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Family-Friendly Inshore Fishing in Port Aransas
- Published Date: September 8, 2025
- Fishing
- Rockport, TX
- $300 - $1,500 price range
- Updated Date: November 27, 2025
Summary
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Coastal Catches
Family Fun Fishing in Port A & Rockport
Hey there, fishing fans! Ready for a classic Texas coastal adventure? Captain Larry here, and I'm pumped to take you and your crew out for some top-notch inshore action in Port Aransas and Rockport. We're talking a 4-hour trip that's perfect for families looking to make some memories and maybe land a few local favorites. Hop aboard my 24' Haynie – she's a beauty with plenty of room for casting and reeling in the big ones. Whether you're after redfish, speckled trout, or black drum, I know just the spots to get your lines wet and your coolers full.
What's the Deal?
Listen up, folks – here's the scoop on our family-friendly fishing charter. We're set up for two anglers, but I can squeeze in up to three more if you've got a bigger crew. That means mom, dad, and the kiddos can all get in on the action. I've got all the gear you need – rods, reels, and tackle that'll put you on the fish. Just make sure you've got your Texas fishing license (don't forget!), and pack some snacks and drinks to keep everyone happy out on the water. Oh, and if you're staying in Port A, I can even pick you up at Fisherman's Wharf for a small fee. Easy peasy!
Fishing the Flats
Alright, let's talk fishing. We'll be hitting the sweet spots in the bays and flats around Port Aransas and Rockport. These waters are like a buffet for redfish, trout, and drum. We might do some drift fishing over grass flats, or I'll pole us along the shorelines where the big boys like to hang out. Depending on the tide and what's biting, we could be throwing soft plastics, live bait, or even fly fishing if that's your thing. I'll show you how to work a popping cork – it's like ringing the dinner bell for specks and reds. And don't worry if you're new to this – I'll have you casting like a pro in no time.
Target Species
Let's break down the all-stars you'll be chasing on this trip. First up, we've got the redfish – these copper-colored bruisers are the rockstars of Texas inshore fishing. They love to cruise the shallows, and when they're tailing, it's a sight to behold. Reds can grow over 40 inches, but we'll be targeting the slot-sized ones that are perfect for the dinner table. They put up a heck of a fight, and nothing beats seeing that spot-tailed beauty come to the net.
Next, we've got speckled trout, or "specks" as we call 'em. These guys are the bread and butter of bay fishing. They're beautiful fish with spots all over and teeth that'll make you think twice about lipping them. Specks are great eating and can be found year-round, but they really turn on in the cooler months. We'll look for them around structure or slicks on the water's surface.
Last but not least, there's the black drum. These aren't the prettiest fish in the sea, but boy, can they pull! Drum love to root around on the bottom for crabs and shrimp, and they've got a set of throat teeth that can crush shells like nobody's business. The smaller ones, called "puppy drum," are excellent on the grill. We might find some big bulls over 30 pounds, too – those are catch-and-release only, but they're a blast to fight.
Why Families Love This Trip
Let me tell you, there's nothing quite like seeing a kid's face light up when they feel that first tug on the line. This trip is all about making those moments happen. It's short enough to keep the little ones engaged, but long enough for everyone to get their fair share of fish-fighting action. Plus, the waters we fish are usually calm, so seasickness isn't a big worry. And hey, if someone needs a break from casting, they can always play lookout for dolphins – we see 'em all the time out here!
Time to Wet a Line!
So, what do you say? Ready to make some fishing memories with the family? Whether you're looking to put some fillets in the freezer or just want to teach the kids the joys of being on the water, this trip's got you covered. The fish are biting, the weather's fine, and I've got cold drinks in the cooler. All we need now is you and your crew. Don't wait too long – the best dates book up fast, especially during peak seasons. Give me a shout, and let's get you set up for a day of fishing you won't forget. See you on the water!
Learn more about the species
Black Drum
Black drum are the heavyweights of the drum family, often reaching 30-50 pounds in our waters. You'll find them cruising shallow flats and hanging around oyster beds, using their powerful jaws to crush shellfish. Spring is prime time as they school up to spawn, making some wild drumming sounds underwater. Anglers love targeting these bruisers for their strong fight and good eating, especially the smaller ones under 15 pounds. To land a big one, try fishing near deeper channels with fresh crab or shrimp on a fish-finder rig. Just be ready for a battle - these fish can pull like a freight train when hooked! Keep an eye out for their distinctive chin barbels and silvery-gray coloration. With a little patience, you might just catch yourself a trophy black drum.
Redfish
Redfish are the rockstars of our inshore waters. These copper-colored beauties with the signature tail spot average 20-30 inches, but trophy bulls can push 40+ inches. You'll find 'em tailing in skinny water, often so shallow their backs are out of the water. They love cruising over mud flats, around oyster beds, and near marsh edges. Fall is prime time when they school up to spawn. Anglers can't get enough of their powerful runs and hard-fighting spirit. Plus, they're excellent table fare with a mild, sweet flavor. To up your odds, look for nervous baitfish or disturbed water - that often means reds are feeding. Try a gold spoon or scented soft plastic and get ready for some drag-screaming action when one of these bulldogs takes off!
Sea Trout
Speckled trout, or specs as we call 'em, are a favorite target in these parts. They typically run 14-20 inches but can hit 5 pounds or more. You'll find them prowling grass flats, hanging around structures, or schooling up in deeper channels come winter. Early mornings and evenings are prime time, especially around moving tides. Anglers love specs for their aggressive strikes and tasty white meat. They put up a decent fight too, often leaping clear out of the water. To boost your odds, try working a soft plastic shrimp imitation slowly along grass edges. And here's a local tip - when you catch one, don't move. There's usually more nearby. Just be careful not to overcook 'em - that delicate meat can get mushy fast.
About the Haynie
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 60
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 400
