Schools of 20-40 pound reds are starting their annual spawn inshore. The Lagoon System is one of the very few places in the world where large redfish spawn inshore instead of in open Atlantic and Gulf waters. There have been a few reports of a big school in the area since the beginning of September, and this should last through much of October. Depending on the weather, they may stick around through November.

You may encounter these fish at any time of day or night, but my best luck has been mid-morning and late-afternoon. The moon is definitely a factor.

The big schools are usually in 3-4 ft of water on drop-offs from the flats. The Indian River Lagoon schools are on the eastern shoreline from the very north end of the river through 528. There are hotspots, but this year all of my fish have been a few miles away of where I got them last year. It’s often worth looking around.

Look for a bunch of tails, or a bunch of slow moving wakes. Bait getting crashed is usually the result of tarpon or seatrout. The redfish tails have a very slight fork, unlike the broom shaped tails of the black drum. Fast moving fish often won’t eat. If it’s blowing, blind fishing may work.

When you seem them, cast in front of the school. If you cast in or too close to them, they will spook. Approach them quietly because they spook easily. Chunked mullet is easily the best choice. They will also hit ladyfish chunks, blue crab, and dead finger mullet. Live baits such as finger mullet work too. Lastly, when they’re hungry artificials and flies should get the job done too.

Big redfish make long runs and fight harder than a black drum of the same weight. These fish are the future of our lagoons, so it’s important to take good care and ensure a successful release. Never hold the fish only by the head, and always take time reviving. Use appropriate size tackle to avoid fighting the fish for too long, therefore exhausting the fish.

I use a 4000 size Shimano Stradic with a medium-heavy Teramar rod spooled with 20 lb powerpro. I use a 20 lb leader and 2/0 circle hook. This is perfect for fish on the flats. However, if you decide to target them in the Ocean, Inlet, Port, or Haulover, go with something heavier.

If the big reds aren’t biting or around, all common species are biting. I have more videos on my YouTube channel 321BigFish from this week.