Shrimp – A top bait choice in early spring, especially around marsh drains.

• Mullet – Bigger mullet become a key food source as temperatures warm up.

• Crabs – Found in grassy shorelines and a favorite target of tailing reds.

• Menhaden & Pinfish – Common in open water and around reefs.

Best Lures from My Last Trip

• JVS 3.5 Speed Shrimp (White & Gold) – Worked great on a slow retrieve along the flats.

• H&H Paddle Tail (Golden Bream) on a 1/8 oz Jighead – Perfect for bouncing near oyster beds.

• Gold Spoon (1/4 oz) – Great for covering water and triggering reaction bites.

Adjusting to Changing Spring Conditions

Cooler Mornings

• Work slow-moving soft plastics near deeper bayou edges.

• Look for mud-bottom areas that retain heat overnight.

Warmer Afternoons

• Target flats and grass shorelines, where reds become more active.

• Throw paddle tails or topwaters near structure.

Windy Days

• Focus on wind-blown shorelines, where bait is being pushed.

• Use louder lures like a popping cork with a shrimp imitation.

Calm & Clear Days

• Look for tailing reds in the shallows.

• Scale down to lighter fluorocarbon leaders (12-15 lb) and more natural-colored baits.

Interactive Map: Best Spring Redfish Locations

Google earth screenshot

Google earth screenshot

For a better look at these key fishing spots in Freeport and Galveston, I recommend using Google Earth or interactive fishing maps. These tools can help identify:

• Oyster reefs and grass flats where redfish are feeding.

• Marsh drains and bayous that hold fish on moving tides.

• Depth changes and structure that redfish relate to in different conditions.

Final Thoughts

Spring is one of the best times to target redfish in Freeport and Galveston, with warming waters bringing fish into the shallows and increasing feeding activity. Whether you’re working marsh drains, grass flats, or oyster reefs, understanding how redfish move with the seasons and tides will give you an edge on the water.

Every trip is a learning experience, so get out there, apply these strategies, and adjust to what the fish are telling you. Don’t forget to share your catches and experiences with us!

Stay Connected with Beyond the Cast

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for fishing videos, gear breakdowns, and on-the-water action. Stay up to date by following us on Facebook, where we share fishing reports, trip updates, and connect with fellow anglers.

Join the conversation, share your catches, and let’s keep exploring the water together.

Tight lines, and see you Beyond the Cast!

March 20, 2025