Rockport Fishing Report
April 6, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – The bite is steadily continuing into this week as the Drum, Redfish and Seatrout turn up throughout the area. If you are fishing Hog Island in the grassy area anglers are finding Drum (Drum, Black). Reds (Drum, Red) are swimming the flats on the other side of the islands. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) can be found in the same areas taking Shrimp under a popping cork. Moving to the Big Bayou area we are finding nice Trout along the channel edges taking Shrimp under a popping cork or free lined Shrimp during the incoming tide. California Hole is fishing well in the potholes for Redfish using cut Menhaden, Mullet or Ladyfish. You can use the same setup around Dagger Island. Their bait preferences changes from day to day so it has been best to load up on all three. Behind Mud Island we are finding Black Drum and Redfish taking Shrimp under a popping cork. Trout can be caught in deeper water.
Capt. Doug Pirates of the Bay CHarters
361-523-9452
captdoug50@yahoo.com www.piratesofthebay.com
April 6, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good in Morris-Cummings Cut on free-lined Shrimp. Black Drum (Drum, Black) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on Crabs. Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good on the Estes Flats on Mullet and Crabs. Trout are good for waders on the St. Joe shoreline on topwaters. Through Port Aransas Redfish are fair to good at East Flats on gold spoons and small topwaters. Black Drum are good in the Shrimpboat Channel on Crabs and finger Mullet. Redfish, Trout and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
March 30, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – There has been plenty of Drum, Reds and Trout hooked in the area this week. Throughout big Bayou along the walls in the channel we are finding good Drum (Drum, Black) and Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) taking Shrimp under a popping cork. The backside of Grassy Island has been holding Drum with Reds (Drum, Red) mixed in. The key to catching them has been Sea Lice and Live Shrimp. On Pelican Island the Trout are doing well in the early morning during an incoming tide. Freelining Shrmip is your best bet to hook them. The Lydia Ann Channel has produced great sized Trout around the cut on freelined Shrimp. A handful of Reds are mixed in.
Capt. Doug Pirates of the Bay CHarters
361-523-9452
captdoug50@yahoo.com www.piratesofthebay.com
March 30, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good in the guts and channels on free-lined Shrimp. Trout are fair over grass while drifting with live Shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on the Estes Flats on Shrimp and topwaters. Around Port Aransas Redfish and Black Drum (Drum, Black) are fair to good at East Flats and around Dagger Island on Shrimp and Crabs. Trout, Redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
March 22, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Despite the wind the past few days there has still been some nice fish to take advantage of in the area. Fish around and inside the jetties for some shelter and you will find great numbers of Sheepshead, Redfish (Drum, Red), Pompano (Pompano, Florida), and Jacks (Jack, Crevalle). Shrimp has been working well to hook all of them. Bull Reds have also been turning up however they are preferring live finger Mullet. Moving over behind Hog Island we are finding nice Black Drum (Drum, Black) taking Shrimp around Grassy Island. Freelined Sea Lice have been a good alternative. The action has been great as the Spring Breakers have left and there is far less pressure on the fish. In Big Bayou the edges are holding Drum, Reds, and Trout taking Shrimp under apopping cork or Shrimp on a light weight sent straight down to the bottom along the channel edges. Drifting the California Hole has produced Trout and Redfish, again, on a popping cork with Shrimp. Finally, Hog Island has had the Reds and Trout turn on during the incoming tide. Flounder (Flounder, Southern) have also been hooked. Drifting gold spoons and artificials has worked well, along with Shrimp under a cork.
Capt. Doug Pirates of the Bay CHarters
361-523-9452
captdoug50@yahoo.com www.piratesofthebay.com
March 22, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Black Drum (Drum, Black) are fair to good in Morris-Cummings Cut on free-lined Shrimp. Black Drum (Drum, Black) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on Crabs. Through Port Aransas Black Drum are good in the Shrimpboat Channel on Crabs and finger Mullet. Redfish (Drum, Black) and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
March 15, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – There is a lot going on in the Port Aransas area this week. The bay is fishing well throughout the whole area. We are seeing Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) taking a variety of setups. Shrimp under a popping cork has produced great results along with jigs, plastics such as Berkley Gulp and live Shrimp on the bottom for the best bite. Black Drum and Sheepshead are mixed in on structure. Moving out to the edge of the Bayou there have been nice sized Trout, Black Drum (Drum, Balck), Sheepshead and big Whiting (Kingfish, Southern). Along the channel edges anglers have found Trout taking Shrimp or Berkley Gulp on an 8 ounce jighead. Bounce this setup on the bottom for the best bite. New Penny color has been successful. You can also use a popping cork and Shrimp in the California Hole to hook onto some nice Trout. If you are fishing the docks the Sheepshead bite has been on fire using live Shrimp. Beware to avoid the concrete blocks and falling metal in the area. You can also target tons of Redfish (Drum, Red), Whiting, Sand Trout (Seatrout, Sand) and Mangroves (Snapper, Gray) in the same water. There have even been a few Flounder (Flounder, Southern) popping up here and there. Towards the end of the North and South jetties the Sheepshead bite continues along with Bull Reds, slot Reds, and Jacks (Jack, Crevalle). They are all taking Shrimp as well. This has been the key bait, although large Finger Mullet will attract the bull Reds.
