Barnard's Guide Service 

5.0
(120 reviews)
 
State licensed
 151 Port Avenue, Rockport, TX 78382, United States–

Barnard's Guide Service 

Rockport, TX, United States
–
22 ft
4
5.0
(120 reviews)

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If you're ready to get hooked on fishing in Rockport, we've got you covered with Barnard's Guide Service. With Captain Tommy at the helm, you're in knowledgeable and experienced hands with 37 years of guiding clients.

Depending on the time of year, you might hook into Black Drum, Redfish.On these trips, it's common to bottom fish using light tackle. Fish caught during the trip are yours to take home, so long as they're within the legal limit. The captain can even clean your catch for you. Have a cooler ready in the car!

Capt. Tommy runs a 22' Aweld boat that holds up to 4 passengers. It comes with everything you need for a productive day on the water. Rods, reels, and tackle are included, as well as lures & fresh bait.

Trips with Barnard's Guide Service are great for kids, so feel free to make a family day out of it! Children must wear life vests, so find out if the appropriate size is available on board. A few items to bring include snacks, drinks, sunglasses, a hat, and sunblock (non-spray). Alcohol is allowed in moderation, but try to avoid hard liquor as well as glass bottles.

You might need to get a local fishing license before the trip. This information is usually available online, or you can ask the captain. Some species might be protected or require a tag to keep them, so make sure you know what to expect.

You could keep reading this, but wouldn't you rather be fishing with Barnard's Guide Service?

If you're ready to get hooked on fishing in Rockport, we've got you covered with Barnard's Guide Service. With Captain Tommy at the helm, you're in knowledgeable and experienced hands with 37 years of guiding clients.

Depending on the time of year, you might hook into Black Drum, Redfish.On these trips, it's common to bottom fish using light tackle. Fish caught during the trip are yours to take home, so long as they're within the legal limit. The captain can even clean your catch for you. Have a cooler ready in the car!

Capt. Tommy runs a 22' Aweld boat that holds up to 4 passengers. It comes with everything you need for a productive day on the water. Rods, reels, and tackle are included, as well as lures & fresh bait.

Trips with Barnard's Guide Service are great for kids, so feel free to make a family day out of it! Children must wear life vests, so find out if the appropriate size is available on board. A few items to bring include snacks, drinks, sunglasses, a hat, and sunblock (non-spray). Alcohol is allowed in moderation, but try to avoid hard liquor as well as glass bottles.

You might need to get a local fishing license before the trip. This information is usually available online, or you can ask the captain. Some species might be protected or require a tag to keep them, so make sure you know what to expect.

You could keep reading this, but wouldn't you rather be fishing with Barnard's Guide Service?

Thomas Barnard
Captain
Thomas Barnard
39 years of experience
ID & credentials verified
responds within an hour

Select date to see availability

Trip date:
Group Size:
November 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
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Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
4 Hour AM
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 6:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Oct 1 - May 31
Black Drum
Redfish
Speckled Trout
US $500
Entire boat: 2 people
5 Hour Trip
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
5 hour trip starts at 6:00 AM
Black Drum
Redfish
Speckled Trout
US $550
Entire boat: 2 people
6 Hour Trip
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
6 hour trip starts at 6:00 AM
Black Drum
Redfish
Speckled Trout
US $650
Entire boat: 2 people

Customer reviews

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Rating

5.0
120 reviews
5.0
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (187)

What anglers say

100%
Great experience
99%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Good boat
100%
Recommended
99%
Caught fish

Reviews (120)

  • Diane Milner
    Diane Milner
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified
    New

    Great fishimg memories with Tommy

    5 Hour Trip on November 7, 2026 • 4 adults

    Our family had a fantastic time fishing with Branard’s Guide Service in Rockport, TX! He was knowledgeable, personable, and made the trip enjoyable for everyone. We caught lots of reds and black drum and made some wonderful family memories along the way. We’ll definitely book with him again the next time we’re fishing in Rockport. Highly recommend!

