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Landing Big Redfish in Port Aransas Waters
Redfish Fishing Charter in Port Aransas, TX
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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 game fish. - 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 & 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 July delivered an outstanding half-day fishing charter in Port Aransas, combining surf fishing, deep sea fishing, and pier fishing techniques. This Texas Gulf Coast destination offers exceptional inshore fishing opportunities with redfish being the prime target species. The morning trip showcased the versatility of Port Aransas waters, where anglers can experience multiple fishing styles in a single outing. From the surf's edge to deeper offshore waters and productive pier fishing spots, the area provides consistent action for both novice and experienced anglers. Summer months bring prime conditions for redfish and other Gulf species, making it an ideal time to book your charter. Russell & Sons Outdoors provides all necessary gear and local expertise to ensure a successful day on the water, whether you're targeting trophy redfish or exploring the diverse fishing grounds that make Port Aransas a top Texas fishing destination.
Fishing Charter with Captain Cory Russell – Rates & Booking
Captain Cory Russell of Russell & Sons Outdoors on Tuesday July offers comprehensive half-day and full-day fishing charters starting at 6:45 AM. Our licensed guide provides all tackle, bait, and safety equipment for your Port Aransas fishing adventure. Trip rates include surf fishing, deep sea fishing, and pier fishing techniques depending on conditions and target species. Book online or call to reserve your charter and experience the best inshore and offshore fishing Texas Gulf Coast has to offer.
Highlights of Russell & Sons Outdoors Charter
This Port Aransas fishing charter combines multiple fishing techniques in one trip, giving you the best chance at landing trophy redfish. Our experienced captain knows the local waters and adjusts tactics based on tides, weather, and fish activity. Recent trips have produced quality redfish in the 23-inch range using light tackle drift fishing methods. The versatility of fishing from surf, deep water, and piers means we can adapt to conditions and put you on active fish throughout your charter.
Summer fishing in Port Aransas offers excellent opportunities for redfish and other Gulf species. Clear morning conditions provide ideal visibility for sight fishing, while our local knowledge helps locate productive structure and feeding areas. All skill levels are welcome, and we provide instruction on techniques that work best in these Texas coastal waters.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish thrive in Port Aransas's shallow flats, backcountry areas, and nearshore waters during summer months. These copper-colored drum species feed actively in 1-4 feet of water around oyster reefs, grass beds, and structure. July brings consistent redfish action as they patrol the flats looking for crabs, shrimp, and baitfish. Light tackle drift fishing proves highly effective, allowing anglers to feel every strike while maintaining the finesse needed for these wary fish. The 23-inch redfish caught on recent trips demonstrates the quality of fish available in these productive Texas waters.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your Port Aransas fishing charter includes a well-equipped boat suitable for surf, deep sea, and pier fishing techniques. We accommodate small groups and provide all rods, reels, tackle, and bait needed for your trip. Early morning departures at 6:45 AM take advantage of prime feeding times and cooler temperatures. Safety equipment and local expertise ensure a comfortable and productive day on the water, whether you're a first-time angler or experienced fisherman looking to explore new techniques.
Fishing & Hunting in Port Aransas, TX: Redfish
Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, belong to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. These prized game fish are found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States, with Port Aransas waters providing excellent habitat during July fishing seasons. Distinguished by their copper-red coloration and distinctive black eyespots near the tail, redfish are highly sought after by both recreational and sport anglers.
Redfish Overview
Red drum are robust, powerful fish that can live over 40 years and grow to impressive sizes. They're valued for their fighting ability and excellent table fare, making them one of the most popular inshore species along the Texas coast. Their distinctive drumming sound, produced by muscles vibrating against their swim bladder, gives them their common name.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
These adaptable fish inhabit shallow coastal waters including flats, backcountry areas, and nearshore environments. In Port Aransas, redfish frequent oyster reefs, grass beds, and sandy flats in 1-4 feet of water. They move between different habitats based on tides, temperature, and food availability, making them accessible to various fishing techniques.
Redfish Size and Weight
Adult redfish typically range from 30 to 61 inches in length, weighing between 10 and 45 pounds. Slot-size fish around 20-28 inches are common in Texas waters and provide excellent sport on light tackle. Trophy-class redfish over 40 inches are called "bull reds" and offer incredible fights for experienced anglers.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Red drum are opportunistic feeders that consume crabs, shrimp, mullet, and other baitfish. They often feed by tailing in shallow water, creating visible disturbances that alert anglers to their presence. During summer months, they're most active during early morning and late afternoon periods when water temperatures are more comfortable.
Redfish Spawning Season
Spawning occurs in nearshore waters from late summer through fall when water temperatures range from 70-85°F. During this period, large schools of adult redfish gather in deeper water, though smaller fish continue feeding in shallow areas throughout the year.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Effective methods include sight fishing with soft plastics, live bait fishing with shrimp or mullet, and topwater lures during low-light periods. Light tackle drift fishing works exceptionally well in Port Aransas, allowing anglers to cover water while maintaining sensitivity to detect subtle strikes. In July, focus on early morning sessions when redfish actively patrol the flats.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offer mild, slightly sweet flesh with firm texture that works well grilled, blackened, or fried. They're an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Smaller slot-size fish typically provide the best eating quality, while larger specimens are often released to preserve the breeding population.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish?
A: Live shrimp, mullet, and blue crab are top natural baits. Soft plastic jigs, spoons, and topwater plugs work well for artificial lures.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Port Aransas?
A: Focus on shallow flats, oyster reefs, and grass beds in 1-4 feet of water. Look for tailing fish or birds working baitfish.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish have mild, sweet flesh that's excellent grilled or blackened. Slot-size fish provide the best table fare.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?
A: Early morning and late afternoon during summer months offer the most consistent action when fish are actively feeding.
