Jetty Fishing For Monster Fall Redfish

It’s that time of year when the Redfish start moving looking for the migrating baits. The water is becoming cooler and the Reds are more active. That can only mean many of them will be moving out the inlets and jetties to enjoy the banquet. It’s a great time to come out of the creeks and head out the inlets to fish for some of those hungry Bull Reds. It’s an annual event that’s both fun and productive. However, it’s somewhat different than fishing for Reds in the somewhat calm environment of the inshore creeks where you’re normally fishing for Redfish. For that my friend you need to change your game considerably.

Before You Go, You Should Know!

Fishing the jetties and inlets is far different than fishing inside. There are multiple important factors that you have to deal with.

1. The inlets will oftentimes have considerable traffic which means possible wakes. This impacts your ability to stand in the bumpy conditions caused by wakes as well as the fast running tides. Don’t be a macho man. Wear a PFD at all times. Everyone on the boat should as well. Also, never go by yourself. In the event you need help, it will be there.
2. Have a backup anchor. Anchoring near the jetties can often result in a hung anchor on the rocks below. Believe me, I know this from experience. Also, stay a good distance from the rocks for many reasons.
3. Never anchor close to other boats. With the boat traffic and the current, your anchor could break free and you end up slamming a nearby boat. It’s a good way to ding another boat, or even your own, and start a fight when you return to the boat ramp.
4. Keep the engine running in the event the anchor breaks loose. See #2. and #3. If you need to make a quick move, having the engine running suddenly becomes a stroke of genious.

When You Get There

Anchor up-current of the cut and work the lure against the flow.  Throw it out toward the cut, let it sink a few seconds, and then reel it in as fast as you can. The movement  of the current will allow the rattles to be even more effective. You’ll also find the big Reds in the deep holes usually found around the southern tip of the jetties. However you can also find these holes holding big Reds all along the jetty walls. A good tactic is to cast just above the waterline onto the rocks themselves and retrieve back into the hole. The Reds many times hit on the first few casts, so be ready. Look for the bigger rocks which is also a popular place for the Redfish to gather.