This 3-Rod Cut Bait Setup is DESTROYING Big Redfish (Guide Secret)

Most anglers fishing cut bait simply spread out a few rods and wait.

World-record holder Captain Peter Deeks takes a different approach.

His three-rod technique gives each bait a specific job, and the way he combines that spread with wind and current may completely change how you approach a mangrove shoreline.

There’s also one bite most anglers consider a nuisance that he actually wants to see.

Watch the video below to see exactly how Capt Peter positions his three rods, why he chooses the windy shoreline, and what happens when he puts the complete system to the test.

Where Should You Fish Cut Bait For Redfish?

Use Smart Fishing Spots to find windblown shorelines where moving water can carry your bait’s scent toward likely redfish holding zones.

Before launching, check the wind and tide. Then use the satellite imagery, seagrass and oyster layers, and 1-foot depth contours to look for:

• Mangrove shorelines exposed to the wind
• Sandy potholes surrounded by grass
• Oyster edges and depth changes
• Docks, fallen trees, points, and current funnels

Save several promising areas as waypoints rather than relying on a single spot.

Once you arrive, position yourself with the wind and current at your back. Look for moving water and signs of life, such as large mullet jumping nearby.

During higher water, skip your bait beneath overhanging mangroves. On grass flats, place it in a sandy pothole where redfish can both smell and see it.

If there’s no wind or current and the fish aren’t moving, switch to a live bait or artificial lure that allows you to cover more water.

What Is The Best Cut Bait And Rig For Redfish?

Fresh, oily bait is best. Mullet, ladyfish, and blue crab are all excellent options.

Hook the bait through the thinner end, close to the edge, and leave the circle hook exposed. This helps it cast farther, skip accurately, and hook fish cleanly.

A 4/0 circle hook is a good starting point for most redfish.

Around mangroves or heavy structure, use strong tackle:

• 7-foot-6-inch medium-action rod like our Slam Stick Medium
• 50-pound braided line
• 50-pound leader

On open flats, you can drop to 15- or 20-pound line for longer casts.

Always check your local bait and redfish regulations before fishing.

How Does The 3-Rod Cut Bait Setup Work?

Cast one unweighted bait down the middle. Then place a lightly weighted bait on either side to keep the spread separated:

Weighted bait – Unweighted bait – Weighted bait

In heavy wind or current, approximately a 1/2-ounce weight on each outside rig is usually enough.

Watch the rod tips closely. A catfish often makes the tip dance and stop, while a redfish typically loads the rod and swims away.

When that happens, pick up the rod and steadily reel until the circle hook comes tight. Don’t use a hard hookset.

And don’t be too quick to retrieve a bait when a catfish starts picking at it. That commotion releases scent and food particles that can attract a larger redfish.

Final Thoughts

Cut bait fishing doesn’t need to be complicated.

Use fresh bait, find moving water, cast where redfish can easily locate the bait, and spread your rods across the strike zone.

Then sit back, relax, and wait for one to bend over.