Finesse Bait Fishing: A Myth or a Must for Redfish Anglers?

If you're like me and enjoy targeting decent size redfish in the lovely brown waters of Charleston, I've got some insights to share that might spark your interest. Let's talk about a fishing approach that's close to my heart and has brought me success on the water – using lightweight bottom rigs with just the right touch of finesse.

When it comes to landing redfish weighing in around 6- 12 lbs and measuring up to 30 inches, I've found that simplicity is key. I'm not a fan of heavy rigs and deep waters – they just don't suit my style. That's why I prefer to keep things light and nimble, especially when it comes to my rig setup.

One thing I've noticed is that getting the weight placement right can make a world of difference. By using large split shots positioned just a few inches above the hook, I've been able to entice redfish without causing them unnecessary harm. It's all about striking that perfect balance – enough weight to trigger a bite response, but not too much that it hinders the hook placement.

For me, it's not just about catching fish; it's about doing so responsibly and ethically. That's why I aim to avoid gut hooking redfish whenever possible. By keeping my weight close to the hook, I've found that the chances of a clean hook-up in the corner of the fish's mouth are greatly increased. It's a win-win situation for both me and the fish. (Photo Example Below)

Timing plays a crucial role in my fishing. I've discovered that the first and second hour of a low or high tide often yield the best results. During these gentle current movements, my lightweight rig shines, allowing me to present my bait effectively and attract redfish with finesse.

While some people may opt for heavy gear and tackle in heavy currents, I prefer to take a different approach. I believe that using as little weight as possible and keeping it close to the hook is the way to go. It's all about finesse and adaptability – qualities that have served me well in my pursuit of slot size redfish.

So to those who want to get into the productive game of finesse bait fishing I encourage you to consider this techniques on your next trip. Embrace the simplicity, finesse, and personal touch that comes with using a lightweight bottom rig when targeting slot size redfish in Charleston. Trust me, the results may just surprise you. We’ll talk about what rods work best on the next write up so stay tuned!

Tight lines and happy fishing, everyone!

As you can see the split shot is about 3 inches above the hook.