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Southern Flounder Success While Wade Fishing Port Aransas
Southern Flounder Wade Fishing in Port Aransas, TX
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The Southern Flounder belongs to the order Pleuronectiformes and family Paralichthyidae. It typically measures between 12 and 33 inches in length, with a weight range from 1 to 4 lbs. Habitat: onshore, inshore, channels, rivers. - Distinguished by both eyes positioned on the left side of its head. - Lacks spines on its fins and has a separate caudal fin. - Often mistaken for Summer Flounder but has distinguishing light and dark markings.
Fishing Charter & Guided Hunts by Captain Cory Russell in December
Meet your Captain Cory Russell
- Best Port Aransas Fishing Charter
Summary
Captain Cory Russell of Russell & Sons Outdoors leads wade fishing charters on Monday November targeting Southern Flounder, Speckled Trout, and Redfish in the shallow flats around Port Aransas, TX. This 4-hour morning wade fishing adventure puts you right in prime sight fishing territory where artificial lures and light tackle produce consistent results. Port Aransas offers some of the best inshore fishing opportunities on the Texas coast, with crystal-clear shallows perfect for spotting trophy fish cruising the flats. Whether you're new to wade fishing or looking to refine your sight fishing techniques, these productive waters deliver year-round action for anglers willing to get their boots wet. The trip includes expert guidance on reading water conditions, selecting the right lures, and positioning yourself for the perfect cast when that big redfish or flounder appears in the shallows.
Fishing Charter with Captain Cory Russell – Rates & Booking
Captain Cory Russell of Russell & Sons Outdoors on Monday November offers a 4 Hour Wade Fishing Trip in Port Aransas Morning for $400 per trip accommodating up to 2 guests. This wade fishing charter includes expert guidance on the flats, artificial lure techniques, and sight fishing instruction from a licensed local guide with years of experience in Port Aransas waters. Rod rentals available for additional fee, and guests should bring or rent waders locally. A 20% cash tip is appreciated after each successful trip. Book online or call to check availability and secure your wade fishing adventure on the Texas coast.
Highlights of 4 Hour Wade Fishing Trip in Port Aransas Morning
This wade fishing experience puts you directly in the heart of Port Aransas flats fishing territory, where shallow waters and clear visibility create perfect conditions for sight fishing Southern Flounder, Speckled Trout, and Redfish. Captain Cory specializes in artificial lure techniques that consistently produce results on these productive flats, teaching guests how to read water conditions and spot fish cruising the shallows.
The morning timing takes advantage of optimal feeding periods when fish are most active in the shallow waters. Port Aransas flats offer some of the most consistent wade fishing opportunities on the Texas coast, with diverse structure including grass beds, sand pockets, and drop-offs that hold different species throughout the tide cycles.
Local Species Insights: Southern Flounder
Southern Flounder thrive in the shallow inshore waters around Port Aransas, using their flat body design to ambush prey from sandy bottoms and grass edges. These masters of camouflage position themselves in channels, river mouths, and along structure where baitfish and crustaceans move with the tides. November conditions in Port Aransas create excellent opportunities as flounder concentrate in predictable areas before their winter migration, making them prime targets for wade fishing with artificial lures and sight fishing techniques.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your wade fishing adventure begins with a morning meeting where Captain Cory provides guidance on water conditions, tide timing, and lure selection for the day's fishing. The trip accommodates up to 2 guests and focuses on teaching proper wade fishing techniques while targeting multiple species on the flats. All safety equipment is provided, and the captain offers instruction on reading water, spotting fish, and presenting lures effectively in shallow water situations. Guests should bring sun protection, drinking water, and be prepared for an active fishing experience in knee-deep water.
Fishing & Hunting in Port Aransas, TX: Southern Flounder
Southern Flounder (Paralichthys lethostigma) are flatfish belonging to the order Pleuronectiformes and family Paralichthyidae. These distinctive fish are easily recognized by their flat, oval body shape and both eyes positioned on the left side of their head. In Port Aransas waters this November, Southern Flounder are prime targets for wade fishing enthusiasts seeking a challenging and rewarding catch.
