Redfish Wade Fishing FAQs & Mistakes feat “Wader Dave”
- By: Joseph Simonds
- on
Guide “Wader Dave” has been wade fishing for over 40 years.
Some years, he’s on the water more than 200 days.
In this episode, he explains what actually matters on a flat… and what doesn’t.
It’s not just about wading.
It’s about wind, tide, structure, positioning, and decision-making.
If you fish shallow water from a kayak, boat, or on foot, this one will sharpen how you think.
Check out the video below and get dialed in for spring flats season!
Key Takeaways
- Wind direction is one of the first things he checks.
- Shoreline orientation matters more than most people realize.
- Subtle depth changes can make a big difference on a flat.
- Mixed sand and grass bottom consistently holds fish.
- Casting parallel to structure keeps your lure in the strike zone longer.
- Your position should change as the tide rises or falls.
Mentioned Software:
Featured Guide:
Final Thoughts
Forty years on the water teaches you patterns.
Not shortcuts.
If you want fewer frustrating days and more intentional ones, this episode is worth your time.
Take one idea from it and apply it on your next trip.
IMPORTANT REMINDER
The 2 core benefits we promise to Insider Club members is to be able to find and catch fish easier than ever before while saving money on fishing equipment.
So I am including links to the quickest ways to achieve each:
1) Finding Fish System
2) Insider Club’s Group Discounts
Related categories:
STOP WASTING TIME ON THE WATER!
Do what the “SMART ANGLERS” are doing and join the Insider Club.
Here’s what you’ll receive today when you join:
- Weekly fishing reports and TRENDS revealing exactly where you should fish ever trip
- Weekly “spot dissection” videos that walk you through all the best spots in your area
- Exclusive fishing tips from the PROS you can’t find anywhere else
- Everything you need to start catching fish more consistently (regardless if you fish out of a boat, kayak, or land).
STOP WASTING TIME ON THE WATER!
Do what the “SMART ANGLERS” are doing and join the Insider Club.
Here’s what you’ll receive today when you join:
- Weekly fishing reports and TRENDS revealing exactly where you should fish every trip
- Weekly “spot dissection” videos that walk you through all the best spots in your area
- Exclusive fishing tips from the PROS you can’t find anywhere else
- Everything you need to start catching fish more consistently (regardless if you fish out of a boat, kayak, or land).



I’m up in the mid Atlantic and I surf and Kayak fish
How current is the contour information on smart spot
I’m pretty good at reading the water on the beach but I’m thinking that tool could be priceless if it timely
The structure can change overnight out there
mat try
Great discussion that inspires getting back out there and exploring some new water. Thanks Dave and Joe, always a pleasure.
Glad your enjoyed the podcast Buddy!
A lot of great information. Thanks for taking the time to help educate us. Enjoyed talking to you at the Tampa meetup also.
Thanks for taking the time to provide feedback Joe! Glad we had a chance to talk at the Meetup.
Great info. My worry has never been sharks or rays it’s been Gators! Here in East Central FL (Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge) I have had 10′ plus gators come on shore and come at me. This for the most part this keeps me out of the water.
I’m with you when it comes to gators! They’re spooky.
Thanks for the great tips and I am looking forward to Scott and Dave discussing bait caster vs. spinning reels.
Hope the tips help you find more fish on the end of your line. I’m looking forward to the discussion with Scott as well.
Great info. I was out with you twice and learned a lot, And had fun to boot.
Thanks Thomas! Hope you’re doing well and appreciate the feedback.
Great tips, Thanks
Thanks for listening to the podcast and your feedback David.
Wade fishing is an interesting art,just like trout fishing in a river.very educational.always practice safety.watch this video and take notes.
Thanks for listening Michael.
Dave is the man!
You’re very kind Jamie!