Capt. Doug Pirates of the Bay CHarters
361-523-9452
captdoug50@yahoo.com www.piratesofthebay.com
March 15, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good in Morris-Cummings Cut on free-lined shrimp. Black Drum (Drum, Black) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on Crabs. Trout are fair over grass while drifting with live Shrimp. Towards Port Aransas Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good at East Flats on Shrimp. Black Drum are good in the Shrimpboat Channel on Crabs and finger Mullet. Redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
March 9, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – This week at the docks we are finding Sheespshead, Black Drum (Drum, Black), slot Reds (Drum, Red), Bull Reds, Speckled Trout (Seatrout, Spotted), Sand Trout (Seatrout, Sand) and Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) all on live Shrimp. Around Pelican Island we are seeing Redfish, Sheepshead, Black Drum on the rocks taking live Shrimp. Nice Specks are mixed in. In front of Dagger Islands we are seeing Redfish on cut Finger Mullet or Popping cork with Shrimp. Drifting with artificials is also productive. Over in South Bay we are catching nice Redfish on a popping cork with Shrimp which is also hooking Black Drum and Trout. Off of Morris and Cummins Cut by Hog Island there are nice Redfish on the incoming tide. Trout and Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are showing up as well. They are all taking Shrimp, cut Mullet or live Mud Minnows. On the incoing tide beside Hog Island we are catching good sized Trout and Reds by drifitng with a popping cork and Shrimp. Over in Ingleside the big Black Drum are in full swing but be careful as they are still dredging the area. Use Shrimp and cut Crab to hook them. Crab flavored Fishbites are also productive.
Capt. Doug Pirates of the Bay CHarters
361-523-9452
captdoug50@yahoo.com www.piratesofthebay.com
March 9, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good in Morris-Cummings Cut on free-lined Shrimp. Black Drum (Drum, Black) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on Crabs. Trout are fair over grass while drifting with live Shrimp. Around Port Aransas Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good at East Flats on Shrimp. Black Drum are good in the Shrimpboat Channel on Crabs and finger Mullet. Redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
March 1, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good in Morris-Cummings Cut on free-lined Shrimp. Black Drum (Drum, Black) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on Crabs. Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good on the Estes Flats on Mullet and Crabs. Around Port Aransas Redfish are fair to good at East Flats on gold spoons and small topwaters. Black drum are good in the Shrimpboat Channel on Crabs and Finger Mullet. Redfish, Trout and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
February 24, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good in Morris-Cummings Cut on free-lined Shrimp. Black Drum (Drum, Black) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on Crabs. Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good on the Estes Flats on Mullet and Crabs. In Port Aransas Redfish are fair to good at East Flats on gold spoons and small topwaters. Black Drum are good in the Shrimpboat Channel on Crabs and finger Mullet. Redfish, Trout and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
February 17, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – There is a bit of wind this week. Your best bet is to head out around Goose Island into the East pocket. There should be Specks (Seatrout, Spotted) and Reds (Drum, Red) around Bird Point and the Island. Use subsurface lures to hook them. The action is typical for the time of year. Dropoffs are key for both Trout and Reds. Work your lures slower in the deeper water. Flats are also producing well around pilings and power lines. Trout are turning up consistently with a few Reds.
BAIT REPORT – Mullet are in the bay.
Pro Angler Team
February 16, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Around Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good in Morris-Cummings Cut on free-lined Shrimp. Black Drum (Drum, Black) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on Crabs. Trout are fair over grass while drifting with live Shrimp. Through Port Aransas Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good at East Flats on Shrimp. Black Drum are good in the Shrimpboat Channel on Crabs and finger Mullet. Redfish, Black Drum (Drum, Black) and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
February 10, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Pompano are being caught from the surf. Sheepshead are swimming the jetties and Robert’s Point Park. Oversized Drum (Drum, Black) to 38 lbs are also being caught at Robert’s Park. The North Jetty is holding limits or Reds (Drum, Red), Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and Sheepshead. Fish bites are the best setup into this week, especially for Pompano (Pompano, Florida), Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) and Sand Trout (Seatrout, Sand) on the surf.
OFFSHORE – Anglers are loading up on Red Snapper (Snapper, Red) this week. They are fairly far out. They are roughly 120 miles offshore.
Island Tackle
361-749-1744
February 10, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair on the edge of the ICW on glow. Around Port Aransas Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good on the ledges of the channel on Mullet. Sand Trout (Seatrout, Sand) are good on Shrimp in the channel.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
February 1, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good in the deep cuts on free-lined Shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good in California Hole on natural baits. Trout are fair on the edge of the shrimp boat channel on DOA Shrimp and Gulps. Around Port Aransas Redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp. Trout are fair at the mouths of guts on the outgoing tide.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
January 27, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Towards Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good in the deep cuts on free-lined shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good in California Hole on natural baits. Trout are fair on the edge of the Shrimp boat channel on DOA Shrimp and Gulps. In Port Aransas Redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp. Trout are fair at the mouths of guts on the outgoing tide.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
January 19, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and Black Drum (Drum, Black) are fair to good in the deep cuts on free-lined Shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on the flats with higher tides on gold spoons, plastics and Gulps. Towards Port Aransas Redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on shrimp. Trout are fair at the mouths of guts on the outgoing tide.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
January 11, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Hey anglers! In order to bring you valuable, up to date content such as regulations, GPS Hotspots, and BRAND NEW features the Pro Angler App Pro Reports will be returning the week of January 16, 2017. Please feel free to take a look at last week’s reports for an idea of what’s biting or give your favorite local bait shop a shout! The Pro Angler App looks forward to bringing you lots of exciting changes as we kick off 2017!
Pro Angler Team
January 5, 2017
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good at California Hole on Shrimp. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair on the edge of the ICW on glow DOA Shrimp. Redfish are fair to good on the edge of the Estes Flats on Mullet and Shrimp. Redfish are fair to good on the edge of the channel on Gulps and Mullet. Sand Trout (Seatrout, Sand) are good on Shrimp in the Channel.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
December 27, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on the edge of the flats on live Shrimp under a popping cork. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good on topwaters around shell in St. Charles Bay and Aransas Bay. Around Port Aransas Trout are fair to good on reefs on live Shrimp and Mullet. Bull Redfish are good at the jetty and on the beachfront on natural baits. We expect this to forecast into the holiday week. The Pro Angler Team wishes you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. We look forward to bringing you more great reports in 2017!
