10 Best Live Bait For Redfish (2024 Update)

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If you're looking to catch redfish, live bait is an excellent option. It's a classic technique that has been used for years and is still popular today. In this article, we'll discuss some key points to consider when looking for live bait for redfish.

Firstly, it's important to know what types of bait are popular for redfish. Some of the most commonly used live bait include shrimp, mullet, and crabs. Each of these bait options has its own unique benefits, so it's worth considering which one might work best for your specific fishing location and conditions.

Secondly, you should also consider the size of the bait. Redfish can be picky eaters, so you'll want to make sure that your bait is the right size for the fish you're targeting. Additionally, you'll want to make sure that your bait is alive and healthy before using it.

Thirdly, the time of day can also impact the effectiveness of live bait for redfish. Typically, early morning and evening are the best times to fish for redfish, so it's worth considering when planning your fishing trip.

Fourthly, the type of water you're fishing in can also impact the effectiveness of your live bait. Redfish tend to prefer shallow waters, so it's worth considering the depth and clarity of the water in your chosen fishing location.

Finally, it's worth considering your own personal preferences when choosing live bait for redfish. Some anglers prefer to use artificial bait or lures, while others prefer to use live bait. Ultimately, the choice is up to you and what you feel most comfortable using.

In summary, when looking for live bait for redfish, it's important to consider the type of bait, the size of the bait, the time of day, the type of water, and your own personal preferences. By keeping these key points in mind, you'll be well on your way to a successful fishing trip!

10 Best Live Bait For Redfish

1. I.f. Anderson Farms 2 1/4" Golden Shiners (4 Lbs-Approx. 668 Fish) Live Bait

I.F. Anderson Farms offers a 4-pound package of live golden shiners, each measuring 2 1/4 inches. With approximately 668 fish per package, this live bait is perfect for anglers who need a steady supply of healthy baitfish for their fishing trips.

Please note that this product cannot be shipped to all states, and a permit may be required for shipping. Unfortunately, we cannot ship to California due to state regulations. We advise checking with your state's wildlife agency to determine if a permit is required for shipping live baitfish.

At I.F. Anderson Farms, we take great care to ensure that our golden shiners are healthy and ready for use as live bait. We guarantee live arrival of our baitfish, so you can trust that your package will arrive in good condition and ready for use.

Golden shiners are a popular choice for freshwater fishing, particularly for species such as bass and crappie. These baitfish are known for their bright, golden coloration and their ability to stay alive on a hook for extended periods of time.

When using live bait, it's important to handle it with care to ensure that it remains healthy and active. We recommend keeping your live baitfish in a cool, aerated container until you're ready to use them. You can also add ice to the container to help keep the water temperature low and reduce stress on the fish.

Overall, I.F. Anderson Farms' 2 1/4" golden shiners are a reliable and high-quality choice for anglers who want the best live bait for their fishing trips. With our live arrival guarantee and commitment to healthy fish, you can feel confident in your purchase and focus on reeling in your catch.

2. Rio Premier Redfish Xp Wf8f

The Rio Premier Redfish XP WF8F is a saltwater fly line designed for anglers targeting redfish and speckled trout on the flats. Built with two distinct tapers, this line is engineered to cast larger flies for catching big bull Gulf Red's.

This Redfish XP line is designed specifically with extra power in mind for the larger fish and flies typical of gulf redfishing. It is the complete series of fly lines for targeting red drum in the backwater, on the beach, and in the gulf.

The line features a short front taper, turning over large mullet and baitfish patterns, while the short, easy casting head effectively loads the rod at close range. All lines in the series are built with medium-stiff cores and hard coatings that perform well throughout the range of temperatures encountered while targeting redfish.

Rio offers a wide selection of saltwater fly lines for anglers of all abilities in all conditions. Whether fishing flats for Bonefish, Permit or Tarpon in the tropics or heaving big baitfish patterns into the surf for Stripers, they have the right line. A wide selection of both tropical and cold water fly lines ensure that they have every fishing condition and season covered. All fly lines are built with sophisticated tapers and the latest technology for the modern angler.

For more than 20 years, Rio has demonstrated passion, innovation, and a pure love for the sport through its development of the industry's highest performance fly lines. And the great news is, they will continue to research, design, and refine their products to ensure they are your preferred line of choice for years to come.

