6 Reviews
The sun glints off the water. Ripples dance across the surface. A boat bobs gently. Fishing rods lean against the gunwale. The air smells of salt and seaweed. A splash breaks the silence. A flash of red beneath the waves. The line goes taut. The reel screams. The rod bends. A battle begins. Muscles strain. The fish fights hard. Slowly it tires. Finally it surfaces. A magnificent redfish. Its scales shimmer in the light. A quick photo. Then back it goes. The water welcomes it home. Another memory made on the flats.
Norfolk, Virginia offers anglers an exciting opportunity to target the prized Sciaenops ocellatus, better known as red drum or redfish. As you set out on the Chesapeake Bay's calm waters, the anticipation builds for a day of thrilling fishing action. The sun rises over the horizon, casting a warm glow on the water's surface as you prepare your gear. Experienced local guides recommend using medium-heavy spinning tackle with 20-30 lb braided line for the best results. Live bait such as mullet, menhaden, or blue crabs proves irresistible to these powerful fish. As you navigate the bay's channels and flats, keep an eye out for signs of feeding activity like swirls or bait fish jumping. Redfish often congregate near structures like oyster beds, grass flats, and channel edges. When you spot a promising area, cast your bait and let it sink to the bottom. The wait can be tense, but when a redfish strikes, be prepared for a fierce fight. These copper-colored beauties can grow to impressive sizes, with some specimens reaching over 40 pounds. As you reel in your catch, admire the distinctive black spot near the tail that gives the species its name. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a newcomer to the sport, pursuing redfish in Norfolk's waters promises an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty and the thrill of the catch.
The tranquil waters of Norfolk Virginia stretch out before us a serene canal flanked by lush greenery and elegant homes As the sun casts its warm glow across the landscape the scene is set for an unforgettable fishing adventure The calm surface of the water reflects the surrounding beauty creating a mirror-like effect that adds to the areas charm This picturesque setting serves as the perfect backdrop for our quest to catch the prized Sciaenops Ocellatus more commonly known as red drum or redfish
The narrow waterway provides excellent conditions for targeting redfish With its sheltered environment and abundance of natural structures these waters offer prime habitat for our target species The gentle current and clear waters allow for various fishing techniques including jigging and trolling As we navigate through the canal we keep a watchful eye for signs of activity beneath the surface ready to cast our lines at a moments notice
Along the banks of the canal we observe a mix of modern and traditional homes each with their own private docks These residences offer their inhabitants direct access to the waterway and serve as constant reminders of the close relationship between the local community and the aquatic environment The well-maintained properties and manicured lawns add to the overall aesthetic appeal of the area creating a harmonious blend of natural beauty and suburban comfort
Redfish