Redfish (Red Drum) can be one of the toughest fish to catch on a fly. Knowing what they eat and having the right fly can make catching them much easier. On the Gulf Coast, there are four prey that Redfish like best. Crabs, Croker, Pinfish, and Shrimp.

Redfish love crabs! And, having fished on the Gulf Coast for more than 25 years, I have found that one of the best crab fly patterns is a Richard's Rattling Crab. Richard Schmit is a guide on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. He has been on ESPN Outdoors and he has guided for Mark Sosin. Richard made the Rattling Crab pattern for catching large Redfish. One of the most important components of the fly is the rattle. It helps the fish hone in on the fly. The Richard's Rattling Crab comes in four colors, Brown, Tan, Olive, and Blue/Green.

This 28 pound Redfish was caught using a Brown Richard's Rattling Crab.

Another Crab pattern that has been responsible for catching big Redfish is the Tampa Redfish Fly. The Gold and Copper Mylar make it a very attractive fly to larger Redfish.

Pinfish: Another favorite prey of Redfish is the Pinfish. They are an abundant source of food and in deeper water, Redfish actively hunt them. Two of the best flies for matching the Pinfish are the Polarflash Clouser and the Lefty's Deceiver.

Croker: Redfish Love Gold. The Gold color of the Croker is irresistable to Big Reds. Many fisherman, who use conventional tackle, know that if your hunting Redfish you better have a Gold Spoon in the tackle box. One of the best flies for matching the Croker is the Gold Polarflash Clouser. Tied with Gold everything, Hook, Thread, and Eyes.

Shrimp: Shrimp are an abundant source of food for many fish including Redfish. There are many Shrimp Fly patterns and selecting one can be a difficult decision. I have found that the Borski's Fur Shrimp, the Swimming Shrimp, the Flex Shrimp, and the Rattling Flex Shrimp are some of the best.

Although there are many fly patterns to choose from and many of them will catch Redfish. These are among the best.

Other flies that do well are the Clouser Minnow, Lefty's Deceiver, Crazy Charlie, Yarn Crabs, and Squid.