If you’re serious about targeting trophy-sized bull redfish, November is when you need to be on the water. As someone who’s spent decades fishing Louisiana’s coastal waters, I can tell you that fall is when the big boys move shallow, and November is the absolute sweet spot.

By November, bull redfish have recovered from the stress of summer heat and are in an aggressive feeding mode. They’ve spent the previous months adjusting to rising water temperatures, but as conditions cool down, their metabolism shifts into overdrive. These fish are hungry, and they’re not particularly picky about what they eat. This aggressive feeding behavior translates into more strikes, better hook-ups, and a higher percentage of fish brought to the boat.

November offers some of the most stable water conditions Louisiana has to offer. The oppressive summer heat has passed, and we’re not yet dealing with winter’s extreme cold-water patterns. Water temperatures typically hover in the 60s and low 70s—an ideal range for bull redfish activity. The weather is more predictable too, meaning fewer days lost to dangerous conditions and more consistent opportunities to get out and fish.

One of the most important reasons November is prime season has everything to do with the red drum’s spawning cycle. As fall progresses, larger redfish begin congregating in shallow, nearshore waters as a precursor to their breeding season. These aren’t just any redfish—these are the massive, bronze-colored bulls that every serious angler dreams about. Watching them move into accessible shallow water is like Christmas morning for a redfish guide.

November’s tidal patterns are ideal for sight-casting and structure fishing. The water clarity typically improves, giving you better chances to spot feeding bulls in shallow areas. Combined with moderate tidal swings, November provides multiple strong periods throughout the day when these fish are actively hunting in the shallows where your fly or lure can reach them.

Unlike December and January, November still offers a decent window of daylight for fishing. You’re not fighting the short days just yet, which means more productive hours on the water. Starting early morning and working through mid-afternoon still gives you solid opportunities without the grueling predawn starts that winter fishing demands.

The mild November weather is simply unbeatable. You’re comfortable in a light jacket or fleece, not bundled up in heavy gear or sweating through summer clothes. This means better casting comfort, fewer distractions, and the ability to focus entirely on what matters—landing that bull redfish.

If you’re ready to experience November’s world-class bull redfish fishing, I’d love to have you on the water. My charters are tailored to pursue these trophy fish using sight-casting techniques in the shallow coastal waters where the biggest bulls congregate this time of year. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or ready to experience your first bull redfish experience, November is the month to make it happen.

The window doesn’t stay open forever. By December, water temperatures drop further and the fish’s behavior changes. November represents that perfect intersection of aggressive feeding, optimal conditions, and accessible shallow-water hunting grounds.

Don’t miss it. Book your November charter with me and experience why this month stands out as prime season for landing a bull redfish that’ll be the talk of the season.

Captain Gregg Arnold
Louisiana Bull Redfish Charters
Pursuing trophy redfish in Louisiana’s premier coastal waters

Ready to book your November adventure? Get in touch today.