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Caught a Trophy Redfish Wade Fishing in Port
Redfish Wade Fishing 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 gamefish. - They can be identified by distinctive eyespots near the tail. - These fish have red-colored backs that fade to white bellies.
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 Monday March offers exceptional wade fishing charters in Port Aransas, targeting redfish and black drum in the shallow flats and backcountry waters. These half-day guided trips focus on light tackle fishing in 1-4 feet of water, where anglers can sight-cast to cruising redfish and work the bottom for powerful black drum. The clear Gulf Coast waters and consistent fish activity make Port Aransas a premier wade fishing destination, with experienced guides providing all necessary gear and local knowledge. Whether you're new to wade fishing or an experienced angler, these charters deliver exciting action in some of Texas's most productive inshore waters, with fish regularly caught using jigging techniques and live bait presentations.
Fishing Charter with Captain Cory Russell – Rates & Booking
Captain Cory Russell of Russell & Sons Outdoors on Monday March provides professional wade fishing charters targeting redfish and black drum in Port Aransas's productive shallow waters. These half-day trips run 4-6 hours and include all fishing gear, tackle, and expert guidance for $400-600 per group. Licensed and experienced, Captain Russell specializes in sight-casting techniques and knows exactly where to find feeding fish in the flats and backcountry areas. Book online or call to secure your preferred date and discuss group size, with trips accommodating 2-4 anglers comfortably.
Highlights of Wade Fishing Charter
This wade fishing experience puts you directly in the water, working the shallow flats where redfish cruise and black drum feed along the bottom. The trip focuses on light tackle fishing in 1-4 feet of crystal-clear water, allowing for exciting sight-fishing opportunities when conditions align. Captain Russell provides all rods, reels, tackle, and bait, plus shares proven techniques for reading water, spotting fish, and making effective presentations. The action stays consistent throughout the trip, with multiple species available and plenty of opportunities to land quality fish while enjoying the beautiful Gulf Coast scenery.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish thrive in Port Aransas's shallow flats and backcountry waters, where they feed aggressively on crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish. These copper-colored gamefish are perfectly suited for wade fishing, often cruising in water so shallow their backs break the surface. March conditions bring excellent redfish activity as water temperatures stabilize and baitfish become more active. The fish respond well to both live bait and artificial lures, with soft plastics and spoons being particularly effective when worked slowly along the bottom or retrieved just under the surface.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your wade fishing adventure includes all necessary gear: rods, reels, tackle, bait, and a fully stocked tackle box with proven local favorites. The charter accommodates 2-4 anglers and begins with a brief orientation covering safety, techniques, and what to expect. Captain Russell handles all the details including fishing licenses, ice, and fish cleaning if desired. Trips typically start early morning or late afternoon to take advantage of optimal feeding times and comfortable wading conditions. Bring sun protection, polarized sunglasses, and wading boots or old sneakers for the best experience.
Fishing & Hunting in Port Aransas, TX: Redfish
Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, belong to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. These iconic gamefish are easily identified by their distinctive copper-red coloration, white bellies, and characteristic black eyespots near the tail. In Port Aransas waters this March, redfish are particularly active as they feed aggressively in the warming shallows.
Redfish Overview
Redfish are among the most sought-after inshore gamefish along the Gulf Coast, prized for their fighting ability and excellent table fare. These powerful fish can live over 40 years and are known for their distinctive drumming sound produced by muscles vibrating against their swim bladder. Anglers value them for their aggressive strikes and strong runs in shallow water.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
Redfish inhabit coastal waters from Massachusetts to northern Mexico, with the Gulf Coast supporting some of the largest populations. They prefer shallow flats, backcountry areas, and nearshore waters typically ranging from 1-4 feet deep. Around Port Aransas, they're commonly found in grass flats, oyster reefs, and tidal creeks where they hunt for crabs and shrimp.
Redfish Size and Weight
Adult redfish typically measure 30-61 inches and weigh 10-45 pounds, though fish over 50 pounds are considered trophy specimens. Slot-size fish (20-28 inches) are most commonly targeted by anglers, while larger "bull" redfish are often caught and released to preserve the breeding population.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Redfish are opportunistic feeders that consume crabs, shrimp, mullet, and other small fish. They often feed in very shallow water, sometimes with their backs exposed as they root along the bottom. Peak feeding occurs during moving tides, particularly early morning and late afternoon when baitfish are most active.
Redfish Spawning Season
Redfish spawn in nearshore waters from late summer through fall, with peak activity occurring when water temperatures range from 70-80°F. During spawning, large schools of adult fish gather in deeper water before returning to their shallow water haunts.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Effective techniques include sight-casting with soft plastic baits, spoons, and topwater lures. Live bait such as shrimp, mullet, and crabs work exceptionally well. In March around Port Aransas, anglers find success working shallow flats with slow-moving presentations, allowing baits to sink near structure where redfish typically feed.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offer excellent eating with firm, white meat and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. The flesh is low in fat and high in protein, making it versatile for grilling, blackening, or frying. Smaller slot-size fish provide the best table fare, while larger specimens are often released for conservation.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish?
A: Live shrimp, cut mullet, and blue crabs are top natural baits. Artificial lures like soft plastics, spoons, and topwater plugs also work excellently.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Port Aransas?
A: Look for redfish in shallow grass flats, around oyster reefs, and in backcountry areas with 1-4 feet of water. Tidal creeks and shoreline drop-offs are also productive.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish have firm white meat with a mild flavor that's excellent grilled, blackened, or fried. Slot-size fish (20-28 inches) provide the best eating quality.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?
A: Early morning and late afternoon during moving tides offer the best action. Spring and fall provide consistent fishing, with March being particularly productive in Texas waters.
