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Trophy Redfish Fishing in Port Aransas Waters
Redfish Inshore 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 Sunday May offers prime inshore fishing opportunities targeting redfish in Port Aransas' productive waters. This 4-hour guided charter provides all necessary gear and focuses on the shallow flats and channels where redfish thrive year-round. May represents excellent timing as warming waters activate feeding patterns, making it ideal for both experienced anglers and families seeking their first taste of Gulf Coast fishing. The trip departs from Conn Brown Harbor with professional guidance, quality tackle, and local knowledge that consistently produces memorable catches in these renowned Texas coastal waters.
Fishing Charter with Captain Cory Russell – Rates & Booking
Captain Cory Russell of Russell & Sons Outdoors on Sunday May provides a comprehensive 4-hour inshore fishing experience departing from Conn Brown Harbor. This charter targets redfish, trout, flounder, and black drum using a variety of proven techniques including jigging, baitcasting, and drift fishing. All rods, reels, bait, and tackle are included, accommodating up to 2 guests per trip. The licensed guide brings extensive local knowledge of Port Aransas waters, focusing on productive flats and channel edges where gamefish concentrate. A 20% cash tip is appreciated after each successful outing. Contact Russell & Sons Outdoors directly to check availability and secure your preferred departure time.
Highlights of 4 Hour Inshore Fishing Charter in Port Aransas
This charter stands out for its focus on technique variety and prime timing. May fishing in Port Aransas offers excellent conditions as warming waters trigger increased feeding activity among redfish populations. The trip utilizes both heavy and light tackle approaches, allowing anglers to experience different fighting characteristics of the same species. Conn Brown Harbor provides convenient access to productive fishing grounds within minutes of departure.
The shallow water focus means visual fishing opportunities where you can often spot redfish before casting. This adds an exciting hunting element to the experience, especially effective during morning hours when fish are actively feeding in the flats. The 4-hour duration provides ample time to work multiple spots while maintaining comfort for families and first-time saltwater anglers.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish in Port Aransas waters exhibit classic inshore behavior, cruising shallow flats and channel edges in search of crabs, shrimp, and baitfish. May represents prime timing as these copper-colored fighters become increasingly active in warming waters. Local redfish typically range from slot-size fish around 20-28 inches up to larger specimens exceeding 30 inches. The species responds well to both artificial lures and live bait presentations, with jigging and baitcasting proving particularly effective in the varied structure around Redfish Bay. Their powerful runs and stubborn fighting style make every hookup memorable, whether you're using light tackle for sport or heavier gear for reliability.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your charter begins at Conn Brown Harbor with a 7 AM departure, taking advantage of prime morning feeding periods. The boat is equipped with quality rods, reels, and a selection of lures and baits proven effective for local conditions. Captain Russell provides instruction on techniques and assists with fish handling, making the experience accessible for all skill levels. The trip focuses on shallow water fishing, typically working depths of 1-4 feet where redfish are most commonly found. Partly cloudy conditions and calm winds create ideal fishing weather, though the captain monitors conditions closely and adjusts plans accordingly for safety and success.
Fishing & Hunting in Port Aransas, TX: Redfish
The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. This iconic gamefish is easily identified by its copper-red coloration, distinctive black eyespots near the tail, and powerful build. In Port Aransas waters this May, redfish are particularly active as warming temperatures trigger increased feeding behavior in the shallow flats and channels.
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 fish inhabit shallow coastal waters, making them accessible to anglers fishing from boats or wading the flats. Their distinctive drumming sound, produced by muscles vibrating against their swim bladder, often gives away their presence to experienced anglers.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
These fish thrive in shallow coastal environments including grass flats, oyster reefs, and channel edges. Around Port Aransas, redfish are commonly found in Redfish Bay and surrounding waters, preferring depths of 1-4 feet where they can easily access their preferred prey. They tolerate a wide range of salinity levels, moving freely between brackish and saltwater environments.
Redfish Size and Weight
Adult redfish typically measure between 30 and 61 inches in length, with weights ranging from 10 to 45 pounds. Slot-size fish around 20-28 inches are most commonly encountered by recreational anglers, while larger "bull" redfish exceeding 30 inches provide trophy-class fishing experiences.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Redfish are opportunistic feeders that consume crabs, shrimp, mullet, and various baitfish. They often feed by rooting through soft bottom sediments, creating distinctive "muds" that alert anglers to their presence. These fish are most active during dawn and dusk periods, though they can be caught throughout the day in favorable conditions.
Redfish Spawning Season
Spawning occurs in nearshore waters during late summer and early fall when water temperatures remain warm. During this period, large schools of mature fish gather in deeper waters, though younger fish continue to inhabit the shallow inshore areas year-round.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Effective techniques include jigging with soft plastics, baitcasting with spoons or topwater lures, and live bait fishing with shrimp or mullet. In May, anglers around Port Aransas find success working the edges of grass flats during incoming tides, when redfish move shallow to feed. Sight fishing becomes particularly productive during calm conditions when fish can be spotted cruising in clear water.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat and a mild flavor that works well with various cooking methods. The flesh is lean and flaky when cooked, making it popular for grilling, blackening, or frying. 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 soft plastic jigs are highly effective. Spoons and topwater lures also produce excellent results, especially during active feeding periods.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Port Aransas?
A: Redfish Bay, the flats around Conn Brown Harbor, and shallow grass beds throughout the area consistently hold fish. Focus on areas with 1-4 feet of water depth.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish provide excellent table fare with firm, white meat and mild flavor. Slot-size fish between 20-28 inches are considered prime eating size.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?
A: Early morning and late afternoon periods are most productive, though redfish can be caught throughout the day. May through October typically offers the most consistent action in Texas waters.
More species you can explore on this trip
Russell & Sons Outdoors Available Trips
Other customer memories from this trip
Get ready for a laid-back morning of fishing in the scenic Redfish Bay near Port Aransas. Our 4-hour guided charter takes you to prime spots where you can reel in local favorites like redfish, trout, flounder, and black drum. No need to worry about gear - we've got you covered with all the rods, reels, bait, and tackle you'll need. This trip is perfect for small groups of friends or family looking to spend some quality time on the water together. Whether you're an experienced angler or trying fishing for the first time, our knowledgeable captain will help ensure you have a great time out on the bay. After your trip, don't forget that a 20% cash tip for the crew is appreciated. Book your spot now for a relaxing half-day of coastal fishing fun in Port Aransas!
