There’s something magical about fishing for redfish in Naples during the fall. It’s not just the cooler air, or the way the water takes on that calm, glassy feel early in the morning. It’s also the thrill of targeting one of Florida’s most iconic inshore fish. Whether it’s watching a redfish tailing on the flats or feeling the power of a bull red ripping drag, fall is when Naples truly shines for redfish enthusiasts.
This guide will give you everything you need to know—not just the basics, but the deeper understanding that turns good fishing trips into unforgettable ones. From where to go, what to use, and how to adapt to changing conditions, this is your one-stop resource for targeting redfish in Naples during the autumn months.
Why Fall is the Golden Season for Redfish in Naples
Let’s get this out of the way: Naples is a great redfish destination year-round. However, fall is something special. Why? Three big reasons: water temperature, bait activity, and fish behavior.
When the relentless summer heat starts to back off, the water temperatures drop into the ideal range for redfish—usually between 70–75°F. This temperature shift invigorates the fish, making them more active, aggressive, and willing to roam shallower waters.
At the same time, the bait scene is exploding. Finger mullet, pilchards, shrimp, and crabs are everywhere, drawing redfish out of their summer haunts to feed. In fall, these fish pack on weight for the colder months ahead, which means they’re hungry and easier to target.
Finally, redfish start schooling up in larger groups during the fall, especially juveniles in the inshore shallows and bull reds in deeper water. If you find one redfish, there’s a good chance there are more nearby.
Where to Target Redfish in Naples
The beauty of Naples is its diversity of fishing habitats. Redfish aren’t limited to one type of area, which gives anglers a variety of options to explore. Here’s a breakdown of the most productive spots:
1. Mangrove Shorelines and Backwaters
When most people think of targeting redfish in Naples, mangroves come to mind—and for good reason. The mangrove-lined backwaters around Rookery Bay, the Ten Thousand Islands, and even parts of Naples Bay are prime redfish territory. These fish love hunting along the tangled roots of mangroves, where shrimp, crabs, and baitfish abound.
On a rising tide, redfish push deep into the mangroves, so don’t be afraid to cast tight into the shadows. If you can skip a bait or lure under the overhangs, even better. As the tide falls, they’ll move out to adjacent oyster bars or mudflats, which are also great ambush points.
2. Grass Flats
Seagrass beds are a key habitat for redfish, especially in Naples Bay and nearby Estero Bay. These areas are essentially underwater meadows teeming with bait. On higher tides, redfish will spread out across the flats, feeding on crabs and small fish hiding in the grass.
One trick for spotting redfish on the flats is to watch for “tailing.” This happens when redfish feed with their heads down, exposing their tails above the surface. It’s a sight that gets the heart racing for any angler.
Focus on patchy grass flats with sandy potholes—they act as natural ambush spots where redfish wait for prey.
3. Passes and Deeper Channels
For anglers after the big bulls, passes like Gordon Pass and Wiggins Pass are the places to be. During the fall spawning season, larger redfish gather in these areas to feed and reproduce. These fish often stick to deeper water, so be prepared to fish closer to the bottom with heavier gear.
4. Docks and Residential Canals
If you prefer fishing closer to town, Naples has no shortage of productive docks and canals. Redfish are structure-oriented, so docks provide the perfect blend of shade, current, and bait. Focus on docks with deeper water access and good tidal flow for the best results.
When to Fish for Redfish: Tides, Weather, and Timing
Fishing isn’t just about where you go—it’s also about when. Redfish behavior is heavily influenced by tides, weather, and time of day. Let’s break it down:
Tides
Tides are the single most important factor in redfish fishing. In the mangroves and flats, a rising tide is golden. As the water comes in, redfish follow, using the higher water levels to push into areas they couldn’t reach before.
On a falling tide, the fish will often pull back to deeper water, especially around channels, passes, or the edges of flats. A falling tide creates natural bait funnels, making it easier for redfish to hunt.
If you can, plan your trip around the peak tidal movement (the hours just before and after high or low tide). This is when fish activity is highest.
