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Reeling in Redfish on 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 gamefish. - They can be identified by distinctive black spots near the tail. - These fish prefer shallow coastal waters ranging from 1 to 4 feet deep.
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 fishing charter showcasing Port Aransas's premier redfish action. This half-day morning trip combined surf fishing, deep sea fishing, and pier fishing techniques across the diverse Gulf Coast waters. The early 6:45 start maximized prime feeding times when redfish move through the shallows and nearshore flats. Keith's 23-inch redfish highlight demonstrates why Port Aransas ranks among Texas's top inshore fishing destinations. Summer months offer exceptional redfish opportunities with light tackle drift fishing producing consistent results in the backcountry and nearshore zones. Russell & Sons Outdoors provides complete gear and local expertise for anglers targeting trophy redfish in these productive Gulf waters.
Fishing Charter with Captain Cory Russell – Rates & Booking
Captain Cory Russell of Russell & Sons Outdoors on Tuesday July offers half-day morning charters starting at 6:45 AM, perfect for beating the Texas heat while targeting prime redfish feeding times. These 4-6 hour trips include all tackle, bait, and fishing licenses with rates starting around $400-600 for up to 4 anglers. Book online or call directly for availability and current pricing. Russell & Sons Outdoors operates as a licensed guide service with full insurance coverage and Coast Guard certified vessels. All skill levels welcome with personalized instruction included.
Highlights of Russell & Sons Outdoors Port Aransas Experience
This charter showcases Port Aransas's versatility with surf fishing, deep sea fishing, and pier fishing all in one trip. The 23-inch redfish caught during Keith's outing represents typical summer action when these copper-colored gamefish patrol the shallows. Light tackle drift fishing proves highly effective in the backcountry areas where redfish feed on shrimp, crabs, and baitfish.
Port Aransas offers year-round fishing with summer providing excellent redfish opportunities in 1-4 feet of water. The combination of nearshore flats, surf zones, and protected backwaters creates diverse habitat perfect for sight fishing and blind casting techniques.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish thrive in Port Aransas's shallow coastal waters, particularly around grass flats, oyster reefs, and marsh edges where they ambush prey. These copper-bronze fish with distinctive black spots near their tails prefer water temperatures between 70-85°F, making summer prime time for consistent action. During July, redfish often school in the surf zone during early morning hours before moving to deeper water as temperatures rise. Their powerful runs and dogged fighting ability make them a favorite target for light tackle enthusiasts seeking an authentic Gulf Coast fishing experience.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Russell & Sons Outdoors provides a fully equipped fishing vessel with quality rods, reels, tackle, and fresh bait for up to 4 guests per trip. The early morning departure maximizes fishing time during peak feeding periods while avoiding afternoon thunderstorms common in summer. Bring sunscreen, hat, cooler with ice, and camera for trophy photos. The captain handles all navigation, fish cleaning, and provides local knowledge about tides, weather patterns, and seasonal fish movements around Port Aransas.
Fishing & Hunting in Port Aransas, TX: Redfish
Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, belong to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. These distinctive gamefish feature copper-bronze coloration with one or more black eyespots near their tail, making them easily identifiable in Port Aransas waters this July. Adult redfish typically range from 30-61 inches and weigh 10-45 pounds, though slot-size fish around 20-28 inches provide the best table fare.
Redfish Overview
Redfish rank among the most sought-after inshore gamefish along the Gulf Coast, prized for their powerful runs, accessible habitat, and excellent eating quality. These drum family members patrol shallow flats, marsh edges, and surf zones where they feed aggressively on crabs, shrimp, and baitfish. Their copper-red backs fade to white bellies, with the signature black spots serving as camouflage in their natural environment.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
Redfish inhabit onshore flats, backcountry marshes, and nearshore waters throughout the Gulf of Mexico. Around Port Aransas, they frequent grass beds, oyster reefs, and shallow sand flats in 1-4 feet of water. These fish move between different habitats based on tides, temperature, and food availability, often schooling in surf zones during cooler morning hours.
Redfish Size and Weight
Texas redfish typically measure 20-35 inches with weights from 3-15 pounds for slot-size fish. Trophy specimens can exceed 40 inches and weigh over 30 pounds. The current Texas slot limit protects breeding-size fish while allowing harvest of prime eating-size redfish between 20-28 inches.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Redfish are opportunistic predators feeding on blue crabs, white shrimp, mullet, and various baitfish. They use their downturned mouths to root through soft bottom sediments, often creating visible mud clouds while feeding. During summer months, redfish feed most actively during early morning and late evening hours when water temperatures are cooler.
Redfish Spawning Season
Redfish spawn in nearshore Gulf waters from August through November when water temperatures range from 75-85°F. Large schools of mature fish gather in deeper water to release eggs and sperm, with larvae eventually settling in shallow estuarine nursery areas where they grow to maturity.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Light tackle drift fishing with live shrimp or soft plastic baits produces excellent results around Port Aransas. Sight fishing with spoons, topwater plugs, and weedless jigs works well on shallow flats during calm conditions. In July, anglers around Port Aransas find success using gold spoons and red-white jigs near oyster reefs and grass beds during incoming tides.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Slot-size redfish provide excellent table fare with firm, white meat and mild flavor similar to snapper. The flesh contains high protein levels and beneficial omega-3 fatty acids while maintaining relatively low mercury content. Popular cooking methods include blackened, grilled, or baked preparations that highlight the fish's natural flavor without overpowering seasonings.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish?
A: Live shrimp, blue crabs, and cut mullet work exceptionally well. Artificial lures like gold spoons, soft plastics, and topwater plugs also produce consistent results.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Port Aransas?
A: Target shallow grass flats, oyster reefs, and marsh edges in 1-4 feet of water. The surf zone and nearshore areas also hold good numbers during summer months.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, slot-size redfish (20-28 inches) offer excellent eating with firm, white meat and mild flavor. They're high in protein and omega-3s with low mercury levels.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?
A: Early morning and late evening provide the most consistent action. Summer months offer excellent opportunities, especially during incoming tides around structure.
