Expert Port Aransas Inshore Fishing | Aggie Guide

Redfish and Trout: Port A's Inshore Gems

Hey there, anglers! Ready to wet a line in some of the best inshore waters Texas has to offer? Captain Brian's got you covered with this full-day trip out of Port Aransas. Whether you're a first-timer or bringing the whole family along, this is your chance to get up close and personal with two of our local favorites: redfish and sea trout. We'll spend a solid 7 hours on the water, giving you plenty of time to learn the ropes and hopefully land a few beauties. The boat launches at the crack of dawn from Cove Park in Ingleside, so grab your coffee and let's hit the flats!

What to Expect on the Water

This trip is all about getting you comfortable with inshore fishing, Texas-style. We'll cruise the shallow flats, poke around calm bays, and work some prime shoreline structure. Captain Brian's got years of experience under his belt, and he'll be right there showing you how to cast, bait up, and reel in your catch. Don't sweat it if you've never held a rod before – that's what we're here for! The bay boat we'll be on is roomy and stable, perfect for learning the basics without worrying about your sea legs. Just remember to snag your Texas fishing license before you come, slather on some sunscreen, and get ready for a day of laughs and hopefully some tight lines.

Techniques & Terrain

Alright, let's talk fishing. We'll be using a mix of live bait and artificial lures, depending on what the fish are biting that day. For you newbies, we'll start with some simple techniques like popping corks for trout or bottom fishing for reds. As you get more comfortable, we might try some sight casting in the shallows – there's nothing quite like spotting a big red's tail waving in the air and dropping a lure right on its nose. We'll hit a variety of spots throughout the day, from grass flats where the trout like to hang out, to mangrove-lined shorelines where redfish cruise for crabs. The great thing about fishing Port A is the variety – one minute you're in knee-deep water, the next you're working a deeper channel. It keeps things interesting and ups our chances of finding the fish.

Top Catches This Season

While we're targeting redfish and trout, don't be surprised if we hook into some other local favorites. Flounder have been showing up strong lately, especially around structure and drop-offs. Black drum are always a possibility too – they're like redfish's cousins and put up a great fight. If we're really lucky, we might even tangle with a big snook. They're not as common up here, but when they show up, it's always a treat. Remember, it's not just about what ends up in the cooler. The birds working the water, dolphins playing in the distance, and that gorgeous Texas coastline – it's all part of the experience.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish, or red drum as they're properly called, are the rock stars of Texas inshore fishing. These copper-colored beauties can range from little rat reds to bull reds over 40 inches. They've got a distinctive black spot on their tail, and when they're feeding, you can often see them tailing in shallow water. Reds love to hang around structure and will absolutely crush a well-placed lure. They're known for their strong runs and bulldogging fights – even a smaller one will give you a workout.

Sea trout, or speckled trout, are the other half of our dynamic duo. These spotted predators are quick and aggressive, often hitting lures with spectacular topwater strikes. They tend to school up, so when you find one, you've usually found a bunch. Trout have soft mouths, so finesse is key when fighting them. Spring and fall are prime times for big trout, but we catch them year-round in Port A. There's something special about the 'tap-tap' of a trout strike that gets your heart racing every time.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Port Aransas isn't just another fishing town – it's got a vibe all its own. The laid-back atmosphere, the mix of old-salt locals and eager tourists, and the sheer variety of fishing opportunities keep folks coming back year after year. One day you're battling bull reds in the surf, the next you're finessing trout in the back bays. And let's not forget the après-fishing scene – nothing beats swapping fish tales over a cold beer and fresh seafood at one of the local joints after a day on the water. Plus, with Captain Brian at the helm, you're not just getting a guide – you're getting a local expert who knows these waters like the back of his hand and is just as stoked as you are when a big one hits the deck.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, I could go on all day about the joys of fishing Port A, but the best way to experience it is to get out there yourself. This full-day trip with Captain Brian is the perfect intro to our inshore scene. Whether you're looking to bend a rod for the first time or wanting to show the kids what real fishing is all about, you're in for a treat. We've got the knowledge, we've got the spots, and the fish are waiting. All that's missing is you. So what do you say? Ready to make some memories and maybe catch dinner while you're at it? Grab your spot on the boat, and let's go chase some reds and trout in the Coastal Bend. Trust me, once you feel that first tug on the line, you'll be hooked for life!