The red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as redfish, channel bass, puppy drum, spottail bass, or simply red, is a game fish found in the Atlantic Ocean from Massachusetts to Florida and in the Gulf of Mexico from Florida to northern Mexico. [2]

Red drum have also been called redfish, spottail, red bass, and channel bass. The life span of a red drum can exceed 40 years. Red drum inhabit inshore and offshore waters along the Atlantic coast from Massachusetts to Key West and throughout the Gulf of Mexico.

Red drum is a fast growing fish reaching approximately 11 inches and one pound in its first year, 17-22 inches and 3 1/2 pounds in two years, and 22-24 inches and 6-8 pounds in three years. The record red drum was 94 pounds and was caught on the East coast. The current Texas record is 59 1/2 pounds.

Redfish, technically red drum but also known by other names, including channel bass, are prized by trophy anglers and novices alike for their challenging fighting spirit and their delicious flavor. One of the largest sport fish found in near-shore coastal waters, anglers have caught bull redfish weighing up to 94 pounds.

May 5, 2021 · Redfish, or red drum as they are more officially called, are known for their stubborn fighting and distinctive spotted tail. Fishermen and women battle redfish in the surf of Texas, the marshes...

red drum. Kingdom. Animalia. Location in Taxonomic Tree . Genus. Sciaenops. Species. Sciaenops ocellatus. Identification Numbers. TSN: 169290. Geography. Launch Interactive Map. Working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.

May 27, 2024 · The red drum goes by many names, including channel bass, spottail bass, redfish, puppy drum, and just red. They are game fish primarily found in certain parts of the Gulf of Mexico, from Florida to northern Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.

Mar 26, 2025 · Red drum fishing hits its stride in late winter and early spring, when clear water and gathering baitfish set the stage for incredible sight fishing action. Whether it’s a surface-blitz of bull reds off the pier or spotting slot-sized fish cruising the surf, this season offers some of the most exciting opportunities to target these powerful game fish.

Floating a live shrimp under a popping cork is a good way to fish for redfish. They also chase crabs, mullet, pinfish and killifish (mud minnows). Casting soft-bodied jigs, spoons and even top-water plugs will catch the attention of these powerful estuarine musicians. Redfish make great table fare. Recreational Regulations.

Red drum have elongate bodies, are reddish-bronze in color, and have a distinct spot or series of spots at the base of the caudal fin. Scientists believe this prominent spot on the tail confuses predators into attacking the fish’s tail instead of its head, giving the fish a better chance to escape.