  • Raymond Esquibel
    Raymond Esquibel
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    First time on a private fishing charter

    5 Hour Trip on July 17, 2026 • 2 adults

    Today's trip my wife, dad and I had an absolute blast! 🎣 We caught a variety of species and had a day on the water that we’ll definitely remember. The captain was extremely knowledgeable, fun to be around, and created a great atmosphere from start to finish. You can tell he knows the area, loves what he does, and genuinely wants everyone to have an awesome experience. Great fishing, great vibes, and great memories made. We’ll definitely be back and highly recommend this trip to anyone.🤙🎣

  • Ryan Oster
    Ryan Oster
    us
    Florida, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Best guide on the coast!

    5 Hour Trip on May 26, 2026 • 2 adults • 1 child

    Had an awesome fishing trip with Captain Tommy! He knew all the right spots and had me and my son on some great redfish all morning. What really stood out was how patient and great he was with my kid. He never rushed us and made the whole experience fun and stress-free. We had some awesome conversations too. Tommy is down to earth, easy to talk to, and just an all-around great dude. If you’re looking to book a fishing trip, don’t waste your time with anyone else. Highly recommend!

  • Don Clark
    Don Clark
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Core family memories were made!

    5 Hour Trip on December 13, 2025 • 4 adults • 1 child

    This fishing trip was the absolute highlight of our whole family vacation! Our guide Thomas was AMAZING! He let my son drive the boat right out the gate and that made him so happy! We got to our spot and started catching fish within minutes! We had an absolute blast watching our son reel in many great Red and black drum! Thomas made our trip easy and super fun. We laughed and told stories all morning. I absolutely recommend this fishing guide to anyone who has adults or kids looking to catch some big reds! So thankful for Thomas and his great guiding today. We limited out and took home 3 bags of fish! Can’t wait to book again next vacation! If you’re on the fence about his services…. BOOK THE TRIP!

  • Vanessa Flores
    Vanessa Flores
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Fun Family Fishing

    5 Hour Trip on September 6, 2026 • 4 adults • 2 children

    My family & I ventured out with Captain Tommy today, & we caught about 4 fish before 08:30 a.m. The captain comes with over 30 years of experience, & makes the other boats with fish finders look like amateurs! He knew where the fish were, & we were hooked onto redfish as soon as the rods touched the water. We will definitely charter again, thank you for giving us a memorable experience!

  • Kyle Coffey
    Kyle Coffey
    us
    Wyoming, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Tommy is the best charter, hands down!

    5 Hour Trip on July 20, 2026 • 2 adults

    Tommy put us on fish immediately today! He is very knowledgable and took the time to explain his thought process and strategy to a newby salt fisherman. we hit a limit in about an hour and he cleaned up nicely for us. I will definitely book with Tommy again next spring when I come back to Corpus Christi.

  • Dustin Dziuk
    Dustin Dziuk
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Awesome Trip!!

    5 Hour Trip on July 1, 2026 • 4 adults

    We booked to come down last minute for a trip before the 4th. Hit the water early and started fishing, nondelays, smooth ride, took home some nice drum, and we all had a blast. He did a great job, well be booking with him again, probably in the fall.

  • Tracy Youngblood
    Tracy Youngblood
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    GREAT Family Fishing Trip

    6 Hour Trip on June 27, 2026 • 4 adults

    Captain Tommy is a solid guide with a wealth of knowledge and a great storyteller! He is relentless in his pursuit to put his customers on fish. Bonus…we caught fish!!! Just what we needed while visiting Rockport. THANK YOU!

  • Gary Hirshey
    Gary Hirshey
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Super fun fishing experience!

    5 Hour Trip on June 14, 2026 • 3 adults

    The fishing trip was fun and educational. Our guide patiently showed us how to locate and catch a lot of Reds. Not only did he share his love for fisfing, but answered all our questions so professionally. He made the trip fun. A time to remember!

  • Troy Lalone
    Troy Lalone
    us
    Michigan, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Wonderful guide!

