Pier Fishing for Red Drum: Complete Guide
Sciaenops ocellatus
Red drum, commonly known as redfish, are one of the most popular inshore game fish along the Gulf and South Atlantic coasts. Recognizable by the distinctive black spot near the base of the tail, redfish are powerful fighters that thrill anglers of every skill level. They inhabit shallow flats, marshes, jetties, and the pilings beneath fishing piers, making them an ideal target for pier anglers. Redfish feed aggressively on crustaceans, shrimp, crabs, and small baitfish, which means a wide variety of natural and artificial baits will draw strikes. Juvenile redfish, often called puppy drum, school in large numbers around pier structures during summer and fall, providing fast action on light tackle. Larger bull reds migrate along the coast during the fall spawning run, and pier anglers who position themselves in passes and inlets can intercept these trophy fish as they move through. Redfish populations have rebounded dramatically since conservation measures were put in place in the 1980s, and catch-and-release practices have helped maintain healthy stocks across their range. Whether you are soaking a chunk of cut mullet on the bottom or working a gold spoon through the current, redfish deliver some of the most exciting pier fishing action available anywhere in the country.
Quick Facts
Best States for Red Drum
Red Drum are most commonly caught from piers in the following states. Click a state to browse all public fishing piers with free GPS coordinates and directions.
Best Bait & Tackle
Medium-heavy spinning rod, 7 ft, with 20-30 lb braided line and fluorocarbon leader. Use a Carolina rig with circle hooks for bottom fishing or a popping cork rig for suspending live bait.
Top Baits
- ✔Live shrimp
- ✔Cut mullet
- ✔Blue crab
- ✔Gold spoons
- ✔Soft plastic jigs
Shop pier fishing tackle on Amazon — Live shrimp | Rod & Reel Combos
Terminal Tackle for Red Drum
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Circle Hooks (Variety Pack)
Required for many saltwater species. Self-setting and safer for catch-and-release.
★ Our Pick — View on AmazonPyramid Sinkers (Assorted)
Hold bottom in current and surf. Assorted weights from 1 oz to 6 oz for any pier condition.
★ Our Pick — View on AmazonFluorocarbon Leader
Nearly invisible underwater. Use it when line-shy fish like sheepshead and pompano are finicky.
★ Our Pick — View on AmazonFish Stringer
Keep your catch alive in the water. Longer runs than a bucket and won't overcrowd the fish.
★ Our Pick — View on AmazonFillet Knife
Flexible blade, non-slip grip. The difference between a clean fillet and a mangled one.
★ Our Pick — View on AmazonPro Tips for Catching Red Drum from a Pier
Fish the last two hours of incoming tide when redfish push onto shallow structure around pier pilings.
Use circle hooks to improve hookup rates and make catch-and-release easier on the fish.
During the fall bull red run, position yourself at the end of the pier near deeper channels and passes.
Gold and copper spoons are deadly when redfish are feeding on schools of mullet around the pier.
Pay attention to birds diving and baitfish scattering near the pier — redfish are often right below the surface activity.