3. Luminous Shrimp Fishing Lure Set With Hooks For Freshwater/saltwater Fishing.

WANBY Fishing Shrimp Lures Artificial Silicone Soft Bait Set is a top-quality fishing tackle suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. The lure set is designed to mimic the look and feel of real-life shrimp, making it hard to resist for most fish species. It is an ideal choice for people who are passionate about fishing and want to improve their catch rates.

The WANBY soft shrimp lure baits set has a very detailed shape that gives it a realistic design, making it almost impossible for fish to distinguish from a real shrimp. The lure set comes in extraordinary colors that make it more attractive and appealing to fish. When held in hand, the lure feels like a real shrimp, which makes it easier to use for fishing.

The WANBY soft shrimp lure baits set is very easy to use. All you need to do is connect the fishing line, and you're good to go. The lure set can catch a variety of fish species like Trout, Bass, Salmon, and many others. The silicone shrimp is simple to use and sits well on the hook, making it more efficient for catching fish.

All WANBY soft shrimp lure baits set are made with premium high-quality plastic. This makes the lure soft, flexible, with high-resolution body detail, life-like swimming actions in water, and a hidden hook that makes it more efficient for catching fish. The lure set is designed to be durable, which ensures that it can withstand the harsh conditions of saltwater fishing.

The WANBY soft shrimp lure baits set can be used to catch a variety of fish species like Bream, Bass, Flathead, Whiting, Snapper, Trevally, Flounder, Jewfish, Kingfish, Hairtail, Golden Perch, Trout, Redfin, Bonito, Salmon, Tailor, Bonito, Small Tuna, Yellowtail, Mackerel, Squid, and any other freshwater and saltwater species. With this lure set, you can improve your catch rates and enjoy fishing to the fullest.

In conclusion, WANBY Fishing Shrimp Lures Artificial Silicone Soft Bait Set is an excellent investment for people who are passionate about fishing. The lure set is designed to be efficient, durable, and easy to use, which makes it ideal for both beginners and experienced anglers. Additionally, purchasing WANBY's product guarantees high-quality service, and it is provided by Amazon Prime, ensuring you receive the package in good condition and on time.

4. Set Of 10 Artificial Crab Baits With Sharp Hooks For Saltwater Fishing.

The MOTZU Set of 10 Artificial Crab Baits is a must-have for any fishing enthusiast. These soft lures are designed to mimic the natural movements of crabs, making them an irresistible target for a variety of fish species.

Crafted from high-quality silicone, these lures are built to last and can withstand the rigors of frequent use. They feature exquisite details that make them look and feel like real crabs, complete with air-filled claws that provide exceptional underwater action.

One of the standout features of the MOTZU Set of 10 Artificial Crab Baits is their versatility. They can be used to catch a wide range of fish, including Bream, Bass, Flathead, Whiting, Snapper, Flounder, Small Tuna, Yellowtail, Mackerel, Squid, and any freshwater and saltwater species.

The bright colors of these lures are intended to attract big fish, and they come equipped with luminous beads that enhance the night fishing effect. These features make these lures an excellent choice for anglers who want to increase their chances of a successful catch.

Each lure in the MOTZU Set of 10 Artificial Crab Baits is equipped with two sharp hooks that make it easier to catch fish. This feature provides the flexibility to fish anywhere, including ponds, oceans, boats, lakes, and more.

Overall, the MOTZU Set of 10 Artificial Crab Baits is a top-quality fishing accessory that is sure to deliver results. Its lifelike design, versatility, and sharp hooks make it an essential tool for any angler who wants to improve their chances of a successful catch.

5. 100 Count Toledo Goldfish Rosie Red Minnows – Ideal For Ponds, Aquariums, Or Tanks As Feeder Fish – 0.5-1.5 Inches.

Toledo Goldfish offers high-quality Rosie Red minnows, perfect as feeder fish for ponds, aquariums, or tanks. These hardy fish are recommended for beginners and make a healthy food source for pets. With a live arrival guarantee and step-by-step instructions for acclimation, customers can trust that their orders will arrive in excellent condition.

Toledo Goldfish is a family-owned small business based in the United States, and all live products are born and raised in the country. The company provides free shipping on all live-product orders, including Goldfish, Koi, Crayfish, minnows, tadpoles, and snails. Additionally, free shipping is offered on any fish food orders totaling $25 or more.

Rosie Red minnows are known for their vibrant color and are a great addition to any aquarium or pond. They are also an excellent choice for those new to the world of fishkeeping as they are hardy and easy to care for. As a feeder fish, they are a healthy food source for pets and can provide them with essential nutrients.