    4 Hour AM on May 22, 2026 • 4 adults

    What a great time we had today! Tom really knows his “stuff”. Personable, friendly and so helpful! Caught Red Drum today and on our way to the restaurant to have them cooked for dinner! Gonna definitely come back again. Thanks, Tom.

FAQs about Barnard's Guide Service

Barnard's Guide Service offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $500 per group, additional US $75 per person after 2 guests - 4 Hour AM (4 hours)
  • US $550 per group, additional US $75 per person after 2 guests - 5 Hour Trip (5 hours)
  • US $650 per group, additional US $75 per person after 2 guests - 6 Hour Trip (6 hours)
When you book a trip with Barnard's Guide Service, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • Live bait well
  • Wireless trolling motor
Trips booked with Barnard's Guide Service include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Live bait (When needed)
  • Catch cleaning & filleting (Unlike some . I clean your catch and package them at NO charge . )
Barnard's Guide Service offers the following types of fishing:
  • Inshore fishing
  • Reef fishing
  • Flats fishing
  • Backcountry fishing
Barnard's Guide Service offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Bottom fishing
  • Spinning
Top targeted fish species with Barnard's Guide Service include:
  • Black Drum
  • Redfish
  • Speckled Trout

Your captain

Thomas Barnard
Thomas Barnard
Rockport, Texas, United States
2 Fishing Reports
ID & license verified
120 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since June 2023
Angler's Choice
The Angler's Choice Award is given to listings that consistently deliver a high-quality service and earn great reviews from customers.
Captain Thomas Barnard specializes in bottom fishing with light tackle, making each catch an exciting adventure. From reeling in Redfish to landing Speckled Trout, you'll be amazed at the variety of fish he'll help you hook. Not only does he have a knack for teaching kids the art of fishing, but he's also known for creating a fun-filled atmosphere that guarantees a great time for everyone. Join Captain Tommy for an epic fishing escapade where laughter, learning, and impressive catches await!
Thomas Barnard
Thomas Barnard
Fully verified
Angler's Choice
2
reports
120
reviews
2023
member since
~1h
response
Captain Thomas Barnard specializes in bottom fishing with light tackle, making each catch an exciting adventure. From reeling in Redfish to landing Speckled Trout, you'll be amazed at the variety of fish he'll help you hook. Not only does he have a knack for teaching kids the art of fishing, but he's also known for creating a fun-filled atmosphere that guarantees a great time for everyone. Join Captain Tommy for an epic fishing escapade where laughter, learning, and impressive catches await!

The fish you can target

Black Drum
Black Drum
Redfish
Redfish
Speckled Trout
Speckled Trout
Black Drum
Black Drum
Redfish
Redfish
Speckled Trout
Speckled Trout

