Port Aransas fishing charters face a difficult question each day: In, or out? Turn one way for the sprawling shallows of the Corpus Christi and Redfish Bays. Turn the other for nearshore reefs and the deep bluewaters of the Gulf of Mexico. Decisions, decisions.
Inshore trips are perfect for kids and beginners. They usually last four hours, fishing the bay for Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Flounder. Catch them with live bait or try lures for an extra challenge. The inshore bite is slower in winter, but you can catch tasty fish all year round.
If good eating is your priority, try bottom fishing for Red Snapper around the reefs. You can catch them year-round in local waters. However, the bite is best during the federal Snapper season in June and July. Nearshore charters are ideal for older kids and anyone who likes delicious fish.
Think you've got what it takes to fight the fiercest fish in the sea? Head offshore in search of Mahi Mahi, Tuna, Wahoo, Sailfish, and even Marlin. Offshore charters last anywhere from eight hours to several days. They're best in summer, but you can find fish all year if you go far enough.
Port Aransas holds several fishing tournaments each year. The most important one is the Deep Sea Roundup, held each July. Running since 1932, this is the oldest tournament in the Gulf. Target anything from Redfish and Trout to Sailfish and Tuna in this fun-focused event.
Rules & Regulations
All anglers aged 17 or over need to buy a license to fish in Texas. You also need a Red Drum tag to keep Redfish over 28 inches. Be aware that Red Snapper have a short open season in federal waters, usually starting in early June. You can catch them all year long in Texas state waters, though.