Destin-Fort Walton Beach, in collaboration with the Coastal Conservation Association Florida (CCA), successfully released 25,000 juvenile redfish into Cinco Bayou on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025.
This multi-year collaborative effort seeks to address the issue of declining redfish populations across Northwest Florida fisheries and enhance the population with stocking initiatives for one of Florida’s most popular inshore fish species.
“We appreciate this continued partnership with CCA Florida to promote the long-term health of our bay and bayous,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon. “While this species is popular among our local anglers, it will also enhance area habitats and protect numerous species that add to the overall wellness of a robust ecosystem.”
The redfish were about two to four inches in length and can take about three years to reach 26-inches in length. Redfish, also known as red drum, spottail, red bass, and channel bass can live up to 40 years.
"Returning to Choctawhatchee Bay for a third redfish release is a proud moment for our organization,” CCA Florida Executive Director Brian Gorski said. “Today's release marks another step forward in our commitment to sustaining Florida’s marine resources, and we are grateful for our continued partnership with Okaloosa County to make this event possible.”