Real catches by this captain

  • Insulated cooler packed with ice and multiple harvested fish, including redfish and dark-bodied drum-like species, shown at a dock or fishing area.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Redfish
    Diane M.
    Diane M.
    Our family had a fantastic time fishing with Branard’s Guide Service in Rockport, TX! He was knowledgeable, personable, and made the trip enjoyable for everyone. We caught lots of reds and black drum and made some wonderful family memories along the way. We’ll definitely book with him again the next time we’re fishing in Rockport. Highly recommend!
  • Angler proudly displaying a Redfish while fishing on a calm day, showcasing the serene waters and clear skies.
    Fish 1
    Redfish
    Luc L.
    Luc L.
    Cpt. Tommy was able to get us on the fish even with the full moon the night before. All the other guides call Cpt. Tommy when they need help finding fish. We will be going out with him again, hopefully very soon.
  • A neatly arranged display of several Redfish on a cleaning station at a dock, showcasing a successful fishing trip.
    Fish 1
    Redfish
    Richard L.
    Richard L.
    Tommy put us on fish early. Very few undersized. Good day fishing
  • Angler proudly displaying a large Redfish while fishing in a scenic coastal environment.
    Fish 1
    Redfish
    Sean B.
    Sean B.
    One of the best trips i have been on. Everyone caught multiple keepers😃!!! Plenty to take home. Very grateful to the captain. Already planning the next trip.
  • A proud father and his two young sons display a large fish while enjoying a family fishing trip on the water.
    Fish 1
    Redfish
    Vanessa F.
    Vanessa F.
    My family & I ventured out with Captain Tommy today, & we caught about 4 fish before 08:30 a.m. The captain comes with over 30 years of experience, & makes the other boats with fish finders look like amateurs! He knew where the fish were, & we were hooked onto redfish as soon as the rods touched the water. We will definitely charter again, thank you for giving us a memorable experience!
  • A cooler filled with various fish species, including striped bass and redfish, showcasing a successful fishing trip.
    Fish 1
    Black Drum
    Kyle C.
    Kyle C.
    Tommy put us on fish immediately today! He is very knowledgable and took the time to explain his thought process and strategy to a newby salt fisherman. we hit a limit in about an hour and he cleaned up nicely for us. I will definitely book with Tommy again next spring when I come back to Corpus Christi.
  • Angler holding a large redfish over calm coastal waters from a fishing boat.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Redfish
    Raymond E.
    Raymond E.
    Today's trip my wife, dad and I had an absolute blast! 🎣 We caught a variety of species and had a day on the water that we’ll definitely remember. The captain was extremely knowledgeable, fun to be around, and created a great atmosphere from start to finish. You can tell he knows the area, loves what he does, and genuinely wants everyone to have an awesome experience. Great fishing, great vibes, and great memories made. We’ll definitely be back and highly recommend this trip to anyone.🤙🎣
  • Young anglers pose aboard a small fishing boat with a large drum-like saltwater fish caught in calm coastal waters.
    Fish 1
    Black Drum
    Dustin D.
    Dustin D.
    We booked to come down last minute for a trip before the 4th. Hit the water early and started fishing, nondelays, smooth ride, took home some nice drum, and we all had a blast. He did a great job, well be booking with him again, probably in the fall.
  • Angler proudly displaying a catch of three Redfish at the dock, showcasing a successful day of fishing.
    Fish 1
    Redfish
    Tracy Y.
    Tracy Y.
    Captain Tommy is a solid guide with a wealth of knowledge and a great storyteller! He is relentless in his pursuit to put his customers on fish. Bonus…we caught fish!!! Just what we needed while visiting Rockport. THANK YOU!
  • A family group proudly displaying their catch of Redfish while fishing on a boat in a coastal waterway.
    Fish 1
    Redfish
    Gary H.
    Gary H.
    The fishing trip was fun and educational. Our guide patiently showed us how to locate and catch a lot of Reds. Not only did he share his love for fisfing, but answered all our questions so professionally. He made the trip fun. A time to remember!

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Center console boats
Capacity
4 persons
Boat length
22 ft
Year built
2014
Restored in
2023
Boat manufacturer
Alweld
Boat type
Center console
Engine model
Yamaha
Powered by
1 x 150HP
Max cruising speed
35 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Inshore Fishing
Reef Fishing
Flats Fishing
Backcountry Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Bottom Fishing
Spinning

Which amenities are available onboard

Live bait well
Wireless trolling motor
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Live bait
When needed
Catch cleaning & filleting
Unlike some . I clean your catch and package them at NO charge .

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 7 days prior to trip
You can cancel or modify your booking up to 7 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.
More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup not included
Transfer to/from departure site is not included in trip rates.
Child friendly
I encourage my guest to bring their kids and have them enjoy a morning on the water. It's rewarding seeing them have a smile on their face catching a fish !!!
You keep catch
Catch and release allowed

How you can pay

Book with 20% deposit, pay rest to captain
When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 20% deposit to guarantee your reservation.
The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:
 Cash
 Visa
 Mastercard
When paying the remaining balance with a credit card, an additional 4% charge will apply.

What’s biting in Rockport right now

Black DrumBlack Drum
RedfishRedfish
Speckled TroutSpeckled Trout

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