Time of Day
Redfish can bite at any time, but early mornings and late afternoons are prime. During these windows, lower light levels make redfish feel more secure venturing into shallower areas. Plus, baitfish are often more active during these times.
Mid-day fishing can still be productive, especially if you focus on deeper channels, shaded mangroves, or docks. Just be prepared to adapt to the conditions.
Weather
Fall weather in Naples can be unpredictable. Storms roll through quickly, and wind conditions can change in a heartbeat. While overcast days are great for redfish (they’re more comfortable feeding in the open), strong winds can make fishing difficult.
If possible, fish just before a cold front moves in. The pressure changes often trigger a feeding frenzy.
What to Use: Baits, Lures, and Fly Gear
Now that you know when and where to fish, let’s talk about what to throw. Redfish aren’t picky eaters, but having the right bait or lure can make a big difference.
Live and Cut Bait
Live bait is hard to beat for redfish. Some of the most effective options include:
- Shrimp: A classic choice for a reason. Use them under a popping cork near mangroves or docks.
- Finger Mullet: Perfect for targeting larger fish. Hook them through the nose or behind the dorsal fin for a natural presentation.
- Pilchards: Another favorite, especially for fishing around flats and passes.
Cut bait works well too, especially for bigger redfish. Fresh chunks of mullet or ladyfish fished on the bottom can be irresistible.
Artificial Lures
If you prefer artificials, you’re in luck—redfish readily take a variety of lures:
- Soft Plastics: Paddle tails, jerkbaits, and shrimp imitations are all effective. Choose natural colors like gold, brown, or white to mimic local baitfish.
- Spoons: Gold spoons are a time-tested redfish lure, offering flash and vibration that draws attention.
- Topwater Plugs: For early mornings or evenings, topwater lures can trigger explosive strikes.
Fly Fishing
Fly anglers will love targeting redfish in the fall. Popular patterns include shrimp, crab, and baitfish imitations. Use weighted flies for deeper water and lighter patterns for flats.
Essential Gear and Techniques
For inshore redfish, a medium spinning rod (7-foot, fast action) paired with a 3000-4000 size reel is ideal. Use 10-20 lb braided line with a 20-30 lb fluorocarbon leader to handle their abrasive mouths and the occasional snag.
For live bait fishing, circle hooks in the 2/0-3/0 range are perfect. For artificials, match the hook size to your bait or jig head.
When casting to redfish, accuracy is key. Whether it’s a lure or live bait, place your cast slightly ahead of the fish’s path and let them come to it naturally.
Tips for Success
- Stay Quiet: Redfish are skittish in shallow water. Avoid loud noises and use a push pole or trolling motor to navigate quietly.
- Watch the Water: Look for signs like tailing fish, nervous bait, or slicks (oily patches on the water indicating feeding activity).
- Be Patient: If you know fish are in the area, don’t give up too quickly. Experiment with different baits, lures, or presentations.
- Handle with Care: Redfish are tough but deserve respect. Use wet hands or a rubber net to handle them and release them quickly if you’re practicing catch-and-release.
The Best of Fall Redfishing in Naples
Fall fishing in Naples brings together everything that makes for a great day on the water—ideal conditions, abundant baitfish, and redfish actively patrolling the mangroves, flats, and channels. You now have the tools to succeed, from understanding how tides influence fish behavior to choosing the right bait or lures to tempt redfish into biting. With the cooling weather of fall, there’s no better time to explore the incredible fishing opportunities in this area.
For anglers who want to make every trip count, Chasin’ Tails is here to take your fishing experience to the next level. Led by Captain Geoff Crouse, our charters are tailored to suit anglers of all levels. Whether it’s your first time casting for redfish or you’re a seasoned pro refining your techniques, we offer light tackle and fly fishing trips designed to get you right on the action.
When you fish with Chasin’ Tails, it’s not just about catching redfish—it’s about learning the skills and strategies that will make you a better angler, trip after trip. From reading the water to perfecting your cast, we’re here to help you succeed.
This fall, let’s get you hooked on the unforgettable fishing Naples has to offer. Book your fishing charter with Chasin’ Tails today and experience the best of Florida redfishing!