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
December 22, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on the edge of the flats on live Shrimp under a popping cork. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good on topwaters around shell in St. Charles Bay and Aransas Bay. Around Port Aransas Trout are fair to good on reefs on live Shrimp and Mullet. Bull Redfish are good at the jetty and on the beachfront on natural baits. We expect this to forecast into the holiday week. The Pro Angler Team wishes you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. We look forward to bringing you more great reports in 2017!
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
December 16, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on the edge of the flats on live Shrimp under a popping cork. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good on topwaters around shell in St. Charles Bay and Aransas Bay. In Port Aransas Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good on reefs on live Shrimp and Mullet. Bull Redfish are good at the jetty and on the beachfront on natural baits.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
December 9, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good on Corkies while working reefs. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good in Redfish Bay on Mullet and Crabs. Bull Redfish, Black Drum (Drum, Black) and Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on Shrimp and Mullet. In Port Aransas Redfish are fair at Shamrock on topwaters and plum soft plastics. Bull Redfish are good at the jetty and on the beachfront on natural baits.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
December 2, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good on Corkies while working reefs. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good in Redfish Bay on Mullet and Crabs. Bull Redfish, Black Drum (Drum, Black) and Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on Shrimp and Mullet. Around the Port Aransas area Redfish are fair at Shamrock on topwaters and plum soft plastics. Bull Redfish are good at the jetty and on the beachfront on natural baits.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
November 24, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair over grass while drifting with live shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good on the Estes Flats on Mullet and Shrimp. Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are fair to good along the edge of the ICW on Gulps. Towards Port Aransas Redfish are fair to good on the East Flats on topwaters and Gulps. Flounder are good for waders near Pelican Island on mud minnows and Gulps.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
November 18, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Redfish (Drum, Red) are good in Redfish Bay on Mullet and Crabs. Bull Redfish are good in the Shrimpboat Channel on Shrimp and Crabs. Around Port Aransas Redfish are good at Shamrock Cove and Pelican Island on topwaters and Gulps. Bull Redfish are good at the jetty and on the beachfront on natural baits.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
November 11, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair in the channel on free-lined shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good in Redfish Bay on Mullet and Ccrabs. Bull Redfish are good in the Lydia Ann Channel and around Mud Island on Shrimp and Crabs. Towards Port Aransas Redfish are fair at Shamrock Cove and Pelican Island on topwaters and Gulps. Bull Redfish are good at the jetty and on the beachfront on natural baits. Generally, the best time to fish is during a moving tide.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
November 4, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on Mullet on the Estes Flats and around Mud Island. Bull Redfish are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on Mullet and Crabs. In Port Aransas Redfish are fair to good on East Flats on topwaters and Gulps. Bull Redfish are good at the jetty and on the beachfront on natural baits.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
October 28, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Bull Redfish (Drum, Red) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on Crabs. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair over grass while drifting with live Shrimp. Redfish are good on the Estes Flats on Mullet and Shrimp. In Port Aransas Bull Redfish are good in the Shrimpboat Channel and at the jetty on Crabs and Finger Mullet. Redfish are good on the East Flats on topwaters and Gulps.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
October 21, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good on Mullet near Traylor Island. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair around Mud Island and Allyn’s Bight on small topwaters and soft plastics under corks. Redfish are fair to good in Copano Bay on the reefs and in the bayous. In Port Aransas Bull Redfish are good at the jetty on table Shrimp and Crabs. Redfish are good on the flats around Pelican Island on Gulps and shrimp.
OFFSHORE – Offshore is good for Amberjack (Jack, Amberjack Greater), Kingfish (Mackerel, King), Tuna (Tuna, Blackfin) and Dolphin.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
October 14, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on Mullet on the Estes Flats and around Mud Island. Bull Redfish are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on Mullet. In Port Aransas Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are good on the flats while wading with topwaters. Redfish are fair at East Flats on topwaters and Gulps. Bull Redfish are good at the jetty and on the beachfront on natural baits.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
October 14, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on Mullet on the Estes Flats and around Mud Island. Bull Redfish are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on Mullet. In Port Aransas Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are good on the flats while wading with topwaters. Redfish are fair at East Flats on topwaters and Gulps. Bull Redfish are good at the jetty and on the beachfront on natural baits.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
October 6, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Bull Redfish (Drum, Red) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on Crabs. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair over grass while drifting with live Shrimp. Redfish are fair to good on the Estes Flats on Mullet and Shrimp.Towards Port Aransas Bull Redfish are good in the Shrimpboat Channel and at the jetty on Crabs and Finger Mullet. Redfish are fair to good on the East Flats on topwaters and Gulps.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
September 30, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair over grass while drifting with live shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good on the Estes Flats on Mullet and Shrimp. In Port Aransas Bull Redfish are good at the jetty on Crabs and Finger Mullet. Redfish are fair to good on the East Flats on topwaters and Gulps.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
September 23, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good on mullet near Traylor Island. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair around Mud Island and Allyn’s Bight on small topwaters and soft plastics under corks. In Port Aransas Bull redfish are good at the jetty on table shrimp and crabs. Trout and Sand Trout (Seatrout, Sand) are good in the channel on shrimp. Trout are good on topwaters on Super Flats.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
