Hey there, anglers! Ready for some top-notch fishing action in the heart of Texas coastal waters? Our 4-hour afternoon trip out of Port Aransas and Rockport is just the ticket. We'll be cruising on our spankin' new 2023 custom 24' Haynie boat - she's a beauty and built for these waters. This trip's sweet spot is two fishermen, but we can squeeze in up to five if you've got a crew. We're talking non-stop action as we hunt for redfish, speckled trout, and black drum. Don't sweat the gear - we've got all the rods, reels, and tackle you'll need. Just bring your fishing license, some grub, and your favorite drinks. Heck, if the mood strikes, we might even take a dip to cool off. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, I'll make sure you're in the right spot to land some bruisers. Just remember, folks - that deposit's non-refundable, so when you're in, you're all in!
Alright, let's talk brass tacks. When you step aboard our Haynie, you're in for a treat. These boats are the cream of the crop for inshore fishing - stable, roomy, and they can sneak into those skinny water spots where the big boys hide. We'll start by hitting some of my favorite honey holes - maybe some grass flats for trout, or we might scout the mangroves for tailing reds. I've got a sixth sense for where the fish are biting, and I'm not shy about sharing my tricks. We'll be using a mix of live bait and artificial lures, depending on what's hot that day. Expect to do some cast and retrieve, maybe some drift fishing if the wind's right. And hey, if you're new to this, don't worry - I'll show you the ropes, from setting the hook to fighting that big one all the way to the boat. It's all about having a good time and maybe telling a few fish stories along the way.
Let me tell you, the fishing's been on fire lately. We've been absolutely crushing the redfish - I'm talking bull reds that'll make your arms ache. Last week, we had a fella land a 40-incher that fought like a freight train. The speckled trout have been showing up in force too, especially around the grass beds and oyster reefs. And if you're looking for a real slugfest, the black drum have been thick as thieves near the jetties. We've been pulling in some real donkeys - 30-pounders that'll test your mettle and your tackle. But it's not just about size - we've been getting into some serious numbers too. It's not uncommon for us to boat 20-30 fish in a trip, with a mixed bag that'll make any angler grin from ear to ear. Just remember, we practice catch and release for the big breeders, but you're welcome to keep a few for the dinner table, as long as they're within regulations.
"Hands down one of the best guides I have fished with, he is very hands on, and will put you on the fish!!" - Corinna
Alright, let's break down the big three you'll be chasing on this trip. First up, the redfish - these copper-colored beauties are the rock stars of Texas inshore fishing. 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 can range from little rat reds up to bull reds over 40 inches. They love to hang around structure and will hit everything from live shrimp to topwater lures. The fight is epic - they'll run hard and try to wrap you around every piling in sight.
Next, we've got speckled trout, or "specks" as we call 'em. These guys are the bread and butter of Gulf Coast fishing. They're sleek, silvery, and covered in - you guessed it - speckles. Specks are ambush predators, so we'll be targeting them around grass beds, drop-offs, and anywhere bait is congregating. They're not the biggest fighters, but they make up for it in numbers and taste. A 20-inch speck is a solid catch, but they can grow up to 30 inches or more.
Last but not least, the black drum. These are the bulldogs of the bay - thick-bodied and powerful. They've got distinctive whiskers under their chin that they use to root around for crabs and shrimp on the bottom. Drum can get huge - we're talking 30-40 pounds for the big ones - and they pull like a tractor. The best part? They're suckers for simple baits like shrimp or crab, making them a great target for anglers of all skill levels. Just be ready for a workout when you hook into a big 'un!
Well, folks, there you have it - a rundown of what you can expect on our 4-hour afternoon fishing charter out of Port A and Rockport. This isn't just a fishing trip; it's a chance to make some real memories and maybe land the catch of a lifetime. Whether you're looking to bend a rod, learn some new techniques, or just enjoy a beautiful day on the water, we've got you covered. Our new Haynie boat is waiting, the fish are biting, and I'm itching to share my local knowledge with you. So what are you waiting for? Grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's hit the water. The only thing missing is you! Book now, and let's make some fishing magic happen. Trust me, once you fish these waters with us, you'll be hooked for life. See you on the boat!
June 13, 2024
Redfish are a favorite around here, and for good reason. These copper-colored beauties typically run 20-30 inches, though the big bulls can top 40. You'll find 'em in shallow water - we're talking 1-4 feet deep - hanging around oyster reefs, grass flats, and channel edges. They love to cruise the shallows, sometimes with their backs out of the water! Fall is prime time as they school up to spawn. Reds put up an awesome fight and taste great too. Anglers love sight-casting to them or feeling that telltale thump when one crushes a lure. If you want to land a big one, try using cut mullet on a circle hook. Let it sit on the bottom near a drop-off or creek mouth - those trophy reds can't resist an easy meal. Just be ready when that rod doubles over!
Black drum are the bulldogs of the bay. They're not the prettiest fish, but man can they pull. Most are 5-30 pounds, but the big ones can top 90! You'll find 'em in brackish water near oyster beds, pier pilings, and channel edges. They love crustaceans, so fresh crab or shrimp are your best bets. Spring's the time to target them, when they school up to spawn. Drum make that croaking sound that gives 'em their name - sometimes you can hear 'em before you see 'em. They're not known for speed, but their power will test your gear. For eating, stick to the smaller ones under 15 pounds. The big ones get tough and wormy. Pro tip: use a heavy sinker to keep your bait on the bottom where the drum feed. When you feel that thump, give 'em a second before setting the hook.
Sea trout, or specks as we call 'em, are a blast to catch. Most run 14-20 inches, but gator trout over 25 inches aren't uncommon. Look for them around grass flats, oyster reefs, and deeper channels, especially early morning or late evening. They'll hit topwaters, soft plastics, and live bait. Spring and fall are prime seasons when the water temps are just right. Trout are known for their light, tasty meat, but the fight is half the fun - they'll make some nice runs and even jump occasionally. Here's a local trick: on calm mornings, cruise the flats and look for v-shaped wakes. Those are often big trout chasing bait. Cast a soft plastic ahead of the wake and hold on!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 60
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 400
Hands down one of the best guides I have fished with, he is very hands on, and will put you on the fish!!