A Load of Bull Reds

Twice a year mature, breeding-age red drum migrate along the beaches and sounds of the Southeast coast. In the fall, as water temps drop, they move offshore to reefs, wrecks, and ledges to spawn. Then as the spring waters warm into the mid-60s they move back inshore along the same beach sloughs and sound channels. That means that right now is a great time to hit the surf and soak a live bait. In fact a couple of the guys over at the Pier and Surf forums got into the big bulls recently. Take a look at these big drum:




No fancy rigging needed here. Just a long, heavy rod, a sliding-weight rig, and a hook. Circle hooks are the best choice, but really any hook will do. These guys were using live whiting, but live or cut mullet and menhaden will work, too. I prefer to use a short, heavy shock leader of 80-100 pound connected to a lighter line, such as #25 test.

My favorite rod and reel setup is the Ocean Master. I use it to cast 5-8 ounces plus bait out beyond the breakers where the bulls run. It's probably the most affordable high-quality surf setup on the market.

The run will continue until the water temps hit the lower 70s, so right now is the best time to hit the surf.