Get ready to reel in some real action on our Port Aransas fishing charters. We're not talking about your average day on the water – this is the kind of trip that'll have you hooked from start to finish. Our bay boat is your ticket to the hottest spots around, from the bustling rigs to the calm flats and rocky hideouts where the big ones lurk. Whether you're itching to get your feet wet with some wade fishing or you're after those secret back flats that most boats can't touch, we've got you covered.
Buckle up for six hours of non-stop fishing or until you hit your limit – whichever comes first. We're all about maximizing your time on the water, so we'll keep at it as long as the fish are biting. Our trips are perfect for a pair of anglers, but if you've got a bigger crew, no worries. We can accommodate extra folks for just $100 a head. It's all about getting you on the fish and making sure you have a blast doing it.
On our charters, we mix it up to keep the fish guessing and the action hot. We'll hit the rigs where structure-loving fish hang out, then cruise to the flats for some sight casting action. If you're up for it, we'll hop out for some wade fishing – there's nothing like feeling the water around your legs as you work a lure. Our secret weapon? Access to those skinny back flats where the big boys hide. Most boats can't get there, but we can, giving you a shot at some truly trophy-worthy catches.
"I had a great fishing trip with Captain Brian. That air boat was an incredible experience, what a great boat. Big comfortable chairs, and a great fishing platform. Great conversation and technical knowledge of the entire area. It was a quick trip for me but we chased Reds around the bay. Highly recommend Captain Brian!" - David
Southern Flounder: These flat masters are the ninjas of the seafloor. They're masters of camouflage, blending in so well you might step on one before you see it. But spot one, and you're in for a treat. They put up a solid fight and make for some of the best eating around. Fall is prime time for flounder, when they start their migration to deeper waters. It's a rush when you feel that distinctive thump on your line and know you've got a flatfish on the hook.
Black Drum: Don't let their looks fool you – these big, ugly bruisers are a blast to catch. They grow to monster sizes, with some old-timers pushing 40 pounds or more. Black drum are year-round residents, but spring is when they really shine. That's when they school up to spawn, and you can sometimes hear them making a deep, drumming sound underwater. They're not the prettiest fish in the sea, but they'll test your gear and your skills.
Sea Trout: Also known as speckled trout, these guys are the bread and butter of inshore fishing. They're aggressive feeders and will hit just about any lure you throw their way. Sea trout are most active in the cooler months, from fall through spring. There's nothing quite like the excitement of working a topwater lure at dawn and seeing a big trout explode on it. They're also fantastic on the dinner table, making them a favorite for catch-and-cook enthusiasts.
Redfish: Ah, the mighty red drum – the fish that put Texas inshore fishing on the map. These copper-colored beauties are known for their distinctive spot near the tail and their bull-dog fighting style. Redfish can be caught year-round, but fall is when things really heat up. That's when the big bulls move into the shallows, creating the legendary "redfish runs" that anglers dream about. Sight-casting to a tailing red in skinny water is about as good as it gets in the fishing world.
Folks, let me tell you – there's a reason why our Port Aransas fishing charters are booked solid most of the year. It's not just about the fish (though we've got plenty of those). It's about the whole package. You're out there on our tricked-out bay boat, feeling the salt spray on your face, watching the sun come up over the Texas coast. One minute you're drifting the flats, the next you're tucked up against an oil rig, pulling in fish after fish.
And let's talk about that airboat for a second. It's not just a way to get around – it's your golden ticket to fishing spots that most folks only dream about. We can scoot right over those super shallow areas where the big fish love to hide. It's like having a backstage pass to nature's own private fishing hole.
But what really sets us apart? It's the local know-how. We're not just guides, we're part of the Port A fishing community. We know every nook and cranny of these waters, and we've got the stories to prove it. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, we'll make sure you're onto fish and having the time of your life.
This season's been on fire, folks. We've been seeing some monster reds cruising the flats – I'm talking about fish pushing 40 inches. The trout bite has been insane, especially around the grass beds early in the morning. And don't even get me started on the flounder – we've had days where we've limited out before lunch.