September 16, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Hello Pro Anger readers! This is Capt. Johan Coombs out of Rockport Texas. This is one of my favorite times of year. The large summer crowds are gone and the first hints of fall are beginning to appear. The mesquite trees are dropping beans and the humming birds are franticly buzzing around looking for nectar. Soon the first cold front of the year will roll through and I will take a sigh of relief as the hot dog days are over. Not only do I recognize subtle changes in the environment, the fish do too. Cooler temperatures and shorter days trigger aggressive movement and feeding patterns in fish. As of lately I have seen some of the first signs in terms of fish behavior typically associated with the fall. A very large increase in the numbers of Redfish (Drum, Red) and where they are found is one sign. For much of the year Redfish live in back lakes difficult to fish and access by anything other than airboat. During the fall these fish leave the back lakes and visit the shorelines and shallow shell reefs in preparation for the annual Redfish migration. It is during this time that they can be easily targeted by out-board anglers. Cut and live Mullet is best for bait but as it gets cooler live Shrimp will also work. Another sign of change is the apatite and size of Speckled Trout (Seatrout, Spotted). For much of the year, live Croaker is the go to bait. Just as few days ago I took piggy Pperch and the Trout loved them, big ones too. This is typical for this time of year as Croaker become less abundant and piggy Perch become more abundant. The larger trout also start preparing for the winter by fattening up. They can be found in 1-5 foot of water over oyster beds but the larger ones tend to be shallow. Today (9/13) we were using piggy Perch for trout and the little ones were eating all of our bait. I moved shallower (2ft from 4ft), used larger baits and that was the ticket to limits of fat 20 inch Trout. Undoubtable my favorite part of the fall is the presence of Flounder (Flounder, Southern). For most of the year we catch a few here and there but nothing consistent. Now is the time to specifically target these tasty fish. My favorite way to target them is slowly bouncing soft plastics in creeks and sloughs. Find a creek or slough with bait and current and there’s a good chance you will find Flounder. The key is to fish slowly. Once you find one, make sure to cover the entire area vary strategically. Where you find one, most of the time you will find more. Don’t forget about your Striped friends (Drum, Black and Sheepshead). As the temperature drops and live Shrimp becomes available these tasty fish become easier catch. During the warmer months, the second a Shrimp hits the water it is instantaneously pecked away by Perch. Once the perch begin to move to deeper water for the winter one can effectively fish with shrimp. The most reliable methods are Shrimp fished on the bottom or with a popping cork over shallow shell or shoreline. With any luck the heat will end soon but their will definitely some more dog days left in store. You can bet that when that first cold front hits, I’ll be frolicking around with a leap in my step. I think that the fish will probably feel the same way and you can only guess that I’ll be hanging out with them. Until next time stay safe and catch some fish!
Capt. Johan Coombs Johan’s Fishing Guide Service
210-825-3727
www.johansrockportguideservice.com johan.bigmullet.coombs@gmail.com
September 16, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on mullet on the Estes Flats and around Mud Island. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and Redfish are good in the back of Allyn’s Bight. Towards Port Aransas Redfish are fair at East Flats and Shamrock Cove on topwaters and plastics under rattling corks. Trout are fair at the jetty on live Shrimp and piggy Perch.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
September 9, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Towards Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair over grass while drifting with live Shrimp and Gulps. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on piggy Perch and Shrimp around Mud Island and Estes Flats. In Port Aransas Trout, Redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp and Croakers.
OFFSHORE – Offshore is good for Dolphin, Ling (Cobia), Kingfish (Mackerel, King) and Tuna (Tuna, Bluefin).
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
September 2, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair over grass while drifting with live Shrimp and Gulps. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on piggy Perch and Shrimp around Mud Island and Estes Flats. In Port Aransas Trout, Redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp and Croakers.
OFFSHORE – Offshore is good for Dolphin, Ling (Cobia), Kingfish (Mackerel, King) and Tuna (Tuna, Bluefin).
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
August 26, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair over grass while drifting with live Shrimp and Gulps. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on piggy Perch and Shrimp around Mud Island and Estes Flats. In Port Aransas Trout, Redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp and Croakers. Black Drum (Drum, Black) are good on reef on Shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
August 19, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair in the guts and channels on free-lined Shrimp. Trout are fair over grass while drifting with live Shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good on piggy perch and Shrimp in the holes on the outgoing tide. Towards Port Aransas Trout, Redfish (Drum, Red) and Sheephead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp and finger Mullet. Redfish are fair to good around Pelican Island on Shrimp and Mullet.
OFFSHORE – Offshore is good for Dolphin, Ling (Cobia), Kingfish (Mackerel, King) and Tuna (Tuna, Yellowfin).
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
August 12, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Fishing has been a little bit slow this week but it is picking up. Flounder (Flounder, Southern) and Reds (Drum, Red) have been caught in the surf.
OFFSHORE – A lot of Snapper (Snapper, Red) and Cobia are biting offshore. There has been more action offshore than inshore so far.
BAIT REPORT – Bait are running the surf this week. Check out the new inventory arriving soon at The Saltwater Line!
Island Tackle
361-749-1744
August 4, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – A lot of Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are turning up on Croaker. Soft plastics and topwater will work as artificials. They are the main focus, especially early in the day. Drum (Drum, Black) and Redfish (Drum, Red) are taking Croaker and piggies. The fish are swimming the flats. They are biting in the afternoon. A few Flounder (Flounder, Southern) have turned up however they are scattered. Check out the new inventory arriving soon at The Saltwater Line!
The Saltwater Line
361-749-0070
July 27, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Trout (Seatrout, Spotted). are biting at the surf and around the jetties. They are also biting under the pier at Charlie’s Pasture. In the bay they are mixed in with Redfish (Drum, Red).
OFFSHORE – Wahoo and Dolphin are catching offshore about 30-50 miles off. Closer in the Kingfish (Mackerel, King) are a few miles out. Anglers are using dead ribbon fish to find them.
Port A Outfitters
361-749-3474
Info@islandtackle.com http://www.portaoutfitters.com/smf/index.php
July 22, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are good on small Super Spooks and She Pups while wading sand and grass. Trout are fair in the guts and channels on free-lined Shrimp. Trout are fair over grass while drifting with live Shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on mullet on the Estes Flats and around Mud Island. Towards Port Aransas Trout, redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp and Croakers. Redfish are good around Pelican Island on topwaters and live Shrimp.
