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Caught a Trophy Redfish Inshore in Rockport Texas
Redfish Fishing in Rockport, Texas
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The Sciaenops Ocellatus belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. It typically measures between 30 and 61 inches in length, with a weight range from 10 to 45 lbs. Habitat: onshore, flats, backcountry, nearshore. - Redfish are also known as Red Drum and are prized gamefish. - They can be identified by distinctive eyespots near the tail. - These fish have a red-colored back that fades to a white belly.
Fishing Charter by Captain Larry Miller in February
Meet your Captain Larry Miller
- Rockport & Port Aransas Fishing Charters
Summary
Captain Larry Miller of Fishin' All The Time Guide Service on Sunday December offers a 5-hour inshore fishing charter targeting redfish, speckled trout, and black drum in the productive waters around Port Aransas. This beginner-friendly trip aboard a fully equipped 24' Haynie boat uses proven techniques like drift fishing, wade fishing, and live bait fishing to work the shallow flats and structure where these species feed regularly. With all gear provided and space for up to 5 guests total, this charter delivers consistent action in some of Texas' best inshore fishing waters. The winter months provide excellent opportunities for redfish action, and Captain Larry's local knowledge ensures productive days on the water targeting these prized gamefish.
Fishing Charter with Captain Larry – Rates & Booking
Captain Larry Miller of Fishin' All The Time Guide Service on Sunday December runs a 5-hour inshore fishing charter designed for 2 anglers with space for up to 3 additional guests. The trip targets redfish, speckled trout, and black drum using drift fishing, wade fishing, and live bait techniques aboard a fully equipped 24' Haynie boat. All fishing gear is provided—just bring your fishing license, snacks, and drinks. Optional pickup from Fisherman's Wharf in Port Aransas is available for a small fee. This licensed guide specializes in putting clients on fish using proven local techniques that consistently produce results in these productive inshore waters.
Highlights of Port Aransas Inshore Fishing Charter for Redfish, Trout, and Black Drum
This charter focuses on the shallow flats and structure around Port Aransas where redfish, trout, and black drum feed regularly. Captain Larry uses multiple techniques including drift fishing to cover different depths, wade fishing for working the shallows, and live bait fishing for targeting specific structure. The 24' Haynie boat provides a stable platform for both experienced anglers and beginners, with enough space for comfortable fishing and moving around the boat.
Winter months offer excellent redfish opportunities in these waters, with clear conditions and cooperative fish making for productive trips. The calm inshore environment allows for effective use of various techniques, and Captain Larry's knowledge of local spots ensures you'll fish the most productive areas based on current conditions and seasonal patterns.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish thrive in the shallow flats, backcountry, and nearshore waters around Rockport and Port Aransas. These copper-colored gamefish prefer depths of 1-4 feet where they feed on crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish along grass beds and oyster bars. In December, redfish remain active in the warmer shallow waters, making them excellent targets for wade fishing and sight casting. Their distinctive black spots near the tail and bronze coloration make them easy to identify, and their strong fighting ability provides exciting action for anglers of all skill levels.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
The 5-hour trip includes all necessary fishing gear, tackle, and bait aboard the fully equipped 24' Haynie boat. Captain Larry provides instruction for beginners while accommodating experienced anglers who want to try different techniques. The boat comfortably handles up to 5 guests total with plenty of room for casting and fighting fish. Morning trips take advantage of cooler temperatures and active feeding periods, with optional pickup service available from Fisherman's Wharf for added convenience.
Fishing in Rockport, Texas: Redfish
Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, are premier gamefish found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States. Members of the Perciformes order and Sciaenidae family, these distinctive fish are easily identified by their copper-bronze coloration, white bellies, and characteristic black spots near the tail. In Rockport waters this December, redfish provide excellent inshore fishing opportunities for anglers targeting the shallow flats and backcountry areas.
Redfish Overview
Redfish are highly sought-after gamefish known for their powerful runs and stubborn fighting ability. They inhabit coastal waters from Massachusetts to northern Mexico, with the Texas coast providing some of the most consistent fishing opportunities. These fish are prized both for their sporting qualities and excellent table fare, making them a favorite target for recreational anglers.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
Redfish prefer shallow coastal waters including flats, backcountry areas, nearshore reefs, and marsh systems. Around Rockport and Port Aransas, they frequent grass beds, oyster bars, and shallow flats where they feed on crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish. These fish are well-adapted to varying salinity levels, moving between saltwater and brackish environments throughout their lives.
Redfish Size and Weight
Adult redfish typically range from 30 to 61 inches in length, with weights between 10 and 45 pounds. Smaller "slot" redfish in the 18-28 inch range are commonly caught in inshore waters, while larger "bull" redfish over 30 inches are often found in deeper nearshore areas during certain seasons.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Redfish are opportunistic feeders that hunt crabs, shrimp, mullet, and other small fish in shallow water. They often feed by "tailing" in very shallow areas, with their tails visible above the surface as they root for food in the bottom. This behavior makes them excellent targets for sight fishing, especially during calm conditions when their feeding activity is easily spotted.
Redfish Spawning Season
Redfish spawn in nearshore waters during late summer and fall, typically from August through November. During spawning season, large schools of adult fish gather in deeper water, creating excellent fishing opportunities. After spawning, juvenile redfish move into shallow estuarine waters where they spend their first few years before moving to deeper areas.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Effective redfish techniques include live bait fishing with shrimp or small crabs, artificial lures like spoons and soft plastics, and fly fishing with crab and shrimp patterns. Wade fishing allows anglers to work shallow flats quietly, while drift fishing covers more water efficiently. In December, anglers around Rockport find them concentrated near oyster bars and grass beds where baitfish gather in the warmer shallow water.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. The flesh is versatile for cooking methods including grilling, blackening, baking, and frying. Redfish are high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury, making them a healthy seafood choice when prepared fresh.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish?
A: Live or fresh dead shrimp are the most effective baits for redfish, along with small crabs and cut mullet. Artificial lures like gold spoons, soft plastic shrimp, and topwater plugs also work well.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Rockport?
A: Redfish are commonly found on shallow grass flats, around oyster bars, in back lakes, and along shorelines with structure. Popular areas include the flats around Port Aransas, Redfish Bay, and the backcountry areas accessible from Rockport.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish have excellent flavor with firm, white meat that works well grilled, blackened, or baked. They're considered one of the best eating fish in coastal waters.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?
A: Redfish can be caught year-round, but fall and winter months often provide the most consistent action. Early morning and late afternoon are typically the most productive times, especially during moving tides.
More species you can explore on this trip
Fishin' All The Time Guide Service Available Trips
Other customer memories from this trip
Captain Larry runs his inshore fishing charters aboard a fully equipped 24' Haynie boat, perfectly suited for the shallow waters around Port Aransas and Rockport. This shallow-draft vessel allows access to the productive flats and backcountry areas where redfish, trout, and black drum feed regularly. The boat features a spacious deck with plenty of room for up to 5 guests to fish comfortably, along with all the necessary safety equipment and fishing gear. The Haynie's design makes it ideal for both drift fishing in deeper areas and getting into the skinny water for wade fishing opportunities. With a stable platform for casting and fighting fish, this boat provides the perfect setup for both beginners learning the ropes and experienced anglers targeting these popular inshore species in Texas coastal waters.
