%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F4735%2Fimages%2Funtitleddesign.png&w=1200&q=100)
Spotted Weakfish Fishing Guide in Port Aransas
Spotted Weakfish Fishing in Port Aransas, TX
%2F%2Fusers%2F7f7db3e8-88b7-4a31-b4be-ebbc477c6922%2Fimages%2Fabundant-spotted-weakfish-redfish-port-6328.png&w=1200&q=75)
The Cynoscion Nebulosus belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. It typically measures between 12 and 39 inches in length, with a weight range from 3 to 17 lbs. Habitat: onshore, nearshore, coastal river. - Popular gamefish in Gulf of Mexico waters. - Excellent table fare with mild, flaky white meat. - Active feeder during moving tides and low light conditions.
Fishing Charter & Guided Hunts by Captain Cory Russell in August
Meet your Captain Cory Russell
- Best Port Aransas Fishing Charter
Summary
Captain Cory Russell of Russell & Sons Outdoors on Tuesday June delivered an outstanding inshore fishing charter targeting spotted weakfish and redfish in Port Aransas waters. Using light tackle and drift fishing techniques, anglers worked the flats and creek mouths where these species hold during the warming June conditions. The morning bite produced steady action with multiple hookups on both spotted weakfish and redfish, showcasing why Port Aransas remains a premier Gulf Coast fishing destination. Despite afternoon rain, water conditions stayed favorable for productive fishing throughout the half-day charter. Russell & Sons Outdoors provides all necessary gear and local expertise for both novice and experienced anglers seeking quality inshore fishing experiences along the Texas coast.
Fishing Charter with Captain Cory Russell – Rates & Booking
Captain Cory Russell of Russell & Sons Outdoors on Tuesday June offers half-day and full-day fishing charters targeting Port Aransas' abundant inshore species. Charter rates include all fishing gear, bait, tackle, and ice for your catch. Morning trips typically run 6 hours starting at first light, while afternoon charters accommodate flexible scheduling based on tides and weather. Captain Russell provides light tackle setups perfect for spotted weakfish and redfish, along with local knowledge of productive flats, creek mouths, and structure. Book online or call directly to check availability and secure your preferred dates.
Highlights of Russell & Sons Outdoors Charter
This Port Aransas fishing charter specializes in sight fishing and drift fishing techniques that consistently produce results on spotted weakfish and redfish. Captain Russell's approach focuses on reading water conditions, understanding seasonal patterns, and positioning anglers where fish are actively feeding. The charter provides quality light tackle gear suitable for the hard-fighting nature of these inshore species, ensuring every angler can fully enjoy the experience regardless of skill level.
June represents prime fishing season in Port Aransas, with warming waters drawing both spotted weakfish and redfish into shallow feeding areas. The combination of experienced guidance, proper equipment, and productive fishing locations creates memorable days on the water for families, friends, and serious anglers alike.
Local Species Insights: Spotted Weakfish
Spotted weakfish thrive in Port Aransas' nearshore and coastal river systems, particularly during June when water temperatures reach optimal feeding ranges. These members of the drum family are known for their distinctive spotted pattern and excellent table fare. Anglers find them most active during moving tides around creek mouths, grass flats, and structure where they ambush baitfish. Light tackle fishing with live bait or soft plastics proves most effective, allowing anglers to feel every subtle bite and enjoy the fish's spirited fight.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Russell & Sons Outdoors charters accommodate up to 6 anglers with all necessary fishing equipment provided. Trips depart from Port Aransas marina facilities with easy parking and convenient access. Captain Russell recommends bringing sun protection, snacks, and beverages, while the charter supplies rods, reels, bait, tackle, and cooler space for your catch. Weather conditions are monitored closely, with trip adjustments made as needed to ensure safe and productive fishing experiences.
Fishing & Hunting in Port Aransas, TX: Spotted Weakfish and Redfish
The Spotted Weakfish (Cynoscion nebulosus), also known as spotted seatrout, belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. This popular gamefish features distinctive dark spots scattered across its silver sides and back, making it easily recognizable to anglers. In Port Aransas waters this June, spotted weakfish have been particularly active around creek mouths and grass flats during moving tides.
Spotted Weakfish Overview
Spotted weakfish are prized by Gulf Coast anglers for their willingness to bite, spirited fight, and excellent table fare. These fish are actually members of the drum family despite their common name, and they produce a distinctive drumming sound using specialized muscles and their swim bladder. Anglers value them for their accessibility to light tackle fishing and their abundance in Texas coastal waters.
Spotted Weakfish Habitat and Distribution
These fish prefer shallow coastal waters, grass flats, and areas where fresh and salt water mix. Around Port Aransas, they frequent bay systems, creek mouths, and nearshore waters with depths ranging from 2 to 20 feet. They move with tides and are often found near structure like oyster reefs, drop-offs, and grass beds where they ambush prey.
Spotted Weakfish Size and Weight
Spotted weakfish typically range from 12 to 39 inches in length, with weights between 3 and 17 pounds. Most fish caught by recreational anglers fall in the 14 to 20 inch range, though larger specimens over 25 inches provide exceptional fights and are considered trophy catches.
Spotted Weakfish Diet and Behavior
These predators feed primarily on shrimp, small crabs, and baitfish including mullet, anchovies, and menhaden. They are most active during dawn, dusk, and moving tides when prey is most vulnerable. Spotted weakfish often feed in schools and can be located by watching for diving birds or surface activity.
Spotted Weakfish Spawning Season
Spawning occurs from March through November in Texas waters, with peak activity during warmer months. During this period, fish move to deeper waters and form large aggregations. Water temperatures between 70-85 degrees Fahrenheit trigger spawning behavior, making summer months particularly productive for anglers.
Spotted Weakfish Fishing Techniques
Light tackle spinning gear with 10-15 pound test line works best for spotted weakfish. Popular baits include live shrimp, croaker, and mullet, while artificial lures like soft plastics, topwater plugs, and spoons are highly effective. In June around Port Aransas, anglers find success drifting grass flats with live shrimp under popping corks or casting soft plastics near structure during moving tides.
Spotted Weakfish Is It Good to Eat?
Spotted weakfish are considered excellent table fare with mild, flaky white meat that's low in fat and high in protein. The flesh is versatile and can be grilled, blackened, fried, or baked. Fresh fish should be cleaned promptly and kept on ice, as the meat is somewhat delicate and benefits from quick processing.
Spotted Weakfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for spotted weakfish?
A: Live shrimp is the most consistently productive bait, though croaker, mullet, and soft plastic lures also work well. Match your bait size to local forage for best results.
Q: Where can I find spotted weakfish near Port Aransas?
A: Focus on grass flats, creek mouths, and areas with moving water. Popular spots include the Lydia Ann Channel, Redfish Bay, and the flats around St. Charles Bay.
Q: Is spotted weakfish good to eat?
A: Yes, spotted weakfish have mild, flaky white meat that's excellent prepared many ways. They're considered one of the better eating fish in Texas coastal waters.
Q: When is the best time to catch spotted weakfish?
A: Early morning and late afternoon during moving tides produce the most consistent action. Overcast days and periods around new and full moons are particularly productive.
