Saltwater Species Behavior

Why do redfish tail on shallow flats?

Redfish tail in shallow water (often less than 18 inches deep) when they tip head-down to feed on crabs, shrimp, and worms in the bottom — their tails break the surface as they search for prey. Tailing happens most aggressively on incoming and high tide when water has just flooded onto previously dry flats.

Sight-fishing tailing redfish is one of the most exciting inshore fisheries. Cast small soft plastics or fly patterns 3-4 feet ahead of the tail, then move slowly to imitate fleeing prey. See migration calendar pages for redfish seasonal availability.

Bield Fish earns its predictions.

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