September provides anglers with a variety of options for targeting slot and oversized red drum.

Story and Photography by Nate Skinner

The ninth month of the year can seemingly put Texas coastal anglers in somewhat of a limbo.  It’s a transitional month that can feel every bit like summer.  On the other hand, September has the potential to cool off early. This is all dependent on the arrival and strength of the first fall frontal systems.  Either way, these variables are enough to make any mindful angler’s head spin.

Luckily there is some consistency that can be expected from one inshore species — red drum.  From the marshes and flats along estuarine shorelines to the channels, passes and jetties that connect coastal bays with the Gulf of Mexico redfish can be found aggressively feeding almost anywhere.  This is due to their biological life cycle, and it’s a pattern that you can hang your hat on.

According to information from TPWD biologists, the red drum is a rapidly growing species and has been known to grow to 11 inches in length in its first year of life.  A two year old fish is typically between 17 – 22 inches, weighing in at about three and a half pounds.  A three year old red is could be as long as 24 inches and can weigh upwards of six to eight pounds