OFFSHORE – Offshore is good for Kingfish (Mackerle, King), Ling (Cobia), Dorado (Dolphin) and Tuna (Tuna, Blackfin & Tuna, Yellowfin).
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
July 15, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are good on small Super Spooks and She Pups while wading sand and grass. Trout are fair in the guts and channels on free-lined Shrimp. Trout are fair over grass while drifting with live shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on mullet on the Estes Flats and around Mud Island. In Port Aransas Trout, Redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp and Croakers. Redfish are good around Pelican Island on topwaters and live Shrimp.
OFFSHORE – Offshore is good for Kingfish (Mackerel, King), Ling (Cobia), Dorado (Dolphin) and Tuna (Tuna, Bluefin).
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
July 7, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair in the guts and channels on free-lined Shrimp. Trout are fair over grass while drifting with live shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on mullet on the Estes Flats and around Mud Island.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
June 29, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good in the guts and channels on free-lined Shrimp. Trout are fair over grass while drifting with live shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair on the Estes Flats on finger Mullet. Towards Port Aransas Trout, Redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp and Croakers. Redfish are fair to good on the East Flats on topwaters and Gulps.
OFFSHORE – Offshore is good for Red Snapper (Snapper, Red), Kingfish (Mackerel, King) and Ling (Cobia).
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
June 24, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Hello Pro Angler Readers! This is Capt. Johan Coombs out of Rockport Texas. Summer is in full swing, the kids are out of school and the bays are crowded. Temperatures and heat indices are brutal but that’s no surprise, it’s Texas. Just as the predictable crowds and heat creep into the Texas coast the fish creep toward their summer homes and patterns. We (humans) tend to enjoy the air conditioner this time of year but when our friends and family are around we can tolerate the heat for a little while to hang out at the beach, river, lake or pool. Fish are much the same, they tend to live in cooler areas but given the opportunity they will go where their friends and food are even if the conditions are uncomfortable. Don’t lose this thread while reading the rest. As of just last week I was still catching nice Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) over sand and grass. A very profound shift of pattern occurred seemingly overnight. Maybe it was the crowds, water temperatures, moon, polar vortex, dark matter, black holes, who knows! All I know is the fish that I was catching on the shorelines where either gone or had lockjaw. I made some adjustments and found hungry fish in deeper water over shell. That’s typical for this time of year and the pattern seems to be holding. With this being said, I’m still seeing bait and slicks on the shorelines but every time I try nothing. Despite my frustration when seeing the signs and catching nothing, I’m strangely enlightened. The fish on the shorelines are on a different schedule, eating when opportunity presents itself. Slicks and bait for the presence of fish are a combination equivalent to that of dark clouds and lightning for thunder. Regardless of if you can catch them, they are probably there but if you can’t catch them you need to find the hangry (angry and hungry) fish. So where do you go? Head to deeper shell reefs, as of now 3.5 to 6.5 feet deep is where I have found them. That’s where the air conditioner is blowing cold and seafood buffets are. For Trout, live croaker is best but lures work well when the fish are hangry. As for Redfish (Drum, Red), they are similar but strangely different. If I catch a Redfish off of a deeper shell reef I am in shock. I’m not saying that it doesn’t happen but it would be an anomaly. The Redfish seem to bend the rules of common sense when it comes to predictability this time of year. Yes they are almost always shallow (2 foot or less). If they are not that shallow they are usually close by on a drop off or a deeper gut bordering the shallows. Keeper Redfish become very illusive during mid-summer months but they are there. Sometimes fishing the most obvious places can prove successful. Have you ever been annoyed by the guy anchored in the middle of the channel that boats are racing up and down? That guy might be me, but I normally set up with plenty of room for boats to pass by behind me. The fish living on the edge of channels are used to hearing boat traffic. It’s not uncommon for me to catch a fish 5 to 10 foot from the boat. It’s not as baffling as it might seem, simply think like a human. Where would you feel comfortable? That’s the key, we are all alive and inhabitants of this beautiful planet experiencing the same or similar sensations. Where would you go and what would you do if you were suddenly able to breath underwater. I bet that you would end up swimming side by side many fish all hangry but reaping the benefits of comfort. Until next time, be safe, respectable and catch some dang fish!
Capt. Johan Coombs Johan’s Fishing Guide Service
210-825-3727
www.johansrockportguideservice.com www.johan.bigmullet.coombs@gmail.com
June 17, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Throughout Rockport Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good in the guts and channels on free-lined Shrimp. Trout are fair to good over grass while drifting with live shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on Mullet on the Estes Flats and around Mud Island. Around the Port, Trout, Redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp and Croakers. Trout are good in the surf on topwaters and croakers.
OFFSHORE – Offshore is good for Red Snapper (Snapper, Red), Ling (Cobia) and Kingfish (Mackerel, King).
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
June 9, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – The Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are still swimming this week and anglers are having no trouble catching them in Rockport. They are loving the channels and free lining Shrimp seems to be the best way to hook them. Anglers can also search the grass and kelpy areas while drifting the Shrimp as an alternative. Redfish (Drum, Red) have also been caught in this area on Mullet. They are swimming the flats and around Mud Island. In the Port Aransas area we are seeing Trout, Redfish and Sheepshead again this week. They are holding up around the jetties and biting Shrimp and Croakers. Trout can also be found along the surf using Croakers on topwaters.
OFFSHORE – This week the Red Snapper (Rockfish, Vermillion), Lingcod and Kingfish (Mackerel, King) continue to bite.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
June 3, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport, Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good in the guts and channels on free-lined Shrimp. Trout are fair to good over grass while drifting with live shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on Mullet on the Estes Flats and around Mud Island. Around the Port, Trout, Redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp and Croakers. Trout are good in the surf on topwaters and Croakers.
