Summertime Redfish Tactics
Summertime Redfish Fishing from a Bay Boat with Captain John of Folly Beach Fishing Charters
When the South Carolina summer cranks up the heat, so does the redfish bite—especially for those who know where (and how) to find them. Captain John of Folly Beach Fishing Charters specializes in targeting redfish from the comfort and capability of a bay boat, putting his clients on fish all summer long without having to wade through grass or throw artificial lures. His method? Keep it simple: fish deeper water and use cut bait.
Why Go Deep in the Summer Heat
As air and water temperatures climb into the upper 80s and beyond, redfish become less active in shallow, sun-soaked flats. Instead, they move to deeper, cooler water—creek bends, channels, drop-offs, and the edges of oyster beds. These deeper zones offer better oxygen levels and relief from the blazing sun.
Captain John uses his bay boat’s shallow draft and smooth ride to move easily between these areas, positioning precisely with a trolling motor or Power-Pole to set up the perfect presentation. The deeper water not only holds more fish—it also keeps them in a more predictable, ambush-feeding pattern.
Cut Bait: The Summer Redfish Staple
When the water gets hot, redfish rely more on scent than sight. That’s where cut bait becomes essential. Captain John’s go-to options include:
Cut mullet
Cut menhaden (pogies)
Frozen Shrimp
These baits release a strong scent trail in the water, drawing in redfish even when they’re being finicky or holding tight to structure.
He rigs up using a Carolina rig—a sliding egg sinker above a swivel, 12–18 inches of fluorocarbon leader, and a 3/0 or 4/0 circle hook. This setup allows the bait to stay near the bottom and move naturally in the current, where redfish are cruising for an easy meal.
Where the Bay Boat Shines
Captain John’s bay boat is the perfect platform for summertime inshore fishing. With its low draft, ample space, and stable ride, anglers can comfortably fish both the nearshore rivers and more open areas of the Folly River and surrounding tidal creeks. He can tuck into tight spots behind oyster mounds or set up on open points—all without losing the comfort and efficiency of a larger vessel.
Pro Tips from Capt. John
Tide Timing Matters: Focus on moving water, especially on the outgoing tide when bait is being flushed from the marsh into deeper holes.
Let the Bait Soak: Redfish can be cautious in the heat, so don’t be afraid to let that cut bait sit and do the work.
Stay Quiet: Even in deeper water, summer redfish are sensitive to noise. Captain John uses his trolling motor minimally and keeps the boat quiet when anchoring.
Book Your Summer Redfish Charter
Summertime redfish fishing with Captain John is laid-back, productive, and perfect for anglers of all skill levels. You’ll enjoy a comfortable ride on the bay boat, experience beautiful Lowcountry scenery, and get a shot at hard-fighting redfish using tried-and-true tactics.
Ready to fish smarter this summer? Book your redfish trip with Captain John of Folly Beach Fishing Charters today! www.follybeachfishingcharters.com
Comments
Post a Comment