Chasing Redfish During the South Carolina Mullet Run

Early Morning Magic

The early morning hours are prime time for Redfish action during the mullet run. As the sun rises, Redfish move into shallow waters, such as tidal flats, marsh creeks, shorelines and jetties to ambush baitfish. The cooler water temperatures make them more active and less wary.

During this time, casting near schools of mullet with live bait or artificial lures can yield aggressive strikes. Topwater lures like plugs and walk-the-dog baits also work well in the calm morning water, mimicking a distressed mullet trying to escape. If you can get out on the water just before dawn and fish the first few hours of daylight, you'll often find Redfish feeding heavily.

Late Afternoon Frenzy

As the day winds down and the sun starts to set, the Redfish activity picks back up. The late afternoon is another perfect opportunity to target them, especially as temperatures begin to cool and the water comes alive with feeding activity.

In the late afternoon, focus on areas with mullet schools near shorelines, inlets, and estuaries. A popping cork rig with live mullet can be particularly effective during this time. Redfish, hungry from the day's heat, become more aggressive as they prepare for the evening feed. If you're targeting larger bull Redfish, the hours leading up to sunset often provide the best chance for a hook-up.

Tides Matter

Tide changes play a pivotal role in the movement of mullet and Redfish. On a rising tide, mullet will push into the shallow waters, drawing Redfish into more accessible areas for anglers. Conversely, as the tide falls, Redfish are drawn back into deeper channels where they'll continue to ambush passing bait. The key takeaway: fish around the tidal shifts to give yourself the best shot at intercepting feeding Redfish.

Water Conditions

Clear water gives Redfish the advantage when it comes to ambushing prey, so you want to time your fishing sessions around good water visibility. Redfish use both sight and sound to detect mullet, and during the mullet run, they'll track the schools with precision.

RODS

A medium-heavy to heavy action rod in the 7- to 8-foot range is ideal for casting far and fighting hard-charging Redfish. The extra length provides the leverage needed to reel in these strong fish, especially in areas with current. Look for rods with enough backbone to handle a tough fight, yet sensitive enough to feel the subtle takes. Brands like St. Croix and Shimano offer excellent inshore rods suited for this purpose.

REELS

Pair your rod with a high-quality spinning reel that can stand up to the Redfish's aggressive runs. A size 300 to 5000 reel works well, with a smooth drag system to handle big fish. Some of our top picks include the Penn Battle IV, Shimano Nasci FC, and Daiwa BG MQ, all of which offer durability, smooth performance, and the power needed for inshore Redfish action.

LINE

For line, braided is your best bet when fishing for Redfish during the mullet run. Braided line offers high strength and low diameter, perfect for long casts and dealing with aggressive runs. Opt for a 15- to 30-lb test braid, which provides plenty of strength while still being thin enough for smooth casting. Braided line also cuts through the water better, making it easier to feel bites and fight fish in the current.

LEADER

Redfish have tough mouths and tend to hang around oyster beds, rocks, and other structures, so you'll need a strong leader. Fluorocarbon is the go-to material for its abrasion resistance and low visibility in the water. A 20- to 40-lb fluorocarbon leader is ideal, providing the toughness needed to withstand Redfish's sharp gills and abrasive environments without spooking them.

TERMINAL TACKLE

When it comes to hooks, rigs, and weights, circle hooks are highly recommended for Redfish. A 3/0 to 5/0 circle hook is perfect for live bait presentations. Use egg sinkers or split shots for weighing down your rigs, allowing the bait to swim naturally. You’ll also want to keep a variety of popping corks in your tackle box. These help create noise and movement in the water, drawing Redfish toward your bait, especially when using live finger mullet.

LURES

While live mullet is the top bait choice during the mullet run, artificial lures can be just as effective if you choose the right ones. Topwater plugs, soft plastic swimbaits, and jerkbaits that mimic mullet are excellent options. The Z-Man DieZel MinnowZ, Rapala Skitter Walk, and Heddon Super Spook Jr. are some proven winners for targeting Redfish. Use natural colors that resemble the mullet, and work them with a moderate retrieve to mimic an injured or fleeing baitfish.

TACKLE ACCESSORIES

Don’t forget the essential tools and accessories to make your fishing trip smoother. A pair of strong pliers for hook removal, a landing net to help bring in big fish, and a fish gripper to safely handle Redfish without harming them are must-haves. Tackle bags or waterproof gear boxes help keep everything organized and protected from the elements. Brands like Plano and YETI offer excellent storage solutions for inshore fishing trips.

FISHING APPAREL

Comfort and protection from the elements are key when spending long hours on the water. Lightweight, moisture-wicking shirts with UV protection are essential for staying cool and protected from the sun. A good fishing hat, polarized sunglasses to reduce glare, and a pair of water-resistant shoes or boots will round out your gear. Brands like Columbia, Simms, and AFTCO offer high-quality fishing apparel designed for comfort and performance.

Follow the Bait

Redfish are rarely far from the mullet schools. One of the best tactics is to simply follow the mullet and cast right into the heart of the school. Use a popping cork rig with live mullet to mimic the sound and appearance of struggling baitfish. The commotion will draw in nearby Redfish looking for an easy meal.

Work Shorelines & Inlets

During the mullet run, Redfish are often found cruising the edges of shorelines, inlets, and river mouths. These areas serve as natural funnels for baitfish, making them prime ambush spots. Look for areas where the mullet schools are thick and cast your bait into the path of the school.

Retrieve Speed

The retrieve speed is critical when using artificial lures. Redfish are opportunistic feeders, and they’ll pounce on a lure that mimics the erratic behavior of injured prey. Try a moderate to slow retrieve with the occasional pause to let the lure sink. The sudden change in speed and direction can trigger aggressive strikes from Redfish.