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Redfish Fishing with Cory Russell in Port Aransas
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. - Popular game fish found on Atlantic and Gulf coastlines. - Identified by distinctive eyespots near the tail.
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 redfish charter in Port Aransas, TX. This half-day fishing charter showcased the versatility of Port Aransas waters, combining surf fishing, deep sea fishing, and pier fishing techniques. The morning trip produced a beautiful 23-inch redfish using light tackle drift fishing methods. Port Aransas offers some of the best inshore fishing on the Texas Gulf Coast, with redfish being a prime target species during summer months. Russell & Sons Outdoors provides all necessary gear and local expertise for anglers seeking trophy redfish in these productive waters. The diverse fishing grounds around Port Aransas allow captains to adapt techniques based on conditions, ensuring guests experience the best possible action whether targeting redfish in the surf, from piers, or in deeper offshore waters.
Fishing Charter with Captain Cory Russell – Rates & Booking
Captain Cory Russell of Russell & Sons Outdoors on Tuesday July offers half-day and full-day fishing charters starting at 6:45 AM. Our Port Aransas fishing charters include all tackle, bait, and fishing licenses for a complete experience. We specialize in redfish, speckled trout, and other Gulf Coast species using proven techniques like drift fishing with light tackle. Book online or call for current rates and availability. Our licensed guides provide local knowledge of the best fishing spots around Port Aransas, ensuring you have the best chance at landing trophy fish.
Highlights of Russell & Sons Outdoors Charter
This Port Aransas fishing charter delivered exceptional redfish action with a 23-inch trophy caught using light tackle drift fishing methods. The versatility of our approach allows us to target fish using surf fishing, deep sea fishing, and pier fishing techniques all in one trip. Captain Cory's local expertise shines through his ability to read conditions and adapt fishing strategies for maximum success.
Summer fishing in Port Aransas offers prime opportunities for redfish, with these copper-colored fighters providing exciting battles on light tackle. The early morning start ensures we're on the water during peak feeding times, when redfish are most active in the shallow flats and nearshore waters.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish thrive in Port Aransas's diverse habitat, from shallow grass flats to deeper nearshore waters. These copper-colored drum are ambush predators that feed heavily during dawn and dusk hours, making early morning charters particularly productive. In July, redfish move between the surf zone and back bay areas, following baitfish and favorable water temperatures. Captain Cory's knowledge of seasonal patterns and local structure gives anglers the edge needed to connect with these prized gamefish consistently.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Our Port Aransas fishing charters accommodate up to six anglers and include all necessary equipment from rods and reels to tackle and bait. We launch from convenient Port Aransas marinas with easy parking and restroom facilities. Morning trips start at 6:45 AM to take advantage of prime feeding times, while afternoon charters offer flexibility for different schedules. All safety equipment is provided, and Captain Cory maintains current Coast Guard licensing and local fishing permits for your peace of mind.
Fishing & Hunting in Port Aransas, TX: Redfish
Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, are iconic gamefish of the Gulf Coast and Atlantic waters. Members of the Perciformes order and Sciaenidae family, these copper-colored fighters are easily identified by their distinctive eyespots near the tail and reddish-bronze coloration that fades to white on the belly. In Port Aransas waters this July, redfish provide some of the most exciting inshore fishing opportunities along the Texas coast.
Redfish Overview
Redfish are prized by anglers for their powerful runs, shallow water accessibility, and excellent table fare. These drum species can live over 40 years and grow quite large, with slot-sized fish (20-28 inches) being most common in Texas waters. Their ability to thrive in various salinity levels makes them perfectly suited to Port Aransas's diverse coastal 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 flats, oyster reefs, and shallow bays where they hunt for crabs, shrimp, and small fish. These adaptable fish move between saltwater and brackish environments, following food sources and favorable water temperatures.
Redfish Size and Weight
Adult redfish typically range from 30 to 61 inches in length, weighing between 10 and 45 pounds. Texas slot limits protect the breeding population by requiring most harvested redfish to measure between 20 and 28 inches. Trophy-sized bull redfish over 40 inches provide incredible fights but are typically released to preserve the fishery.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Redfish are opportunistic feeders that hunt crabs, shrimp, mullet, and other baitfish in shallow water. They often feed with their heads down and tails up, creating distinctive wakes and mud clouds that alert observant anglers. Dawn and dusk feeding periods offer the best action, though redfish can be caught throughout the day when conditions are right.
Redfish Spawning Season
Redfish spawn in nearshore waters from late summer through fall, with peak activity occurring in September and October. During spawning season, large schools of bull redfish gather in deeper waters, creating spectacular fishing opportunities. Water temperatures between 70-85 degrees trigger spawning behavior and increased feeding activity.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Successful redfish techniques include sight fishing with topwater lures, drift fishing with live or cut bait, and working artificial lures around structure. Popular baits include live shrimp, cut mullet, and blue crab, while effective lures range from spoons and soft plastics to topwater plugs. In July around Port Aransas, anglers find success targeting redfish in shallow grass flats during early morning hours using light tackle and natural presentations.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. The flesh is lean and flakes easily when cooked, making it perfect for grilling, blackening, or frying. Redfish are high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury, making them a healthy seafood choice for families.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish?
A: Live shrimp, cut mullet, and blue crab are top natural baits, while gold spoons, soft plastic jigs, and topwater plugs work well for artificial presentations.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Port Aransas?
A: Look for redfish on shallow grass flats, around oyster reefs, in back bay areas, and along the surf zone where they hunt for crabs and baitfish.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish have firm white meat with a mild flavor that's excellent grilled, blackened, or fried. They're high in protein and omega-3s with relatively low mercury levels.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?
A: Early morning and late afternoon provide peak feeding activity, though redfish can be caught throughout the day. Summer months offer consistent action in Texas waters.
