The Fishing Capital of Texas

Port Aransas has earned its title as the “Fishing Capital of Texas” through generations of exceptional angling opportunities. Whether you prefer battling offshore game fish, stalking redfish in the shallows, or simply casting from the jetties at sunset, Port A delivers unforgettable fishing experiences year-round.

Offshore & Deep Sea Fishing

Port Aransas serves as the gateway to some of the Gulf of Mexico's finest offshore fishing grounds. Charter boats depart daily from the harbor, heading to oil platforms, artificial reefs, and blue water to pursue trophy game fish.

Offshore anglers target species including red snapper (during open season), kingfish, cobia, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and yellowfin tuna. Extended trips to the deeper waters can produce sailfish, marlin, and swordfish. The Gulf's warm waters ensure productive fishing throughout the year, with peak seasons varying by species.

Popular Offshore Species

• Red Snapper — Season varies; check regulations
• King Mackerel — Year-round, best March-October
• Mahi-Mahi (Dorado) — May through September
• Yellowfin Tuna — Summer months in deep water
• Cobia — Spring migration brings excellent action

Bay & Inshore Fishing

The bays, channels, and grass flats surrounding Port Aransas offer exceptional inshore fishing for redfish, speckled trout, black drum, and flounder. These calmer waters are ideal for wading, kayak fishing, or drift fishing with a guide.

Corpus Christi Bay, Redfish Bay, and the Lydia Ann Channel provide diverse habitats that hold fish year-round. Experienced guides know the seasonal patterns and can put you on fish whether you're sight-casting for tailing reds or working the grass beds for trophy trout.

Inshore Target Species

• Redfish (Red Drum) — Year-round; fall is prime
• Speckled Trout — Best spring and fall
• Black Drum — Spring spawning run is legendary
• Flounder — Fall run provides excellent action
• Sheepshead — Winter months around structures

Jetty & Pier Fishing

The Port Aransas jetties are among the most productive shore-fishing spots on the Texas coast. The granite boulders attract baitfish, which in turn draw game fish close to shore. Anglers of all ages and skill levels can enjoy fishing from the jetties with minimal equipment.

The south jetty is accessible by vehicle and foot, while the north jetty requires boat access. Common catches include speckled trout, redfish, Spanish mackerel, jack crevalle, and occasional tarpon. The jetties also provide excellent opportunities for catching bait, particularly mullet and piggy perch.

Pier Options

• Horace Caldwell Pier — Lighted, extends into the Gulf
• South Jetty — Drive-on accessible, excellent variety
• Charlie's Pasture — Popular wading spot

Surf Fishing

Port Aransas offers 18 miles of Gulf beach, all of which are accessible for surf fishing. Beach anglers target pompano, whiting, red drum, and sharks. The ability to drive on most of the beach makes it easy to find productive spots away from the crowds.

Fall is particularly productive for surf fishing, when migrating fish move along the beach in large numbers. Early morning and evening hours typically produce the best action, though shark fishing picks up after dark.

Tarpon: The Silver King

No discussion of Port Aransas fishing is complete without mentioning tarpon. The “Silver King” gave the town its original name and drew sportsmen from across the nation during the golden age of tarpon fishing in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

While tarpon populations have fluctuated over the years, these magnificent fish still visit Port Aransas waters, particularly during summer months. Catching a tarpon from the jetties remains one of fishing's great thrills, connecting modern anglers with over a century of Port Aransas fishing history.

Best Fishing Seasons