Toledo Goldfish takes pride in providing customers with quality products and offers a live arrival guarantee for all orders. Customers can rest assured that their orders will arrive in excellent condition and that they will receive step-by-step instructions for acclimation.

Please note that the pictures shown on the website are a good representation of the fish, but not the exact fish customers will receive. Toledo Goldfish is committed to providing customers with high-quality products and excellent customer service.

6. 5-Pack Soft Fish And Crab Lures With Sharp Hooks For Saltwater Fishing.

The minihut 5 Pack Soft Fish Fishing Crab Lures Bait Artificial with Sharp Hooks Simulation Saltwater Lure Fishing Tackle Accessory Tool is a must-have for any fishing enthusiast. These soft fishing crab lures are designed to mimic the movements and appearance of real crabs, making them highly effective at attracting and catching big fish.

The exquisite details of these lures, combined with the sharp hooks, make them a reliable and durable addition to your fishing gear. The crab bait comes in three bright colors – black, orange, and green – which are known to attract big fish in saltwater environments. The air-filled claws of the lures also add to their underwater action, making them even more enticing to fish.

One of the main advantages of these soft fishing crab lures is their lifelike appearance. The lures have been carefully designed to look and move like real crabs, which is sure to fool even the most discerning fish. Additionally, the top saltwater colors of the lures make them highly visible and attractive under the water.

Each package of minihut 5 Pack Soft Fish Fishing Crab Lures Bait Artificial with Sharp Hooks Simulation Saltwater Lure Fishing Tackle Accessory Tool includes five soft fishing lures. The color of the lures is selected at random, which adds to the excitement of using them.

Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality fishing lure that is both effective and durable, the minihut 5 Pack Soft Fish Fishing Crab Lures Bait Artificial with Sharp Hooks Simulation Saltwater Lure Fishing Tackle Accessory Tool is an excellent choice. With their lifelike appearance, sharp hooks, and bright colors, these lures are sure to help you catch more fish on your next fishing trip.

7. Kastking Kapstan Elite Spinning Reel,saltwater Fishing Reel,size 6000

The KastKing Kapstan Elite Spinning Reel is a top-of-the-line fishing reel that has been specially engineered for saltwater fishing. It is KastKing’s highest level, 100% waterproof fishing reel with an IPX6 rating, and features up to 15 EverSeal rubber rings to keep water out of the main gear. The KastKing Intrusion Shield System includes labyrinth-style greased sealing grooves that reduce rotational resistance and provide an innovative water-tight seal.

This premium saltwater spinning reel is designed with a powerful braking force for reeling in big fish. Sizes 3000/4000 have an ultra-smooth triple-disc carbon fiber drag system and 30lbs max drag; 5000/6000 have a quad-disc carbon fiber drag system with 40lbs max drag; and 8000 have a special double drag system, consisting of five front carbon fiber discs and one oversized spool carbon disc, to provide 55lbs max drag. It is perfect for reeling in big game fish.

The KastKing Kapstan Elite Spinning Reel has a super-strong aluminum body with max-strength CNC aluminum frame construction. Sizes 3000/4000 have a carbon fiber rotor for strength with reduced weight. Sizes 5000/6000/8000 have a CNC Aluminum Rotor for extra-strength and power fishing. The large power handle and knob are machined from solid aluminum to provide incredible cranking power. This spinning reel has the strongest overall design for offshore sport-fishing, deep-sea game fishing, and blue water fishing.

Each Kapstan Elite reel is equipped with 6 double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings that provide a superbly smooth feel even in rough conditions. Plus, one special-designed polymer roller bearing that is high-strength and never rusts, and one 8-pin stainless steel one-way bearing to prevent the flywheel from reversing. The best-in-class HRB 90 high strength aerospace alloy pinion gear with manganese brass gear guarantees extreme durability and a smooth operation. These heavy-duty gears are 20% more durable than aluminum and 95% more durable than zinc alloys. The high-capacity CNC aluminum spool has a braid-ready structure, so there’s no need for back braiding when spooling.

To reduce line twist, it is recommended to manually close the bail arm after making a cast when using any spinning reel. However, on the size 3000 & 4000 Kapstan Elite Spinning reels, you can turn the handle to close the bail if you prefer. The size 5000/6000 & 8000 Kapstan Elite spinning reels are a different design. These reels require you to manually close the bail to begin the retrieve. It is important to note that turning the handle will not close the bail automatically. This is a performance feature on larger saltwater reels and not a defect in the design.