Southern Flounder Overview
Southern Flounder are masters of camouflage, using their flat body design to blend seamlessly with sandy and muddy bottoms. They're highly prized by anglers for their fighting ability and excellent table fare. These fish are ambush predators that rely on stealth and quick strikes to capture prey, making them exciting targets for sight fishing on the flats.
Southern Flounder Habitat and Distribution
These flatfish inhabit onshore and inshore waters, frequenting channels, rivers, bays, and shallow flats throughout the Gulf Coast. Around Port Aransas, they're commonly found in grass beds, sand pockets, and along drop-offs where they can ambush passing baitfish and crustaceans. They prefer areas with good water circulation and access to deeper channels.
Southern Flounder Size and Weight
Southern Flounder typically range from 12 to 33 inches in length, with most fish weighing between 1 to 4 pounds. Larger specimens over 20 inches are considered trophy fish and provide excellent sport on light tackle. The Texas state record Southern Flounder weighed over 6 pounds.
Southern Flounder Diet and Behavior
These opportunistic predators feed on small fish, shrimp, crabs, and marine worms. They're most active during moving tides when prey is displaced and vulnerable. Southern Flounder are ambush hunters that bury themselves in sand or mud with only their eyes exposed, waiting for unsuspecting prey to pass within striking distance.
Southern Flounder Spawning Season
Southern Flounder spawn in offshore waters during fall and winter months, typically from October through February. During this period, they migrate from inshore areas to deeper Gulf waters. This migration pattern makes fall an excellent time for targeting them in shallow waters before they move offshore.
Southern Flounder Fishing Techniques
Wade fishing with artificial lures is highly effective for Southern Flounder. Top techniques include using soft plastic baits, spoons, and jigs worked slowly along the bottom. Sight fishing allows anglers to spot flounder lying on sandy bottoms and present baits precisely. In November around Port Aransas, anglers find success using light-colored jigs and soft plastics in shallow grass beds and sand flats during moving tides.
Southern Flounder Is It Good to Eat?
Southern Flounder are considered excellent table fare with mild, white, flaky meat that's low in fat and high in protein. They're versatile fish that can be prepared by frying, baking, grilling, or broiling. The meat is sweet and delicate, making it popular among both recreational and commercial fishermen.
Southern Flounder Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Southern Flounder?
A: Live shrimp, finger mullet, and soft plastic jigs are top choices. Artificial lures like spoons and soft plastics worked slowly along the bottom are very effective for wade fishing.
Q: Where can I find Southern Flounder near Port Aransas?
A: Look for them in shallow grass beds, sand flats, channel edges, and around structure in 2-6 feet of water. They prefer areas with good tidal flow and access to deeper water.
Q: Is Southern Flounder good to eat?
A: Yes, Southern Flounder are excellent eating with mild, white, flaky meat that's perfect for frying, baking, or grilling. They're considered one of the best-tasting inshore fish.
Q: When is the best time to catch Southern Flounder?
A: Fall months like November are prime time as flounder concentrate before their offshore migration. Fish during moving tides, especially early morning and late afternoon.
More species you can explore on this trip
Russell & Sons Outdoors Available Trips
Other customer memories from this trip
Ready for an awesome wade fishing adventure in Port Aransas? Capt. Cory knows all the sweet spots where trophy redfish, sea trout, and southern flounder hang out. You'll be wading through shallow waters, casting your line, and feeling the rush when you get a bite. Whether you're a pro angler or just starting out, this trip is perfect for honing your skills. Don't forget to bring your waders, or you can rent some in town. We've got rods available too if you need them. After 4 hours of fishing the flats, you'll be hooked on this unique way to experience the Texas coast. Remember to bring some cash for the customary 20% tip at the end of your trip. Get ready to make some waves and catch some memories in Port Aransas!