OFFSHORE – Offshore is good for Red Snapper (Rockfish, Vermillion), Lingcod and Kingfish (Mackerel, King)
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
May 26, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Hello Pro Angler Readers, This is Capt. Johan Coombs in Rockport, TX. As of 5/24/2016 the trout bite remains steady, however the recent full moon provided some of the most epic redfish and trout action that I have seen in a long time. The full moon that occurs during May triggers the spawning cycle of large female speckled trout (Seatrout, Spotted). The 2-3 days prior to the full moon tends to be the best. This year the pattern was spot on and I’m already thinking about those days with nostalgia despite only 3 days passing. I’m a humble person and bragging is not my style nor my intention. My intention is to describe what makes this time of year special. Everyone is always looking for those big fish and numbers of them. One of the most important things to consider is that they are breeders and they are the future of the fishery. Specifically, I’m talking about speckled trout. Despite what most believe or know, the speckled trout spawns throughout the year, but the largest spawn occurs late winter through early summer depending on the conditions and the size of the fish. The full moon in March is one of the peak spawning periods for most speckled trout and as expected, 2 days before this full moon the big trout made their annual appearance. Epic is a powerful word considering its definition despite its size, but it can accurately describe one of my pre-full moon days of fishing. Catching a few limits of trout is not uncommon this time of year but releasing 7 trout over 25 inches in one day, combined with limits of good table trout (16-18 inch), limits of large slot reds (Drum, Red) and numerous released oversized reds equals the definition of epic. Fortunately every large female trout was released unharmed thanks to my anglers. I will never forget that day and I will most likely dream about it for years to come. Despite this May’s full moon being in the past, the table trout and large female trout are still around but they have developed lethargic behavior. Once the party is over and the beer is gone, everyone is going to bed fat dumb and happy. This is typical for post-heavy feeding cycles. A few days of epic fishing can be followed by a few days of slow fishing. Despite slow fishing, by the end of the day, limits of trout and a few reds was the post party result. Not bad considering post party behavior but no words can describe my aching muscles from pulling the anchor 20 times to catch 15 trout and 3 reds. I’m sleeping well tonight and that’s a fact. I guess I feel a little like the fish after the party. Hopefully tomorrow I wake up and feel new again and maybe the fish will feel the same way. I’ll be dreaming for a few hours about the epic days and I will be chasing another tomorrow. Until next time, stay safe and respect your elders, both fish and man. The older they are the more we should respect them. A client on my boat today released a 37 inch redfish. That fish was close to 20 years old and it deserved to swim free. I’m happy that it did, and I’ll be smiling in my sleep tonight thinking of it.
Capt. Johan Coombs
210-825-3727
www.johansrockportguideservice.com
May 20, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Hello Pro Angler Readers! This is Capt. Johan Coombs with some fishing updates. On Sunday May 16, Mother Nature decided to cry. I’m not so sure why she was so sad but she cried 12 to 18 inches of rain within 10 hours. The Beautiful green water of the bay turned stained reddish orange and every low-lying area imaginable turned into a lake. Strange currents existed in places that currents don’t exist parking lots, roads, ditches and front yards. Eventually, those currents pull the fresh water toward the salt water and it begins to mix and sometimes stratify. The normal consistent spring pattern that was just beginning to unfold got hit hard with a barrage of natural forces that will fuel the bay systems for months if not years to come. The question is, what will happen tomorrow? Neither I nor any of my friends have fished for the past two days and we are all cautiously optimistically to get back out and see what all the fresh water has done short term. Long term, freshwater inflow is undeniably good because it fuels the necessary components of the ecosystem needed for long term survival. Short term, fresh water could potentially throw the whole spring pattern off, but we will most likely make minor adjustments and continue to fish for the fish that are living within an ecosystem experiencing dynamic change in hydrology. The fish are definitely in the spring pattern for this time of year. They can tolerate a large amount of salinity change and they can thrive in almost fresh water for amounts of time, I saw this last year around the same time. In the spring of 2015 we had the so called drought buster rains that filled the Texas lakes and made every type of vegetation green (including seagrass). Birds were happy, fish were thankful and crabs had months of romance producing millions of offspring. Everything benefitted from the rain except for the beautiful green water. It had been 10 years prior to 2015 that I had seen red (fresh) water in the bays. I was again cautiously optimistic throwing that first live Croaker into fresh water runoff but to my surprise, that bait was hit and killed by a saltwater species apparently thirsty for some fresh water and hungry for Croaker. I spent a month fishing for nice Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) in water that did not look fishable and I was generously rewarded by seclusion, big boxes of fish, and easy days. I hope that tomorrow brings the same luck that I had last time this happened. If in doubt during situations like this, just remember the fish were there, they couldn’t have gone that far that fast, they need to eat and you should stick to the pattern until it proves otherwise despite the change in hydrology. I have a feeling that they might be hiding but I’ll find them just around the next bend. Until next time good luck fishing and don’t let a changing environment discourage you. The fish need to eat just as you need to fish.