Overall, the KastKing Kapstan Elite Spinning Reel is an ultra-smooth and reliable fishing reel that is built to withstand the harsh conditions of saltwater fishing. Its exceptional strength and smooth drag make it the perfect tool for reeling in big game fish.

8. Crayfish From Toledo Goldfish – Perfect For Ponds Or Aquariums – 25 Count

Toledo Goldfish offers a unique and diverse addition to your aquarium, tank, or koi pond with their crayfish. These crawdads, also known as crayfish, come in a pack of 25 and are perfect for both beginners and experts alike.

The crayfish are born and raised in the USA on a family farm, ensuring the highest quality and care. They are for ornamental purposes only and add a unique variety to any aquatic environment. The crayfish can vary in size but are generally 2 to 5 inches in length. Customers can contact Toledo Goldfish if they have any sizing preferences.

Toledo Goldfish provides a live arrival guarantee and ships the crayfish within 48 hours of the order for arrival between Tuesday and Friday. The package includes step-by-step acclimation instructions, ensuring the crayfish arrive healthy and ready to thrive in their new home. If necessary, Toledo Goldfish will ship replacements or refund the purchase.

The crayfish are hardy, making them an excellent choice for those starting new aquariums, tanks, or ponds. The pictures shown on the website are a good representation of the crayfish, but it is important to note that the customers will not receive the exact crayfish shown in the images.

Toledo Goldfish is dedicated to providing reliable shipping and exceptional customer service. They stand behind all their products, including these unique live crayfish. Customers can be confident in their purchase and expect a seamless experience from start to finish.

In conclusion, Toledo Goldfish's crayfish offer a unique and diverse addition to any aquatic environment. They are born and raised in the USA, come with a live arrival guarantee, and are perfect for beginners and experts alike. With reliable shipping and exceptional customer service, customers can trust Toledo Goldfish for all their aquatic needs.

9. Penn Spinfisher Vi 4500 Spinning Saltwater Reel With 6.2:1 Gear Ratio, 6 Bearings, And Ambidextrous Design.

The PENN 1481262 Spinfisher VI Spinning Saltwater Reel is a high-quality fishing reel designed for saltwater use. With a 4500 reel size, 6.2:1 gear ratio, and 40" retrieve rate, this reel is built for performance.

One of the standout features of this reel is its IPX5 sealed body and spool design. This means that the reel is protected from water intrusion, making it ideal for use in harsh saltwater environments. The CNC gear technology also ensures that the reel operates smoothly and efficiently.

Another benefit of the PENN 1481262 Spinfisher VI Spinning Saltwater Reel is its ability to keep expensive rods off the ground to prevent damage. This is achieved through the use of a specialized bail trip mechanism that allows the bail to close slowly and smoothly, preventing the rod from hitting the ground.

The 5+1 sealed stainless steel ball bearing system is another important feature of this reel. This system ensures that the reel operates smoothly and quietly, while also providing excellent corrosion resistance.

Overall, the PENN 1481262 Spinfisher VI Spinning Saltwater Reel is an excellent choice for anglers looking for a high-quality, reliable saltwater reel. With its rugged construction, smooth operation, and advanced features, this reel is sure to provide years of reliable performance on the water.

10. Green Blob Outdoors Underwater Fishing Light With Timer And 30000 Lumen For Snook.

The Green Blob Outdoors Underwater Fishing Light is a high-quality LED light designed to attract fish and enhance fishing experiences. With a powerful output of 30,000 lumens and a 360-degree viewing angle, this fishing light is perfect for both fresh and saltwater environments.

One of the standout features of the Green Blob fishing light is its self-weighted system, which eliminates the need for additional weights when deep dropping the light. The light is also incredibly easy to use, simply plug it into a normal household outlet and drop it into the water. The light also comes with a timer that includes a Dusk to Dawn photocell option, making it convenient and effortless to use.

In addition to its functionality, the Green Blob fishing light is also incredibly versatile. It can attract a wide range of fish species such as Snook, Tarpon, Squid, Shad, Bass, Crappie, Striper, and more. This makes it an excellent option for bait fish attracting, fish finding, and outdoor pond use.

