
Last Updated on October 25, 2024 by Eric Bonneman
Have you ever felt the tug of a bull redfish on your line? It’s like you’re holding a rope tied to a truck, and it’ll wake you up real quick. These redfish don’t mess around, and if you’re looking for some of the best action on the water, the Gulf Coast—especially Gulfport, MS—is the place to be in Fall.
Mississippi and Louisiana waters are legendary for redfish, and for good reason. But Gulfport’s fishing charters tend to be the ones where these powerful reds show up in force, especially in the autumn months when they’re spawning. Come fall—October, November—these big reds show up in numbers. They’re getting ready to spawn, which means they’re closer to shore and easier to target.
Family Redfish Fishing Charters
Some of these reds are big and strong, but don’t worry—whether you’re an experienced fisherman or bringing the whole crew along to learn how to fish, this is the kind of fishing trip where everyone can have a good time.
For a Missisippi/Louisiana redfish guide, there’s nothing like seeing a kid’s face light up when they hook into one of these big boys. Can they reel in a bull red? Technically, yes—but it’s gonna be a serious team effort. Bull redfish in Gulfport can weigh anywhere from 20 to 40 pounds or more, and they’re not shy about giving your arms a workout. For most kids, reeling one in solo would be a pretty big ask. They’ll need some help from an adult to handle the rod, keep the tension right, and bring that beast to the boat.
That said, the excitement of hooking into a big redfish is something kids love, and with a little assistance, they can still experience the thrill of the fight. Picture this: the kid holds the rod, you or the guide help manage the reel, and together, you work that fish in. By the time the redfish surfaces, it’s a moment that’ll have the whole family cheering. It’s a memory that’ll stick with them, and you’ll have the pictures to prove it!
Inshore Fishing in Fall (Gulfport, MS)
Fall is the time when fishing on the Mississippi coast just lines up—shorter boat rides, more fish in the marshes—and a break from the heat that’ll make you want to stay out there even longer than you would in the summer.
From Fall heading into Winter, the waters around Gulfport serve up redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and sheepshead. You’ll even run into drum and tripletail if you’re lucky.
This time of year, those redfish and speckled trout start crowding into the bay systems and marshes. They’re chasing the baitfish that get pulled in from the Gulf. These fish are opportunistic feeders, meaning they’ll go where the food is easiest to catch.
This time of year, that’s often in shallower waters where the bait is congregating. For anglers, that means shorter boat rides and more time spent fishing in calmer, protected areas.
That makes for easier fishing, and you don’t have to worry much about “rough seas” or getting windblown. Our local bays and marshes act like a shelter, so even if the Gulf’s choppy, you’ve got some great fishing spots.
Mississippi’s coast stays pretty mild, with average temps in the 60s and 70s, so it’s still comfortable for a day on the water. Plus, the cooler temps actually work in your favor when it comes to fishing. Fish are cold-blooded, meaning they’re more active in moderate temperatures. This makes them more likely to chase bait and strike at lures than during the summer months.
The Gulfport Redfish Run
If you’re fishing in Gulfport during the redfish run (late September through November) be prepared. A redfish can live for over 40 years, and in that time, they can grow to be over 40 inches long. That’s a lot of years for them to perfect their game.
Redfish are built tough, with that distinctive spot near their tail which helps them trick predators (making them think it’s their head).
When you’ve got one on the line, it’s a true test of your patience, strength, and how well you tied those knots. You’ve got to hold your ground because they’ll use every inch of their strength to make you work for it.
If you want to experience this firsthand, Legends of the Lower Marsh is the go-to Gulfport fishing guide service. Captain Mark Wright and his crew provide everything from inshore fishing trips to family-friendly adventures that make sure everyone gets in on the action. Whether you’re an experienced sport fisherman or just bringing the family along for a fun day on the water, we know where the monster redfish are—and how to get you on them.
Click here to book your trip with Legends of the Lower Marsh and enjoy the best Fall fishing in Gulfport!