But it's not just about the size or the numbers. It's about those perfect moments on the water. Like when a school of reds blows up on your topwater lure, or when you're wading knee-deep and a big trout inhales your soft plastic right at your feet. Those are the memories that'll keep you coming back year after year.
Alright, let's cut to the chase. If you're ready for some of the best inshore fishing Texas has to offer, it's time to lock in your date. Our Port Aransas fishing charters fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Whether you're looking to put some fish in the cooler or just want to experience the thrill of battling a big red on light tackle, we've got you covered.
Remember, we're not just selling a fishing trip – we're offering a front-row seat to the incredible marine life and coastal beauty of Port Aransas. So grab your sunscreen, your favorite lucky hat, and let's hit the water. The fish are waiting, and trust me, you don't want to miss out on this action. Book now, and get ready for a fishing adventure you'll be bragging about for years to come. See you on the boat!
March 16, 2024
Black Drum are the heavyweight champions of Port Aransas waters. These cousins of the redfish can grow massive - we're talking 5 to 30 pounds on average, with some topping 90 pounds! You'll find them in brackish waters, hanging around oyster beds and mudflats. Spring is the best time to target Black Drum when they school up for spawning. They make a distinctive croaking sound, which is pretty cool to hear underwater. Smaller ones under 15 pounds are great eating, with a sweet, mild flavor. These fish are bottom feeders, so use natural baits like crab, clams, or shrimp. A simple bottom rig with just enough weight to hold in the current works well. Here's a pro tip: if you're after the big ones, use heavier tackle and be prepared for a workout. They may not make long runs, but their sheer power can be a real challenge.
Redfish are a Port Aransas staple, known for their coppery color and black spot near the tail. Most "slot" reds run 20-28 inches, but they can grow much larger offshore. You'll find them in shallow flats, around oyster reefs, and near structure in 1-4 feet of water. These fish are year-round targets, but fall is especially good as they school up. Anglers love redfish for their hard-fighting nature and excellent table fare. The shallow water sight-fishing opportunities are a huge draw too. For redfish, try topwater lures early morning or live bait like mullet or crab. A local trick: look for "tailing" reds in very shallow water, where their backs and tails break the surface as they feed. Approach quietly and make an accurate cast - it's one of the most exciting ways to catch these bruisers.
Sea Trout, also called Speckled Trout, are a favorite target in Port Aransas. These silvery fish usually run 14 to 24 inches and put up a great fight on light tackle. Look for them around grass flats, shallow bays, and near structures like oyster reefs. They're most active in cooler months, especially fall and spring. Sea Trout are known for their delicate, flaky white meat that's a hit on dinner tables. Anglers love chasing them for their willingness to strike lures and the exciting topwater action they provide. To catch Sea Trout, try using soft plastics, topwater plugs, or live shrimp under a popping cork. Early mornings and evenings are prime times. Here's a local secret: on calm days, look for subtle surface disturbances - that's often trout feeding on bait. Cast beyond the ripples and work your lure through the area for best results.
Southern Flounder are a unique catch around Port Aransas. These flatfish typically reach 15-18 inches but can grow up to 33 inches long. You'll find them camouflaged on sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. They're ambush predators, lying in wait for smaller fish and crustaceans. Fall is prime time for flounder as they move to deeper waters to spawn. Anglers love targeting them for their mild, sweet flavor and the challenge of hooking these masters of disguise. They put up a good fight too, especially the bigger ones. To land a flounder, try drifting or still fishing near the bottom. Live bait like mullet or shrimp works great, but artificial lures can be effective too. Here's a local tip: use a slow retrieve and let your bait bump along the bottom - that's when flounder are most likely to strike. Keep your line tight, as they have soft mouths and can easily spit the hook.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 35
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 150
I had a great fishing trip with Captain Brian. That air boat was an incredible experience, what a great boat. Big comfortable chairs, and a great fishing platform. Great conversation and technical knowledge of the entire area. It was a quick trip for me but we chased Reds around the bay. Highly recommend Captain Brian!