Capt. Johan Coombs
210-825-3727
www.johansrockportguideservice.com
May 12, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Hello Pro Angler Readers! This is Captain Johan Coombs out of Rockport Texas. Fishing for Redfish (Drum, Red), Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and Drum (Drum, Black) remain very good. Weather dictates what species I target this time of year but every once in awhile you have those perfect conditions that are good for catching everything. My ideal conditions for a good all-around day with catching anything and everything is a Southeast wind at 10-15 mph and a high tide. These conditions allow you to fish where you want, there is enough wind for fish to feed but not so much that it become obnoxious and almost every species of fish responds to these conditions, thus providing the ultimate opportunity for an epic day. A few days ago I was blessed with these perfect conditions and it provided the perfect box of fish – limits of trout, redfish and drum. Not every day provides the perfect conditions. Actually, perfect conditions rarely exist and therefore it is best not to think about them. Every day I am dealt a new card and very seldom do I ever draw the same one. One day it’s 30 mph wind and trout fishing is tough, but Redfish and Drum are very possible. The next day it’s 5 mph wind and Redfish/Drum are tough but catching Trout is very possible. My best advice is to read the conditions this time of year. If the wind is blowing hard (20-30 mph), the best bet is Reds and Drum. If you want to catch Trout in these conditions look for protected water with hints of green on grass, sand, shell or combinations of those. If the wind is light (0-10 mph), the best bet is trout on shell or grass. If you want to catch reds and drum in light wind get ready to work hard. Look for mud boils, wakes, nervous bait and off colored water around green water. Even if you see the reds and drum they can be difficult to catch unless your presentation is perfect. As far as bait is concerned – Croaker for Trout, cut Mullet for Reds, dead Shrimp for Drum, live Shrimp for mixed boxes. That is the best assortment of live and dead bait that you can have available this time of year. As far as lures are concerned – topwaters for Reds or Trout, paddle tail plastics of various colors (I prefer natural colors vs. vibrant), gold spoons for Reds and Berkley Gulp works for just about everything. It’s getting busy on the water with late spring and early summer ahead of us. Make sure to be respectful of other on and off the water. At bait stands, wait your turn, put your lights on dim and park according to others. At the boat ramp, get everything ready before you approach the ramp, dim your lights and launch as quickly but safely as possible. On the water, respect your distance from others and try not to burn shorelines. Using a shoreline for protection from wind while running is sometimes necessary, but there is no need to kill grass or disturb fish that you are not fishing for; drive with enough distance for a comfortable ride while allowing other fisherman and fish to feel comfortable. Until next time, stay safe, have fun and catch some fish!
Capt. Johan Coombs
210-825-3727
www.johansrockportguideservice.com
May 6, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Hello Pro Angler Readers, This is Capt. Johan Coombs with Johan’s Fishing Guide Service in Rockport Texas. The transition from spring to summer patterns is currently in place. As of today May 2, the last major cold front of this spring arrived. The front hit with 30 mph winds gusting to near 40 mph. This was Old Man Winter’s last chance to leave an impression and he did. I’m still feeling the wind burn and finding salt crystals in places I shouldn’t. As of lately, Redfish (Drum, Red) and Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) have been very consistent. Live croaker are big enough and Trout are beginning to show up on the deep grass beds. Trout are also on mid bay shell reefs but grass is providing larger and more consistent fish. I like to use a 25lb monofilament leader with two Red glass beads directly above a 4-5 size hook. If the Croaker are medium to large you can skip the beads, they will make enough noise and are heavy enough to cast. This is the time of year to fish for Trout early. From now until late summer most of the best Trout action will occur at first light but mid-day Trout bites are not uncommon. As for Redfish, a variety of baits can produce. Shad (Menhaden), Cut Mullet, live finger Mullet and various plastics and topwater lures will work depending on your preferred approach. Redfish can be found in sandy potholes near islands and shell. The presence of bait is a dead giveaway. Find the structure, then locate the structure within the structure and add the presence of nervous bait, That is my recipe for success. During high wind situations you can also look for shorelines that contain Spartina grass (shore grass). Fish the windward shorelines with the most abundant shore grass. Focus on points and creeks containing either shell or sandy potholes. I am grateful that today is over despite catching some nice fish. I can handle a stretch of weeks or months without 30 mph wind. I know the wind will be back, most likely from the south and I will take advantage of it while fishing for Redfish. Those stagnant dog days are knocking on the door and I have already had a few. Be ready for trout when the winds get lite and the heat turns up. Until next time, stay safe and remember to respect other boaters with the high season underway. You can make a big difference in everyone’s day by being considerate and mindful of others.
Capt. Johan Coombs
210-825-3727
www.johansrockportguideservice.com
April 29, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport, Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good in the guts and channels on free-lined Shrimp. Trout are fair over grass while drifting with live Shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on the Estes Flats on Shrimp and topwaters. Around the port, Redfish and Black Drum (Drum, Black) are fair to good at East Flats and around Dagger Island on Shrimp and Crabs. Trout, Redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
April 22, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport, Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good on Shrimp and Mullet on the Estes Flats. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair over grass while drifting with live Shrimp and topwaters. Around the port, Redfish are fair to good at East Flats on Shrimp. Redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp. Trout are good on topwaters at Super Flats.
Texas Parks & Wildlife Department
http://tpwd.texas.gov/
April 15, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Around Rockport, Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair over grass while drifting with live Shrimp. Trout are fair to good in St. Charles Bay on topwaters while working reefs. In Port Aransas the Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good at East Flats on Shrimp. Redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife Department
http://tpwd.texas.gov/
April 1, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Hello Pro Angler Readers.
This is Capt. Johan Coombs in Rockport Texas. Fishing has really began to show signs of spring. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted), Redfish (Drum, Red), Drum (Drum, Black) and even some Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are biting fairly well. On calm days I focus my attention on Trout. We have been catching them in about 3 to 4 mixed mud and shell. Look for the drop offs around the reefs. I prefer water that is slightly off colored, a sandy green is ideal. Shrimp and popping cork works well. If you are catching lots of undersize fish, switch to a bull Minnow plastic, Texas Tackle Factory makes the ones I prefer.