The Green Blob LED fishing light is also highly durable, with a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours of continuous use. Unlike traditional halogen lights, this LED light is energy-efficient and will not overheat, making it safe to use for extended periods.

Overall, the Green Blob Outdoors Underwater Fishing Light is an excellent investment for anyone who wants to enhance their fishing experience. With its powerful output, versatile design, and durable construction, it is sure to attract a wide range of fish species and provide a memorable fishing experience.

Best Live Bait For Redfish FAQs

Can I use artificial lures instead of live bait for redfish fishing, and if so, what are some effective options?

Yes, artificial lures can be used for redfish fishing and they can be just as effective as live bait. Some popular options for redfish include soft plastics, topwater lures, and spoons. Soft plastics that mimic shrimp or mullet are a popular choice, as well as topwater lures that make a popping or walking action on the surface. Spoons can also be effective for redfish, especially when jigged or retrieved slowly along the bottom. It is important to match your lure size and color to the conditions and the prey that the redfish are feeding on. Additionally, consider the water depth and current when selecting your lure weight and presentation. Experiment with different lures and techniques to find what works best for the specific area and conditions you are fishing in.

How should live bait be rigged for optimal redfish fishing?

Live bait can be very effective for catching redfish, but it needs to be rigged properly for optimal results. The most common way to rig live bait for redfish is to use a Carolina rig. This involves a sliding sinker above a swivel, with a leader and hook attached to the other end of the swivel. The live bait is hooked through the lips or back, depending on its size and the type of hook being used. It's important to use a strong enough hook to handle the power of a redfish, but not so big that it interferes with the bait's movement. A circle hook is often a good choice, as it tends to hook the fish in the corner of the mouth, which makes for easier release. When fishing with live bait, it's important to keep an eye on the line and be ready to set the hook when the bait is taken.

What time of day is best for using live bait to catch redfish?

The best time of day for using live bait to catch redfish primarily depends on the tide and weather conditions. Generally, redfish prefer to feed during low light conditions such as dawn or dusk, when the water is cooler and there is less light to spook them. However, depending on the location and season, they can also be caught throughout the day.

During hot summer months, redfish tend to be more active during early morning and late evening when the water is cooler. Whereas, during the cooler months, they can be found feeding all day long.

It is important to consider the tide and weather conditions while planning a fishing trip. During incoming tides, redfish move towards the shoreline to feed on crabs, shrimp, and other baitfish, making it an ideal time to use live bait. Similarly, cloudy or overcast days can also be a good time to use live bait as they provide more cover for the fish to feed.

In conclusion, the best time of day for using live bait to catch redfish varies depending on the tide and weather conditions. It is always recommended to consult with local guides or experienced anglers to determine the best time and location for catching these elusive fish.

What types of live bait are best for catching redfish?

When it comes to catching redfish, anglers have found that live bait is the most effective method. The best live bait for redfish varies depending on the location and season, but some popular options include shrimp, crabs, mullet, and pinfish.

Shrimp is a great option for catching redfish in shallow waters, while crabs are best for deeper waters. Mullet and pinfish are excellent choices for catching redfish in inlets and passes.

It's essential to use fresh, lively bait to attract the attention of redfish. When selecting live bait, always choose the liveliest ones and keep them in a well-oxygenated bait bucket. In addition, it's essential to match the bait's size and color to the size of the redfish you're targeting.

In conclusion, when fishing for redfish, using live bait can increase your chances of success. Shrimp, crabs, mullet, and pinfish are some of the best live bait options for catching redfish, but it's important to select the right bait based on the location, season, and size of the fish you're targeting.

Where can I find live bait for redfish in my local area?

If you're looking for live bait for redfish in your local area, there are several options available to you depending on where you live. One of the most common places to find live bait is at bait and tackle shops located near the water. These shops typically carry a variety of live bait options such as shrimp, crabs, and minnows which are all great options for catching redfish.

Another option is to check with local marinas or boat rental companies as they may also carry live bait for sale. Additionally, you may want to consider contacting local fishing guides as they often have access to live bait and can provide you with valuable information about where you can find redfish in your area.

Lastly, you can also try searching online for local bait shops or fishing supply stores that may offer live bait for sale. Many of these stores also offer online ordering and delivery, making it easy to get the live bait you need without having to leave your home.

Overall, there are several options available to you when it comes to finding live bait for redfish in your local area. With a bit of research and some persistence, you should be able to find the right bait for your next fishing trip.

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