For me, August signifies one thing; the annual redfish spawn!
Most of you already know our local redfish population is fairly unique as these fish do not migrate to the ocean to spawn. Throughout the red drum’s entire range (Atlantic and Gulf) redfish typically leave the shallow lagoons and backwaters for the coastal ocean waters. This move takes place once the fish becomes sexually mature (somewhere around thirty inches).
Redfish living near an inlet will certainly roam in and out as feeding opportunities allow, though immature reds typically don’t wander very far. Adult redfish migrating by may also take advantage of a food source at any inlet they might be passing.
We see this routinely at Sebastian Inlet. Huge reds which have clearly been living in the ocean chase and devour mullet and other critters as they negotiate the swift running currents. We also see and catch these migrating monsters as they take up station outside Port Canaveral, frequently on the “shoals”.
Our local redfish simply don’t migrate out into the coastal waters, at least not in noticeable numbers. Likely because of the distance they have to travel to reach an inlet allowing passage to the ocean. From Titusville they would need to travel northward to Ponce Inlet or southward to Sebastian Inlet.
Luckily for the redfish and we anglers the salinity levels in our area of the Indian River and Mosquito Lagoon is high enough for a successful spawn.
Spawning typically starts around sundown. The time necessary to spawn varies, but the fish tend to rest afterwards. By sunup the fish become somewhat active.
If you are lucky enough to find a group of reds finning early in the morning after their spawn a stealthy approach and a well-placed cast should virtually guarantee you a tight line and a screaming drag.
In the event you miss out on this scenario do not become discouraged. As the day draws on you’ll undoubted see these monsters crushing the mullet schools as they aggressively feed throughout the day!
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