Redfish are one of the most rewarding saltwater species to target on fly, but their behavior changes based on water depth, mood, and conditions. Your presentation needs to match what the fish are doing at that moment.

• Approach with stealth. Redfish in shallow water are hyper-aware of movement and noise. Poling quietly, wading slowly, and keeping your rod movements low will help you avoid spooking them before you even make a cast.
• Lead the fish, but not too much. Unlike bonefish, redfish often won’t chase a fly from far away. If you cast too far ahead, they might never see it. A good rule is to land the fly 1 to 2 feet in front of their nose.
• Match the retrieve to their behavior. If a redfish is actively hunting with its head down, a slow crawl along the bottom mimics a crab or shrimp. If the fish is cruising higher in the water, short strips with slight pauses can trigger a reaction.
• Don’t move the fly too much if the fish is locked in. Many redfish will track a fly for a few feet before committing. If you keep stripping, you might pull it away. When you see a red following, pause slightly—they’ll often inhale the fly right then.
• Use the right fly for the conditions. In murky water, redfish rely on vibration and contrast, so a darker fly with a strong profile works best. In clear water, go lighter and more natural.
• If a fish ignores your fly, switch angles. Sometimes a redfish just doesn’t see the fly well from your initial cast. Instead of reeling in and casting again, try a slight reposition with a small strip to put the fly in their line of sight.

Final Thought

Redfish eat when the presentation is right—it’s rarely about the fly and almost always about how you fish it. Stay patient, read the fish, and make your adjustments in real-time.