FLOUNDER AND REDFISH STUDIES UNCOVER UNEXPECTED TRENDS
The Gulf Coast waters continue to surprise us with new insights into the behavior of our favorite inshore species. Recent research conducted by scientists at the University of South Alabama (USA) is shedding light on migration and spawning habits for southern flounder, speckled trout, red drum, and tripletail—and some of the findings challenge long-held assumptions.
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Flounder Migration: A Deeper Understanding
One of the biggest revelations from these studies is that a significant portion of the flounder population remains offshore, contradicting previous beliefs that they primarily inhabit inshore waters. This was confirmed through two methods—chemical analysis of flounder ear bones and tracking data from tagged fish.
For years, spearfishermen along the Orange Beach and Gulf Shores coast have reported sightings of flounder offshore. Now, with scientific evidence backing up these claims, we have a clearer picture of their lifecycle. This discovery may explain why flounder populations have experienced recruitment success despite past population declines—a silver lining for those concerned about flounder sustainability.
Adding to this, research suggests that the Mobile-Tensaw Delta plays a crucial role in flounder recruitment. The presence of grass beds in the Delta appears to have a direct impact on the number of juvenile flounder, emphasizing the importance of this vast wetland as a nursery habitat.
Regulation Changes and Their Impact on Flounder Recovery
In 2019, the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) took a proactive approach to protecting flounder stocks. The daily bag limit was reduced to five fish per angler, and a November harvest ban was put in place to protect spawning flounder as they migrated offshore.
Looking at where we stand today, these regulatory measures seem to have had a positive impact. While the long-term sustainability of the flounder fishery remains a work in progress, the increase in juvenile flounder sightings is an encouraging sign.
Redfish Movement: A Multi-State Connection
Another exciting development is the tracking of large bull redfish (red drum over 26 inches) through acoustic tagging. Researchers have discovered that some Alabama-tagged redfish travel to Louisiana before returning—a strong indicator that Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana share a connected spawning population.
As recreational fishing pressure continues to rise, ADCNR is evaluating possible changes to redfish regulations. One proposed adjustment could involve eliminating the current exemption that allows anglers to keep one redfish over 26 inches per day. The goal would be to protect the larger breeding fish that sustain future populations.
With Alabama saltwater fishing license sales growing from 140,000 in 2019 to over 214,000 in 2023, it’s clear that more anglers are hitting the water than ever before. Keeping our redfish population strong will require continued conservation efforts.
Sheepshead and Tripletail: What’s Next?
While tripletail and sheepshead populations remain stable, researchers are gathering data to better understand their life cycles. Tripletail has become increasingly popular among inshore anglers, and scientists want to ensure the population remains healthy.
One potential regulatory change being considered is a reduction in the sheepshead bag limit from 10 fish to 8 fish per angler per day. While this may seem like a small adjustment, these incremental conservation steps help ensure that Alabama’s fisheries remain strong for years to come.
“We’re blessed to have strong fish stocks in Alabama,” Bannon said. “By staying ahead of potential issues, we can keep our fisheries healthy for the future.”
What This Means for Gulf Coast Anglers
For those of us who live and fish along the Gulf Coast, these findings underscore the importance of sustainable fishing practices. Whether you’re chasing flounder, redfish, speckled trout, or tripletail, understanding their behavior and supporting conservation efforts ensures that future generations can enjoy the same incredible fishery we have today.
Source: This article is based on research and reporting originally published by David Rainer and the OBA Staff on February 19, 2025. Read the full article at OBA Website.
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