I’m really excited to see some Redfish showing up in the mix. The best bait has been live Shrimp or cut Mullet. The Shrimp can either be fished under a cork or on the bottom while the Mullet should be fished on the bottom. The Redfish are shallow, and I’m talking vary shallow. Look for the Redfish on windblown shorelines containing spartina shore grass. If you can find some shell close to the shore grass, even better. You don’t need clean water to catch Redfish, as a matter of fact they prefer dirty water. Don’t pass up a spot just because the water looks like chocolate milk. The drum are showing up mostly on shell reefs but I have found some on the shorelines.
The Drum prefer live or dead Shrimp. If using live Shrimp it actually helps to kill the Shrimp by pinching its head off to release scent. Fish the Shrimp on the bottom. Look for Drum in muddy or off colored water as well.
Flounder are becoming more prevalent as the water warms. If trying to target Flounder look to the creeks and channel edges. The best bait is live mud Minnows but soft plastics can work as well. Regardless of what you are using for bait, fish it slow while bouncing it across the bottom. If you happen to lose or miss one, they will most likely eat again soon after despite being hooked. I prefer the water to be a sandy green but they can also tolerate the muddy water. Until next time, stay safe and enjoy the spring air!
Capt. Johan Coombs
210-825-3727
www.johansrockportguideservice.com
Capt. Johan Coombs
210-825-3727
www.johansrockportguideservice.com
March 24, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Hello Pro Angler Readers! This is Capt. Johan Coombs out of Rockport, TX. Spring break is a busy time for me and that means no break. I remember when this time was once a vacation for me. Spring break now consists of long hard days on the water vs. lazy days on the beach for me. For the fisherman, this is the time of year that means, “The beginning”. The beginning for me means the start of fish actively feeding. The winter months can have good days and bad depending on the weather. Once the water temperature approaches 70 degrees, every species of fish on the Texas coast seems to make their appearance. This means that Trout (Seatrout, Spotted), Redfish (Drum, Red), and Drum (Drum, Black)(the big 3) will be my main targets. As of now, Trout have been my focus. I am catching lots of Trout using live Shrimp and popping corks as well as soft plastics. A 1/16 ounce jig head paired with olive colored Kelly Wigglers proved deadly a few days ago. The Trout are hanging out over a mixture of mud and shell. On warm days, they can be found over sand and grass as well as solid shell. There are lots of undersized fish mixed in with the keepers so take special care when releasing the little guys, they are tomorrow’s fish. If you are looking for a big Trout, fish the shorelines with a mix of mud and shell. On warm days try the sand and grass. For big trout use Corky Fat Boys, top waters such as Super Spook or sand eels of various color. Black drum have been found on some days, while other days they are elusive. For now, they seem to be hanging out near shell in less than 3 feet of water. Dead Shrimp fished on the bottom is the key to catching these delicious fish. Redfish remain difficult to find unless you are wade fishing or in an airboat, as they are in extremely shallow water. The best baits to use for Redfish in the spring are cut Mullet, Crab, sea lice and live Shrimp. With lots of boats on the water, be aware of your surroundings and other fisherman. Fishing etiquette is important for everyone. Respect your distance, where you drive, and what you drive over. Be courteous at the bait stand by parking where other boats can access the water pump and hose. The same goes for the boat ramp; if it is a double ramp make sure to use only one side so two boats can launch. Always prepare to launch your boat away from the ramp in order to reduce congestion. Always dim your lights while at the bait stand or ramp so others are not blinded when trying to back up. These are just a few tips that will prevent early morning frustration. May your fishing be catching and be careful!
Capt. Johan Coombs
210-825-3727
www.johansrockportguideservice.com
March 17, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – In Rockport, the Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good in Morris Cummings Cut on free lined Shrimp. Black Drum (Drum, Black) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on crabs. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good in the back of Allyn’s Bight on Gulps and Crabs. In Port Aransas the Trout are fair on the East Flats on Gulps under a popping cork. Black Drum are good in the Shrimp boat Channel on Crabs and finger Mullet. Redfish and Sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on Shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
http://tpwd.texas.gov/
March 4, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good in Morris-Cummings Cut on free-lined shrimp. Drum (Drum, Black) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on crabs. Trout are fair over grass while drifting with live shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
February 26, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good in Morris-Cummings Cut on free-lined shrimp. Drum (Drum, Black) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on crabs. Trout are fair over grass while drifting with live shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
February 19, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Drum (Drum, Black) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on crabs. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair over grass while drifting with live shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair on the Estes Flats on crabs and mullet.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
February 10, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair on the edge of the ICW on glow DOA Shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good in the holes on the Estes Flats on Mullet and Shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
(512) 389-4800
http://tpwd.texas.gov/
February 4, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair on the edge of the ICW on glow DOA Shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good in the holes on the Estes Flats on mullet and shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
January 27, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair on the edge of the ICW on glow DOA Shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good on the Estes Flats and in California Hole on mullet and shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
January 22, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Redfish (Drum, Red) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on crabs. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair over grass while drifting with live shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
January 15, 2016
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Redfish (Drum, Red) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on crabs. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair over grass while drifting with live shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
December 23, 2015
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Trout (Seatrout, Sand & Seatrout, Spotted) are fair on the edge of the ICW on glow DOA Shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good in the holes and the Estes Flats on Mullet and Shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
December 18, 2015
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Trout (Seatrout, Sand & Seatrout, Spotted) are fair on the edge of the ICW on glow DOA Shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good along the Estes Flats on Mullet and Shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
December 11, 2015
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Trout (Seatrout, Sand & Seatrout, Spotted) are fair on the edge of the ICW on glow DOA Shrimp. Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good on the Estes Flats on Mullet and Shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
http://tpwd.texas.gov/fishboat/fish/action/reptform1.php?water=Salt
December 4, 2015
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Trout (Seatrout, Sand & Seatrout, Spotted) are fair on the edge of the channel on glow DOA Shrimp and Gulps. Redfish (Drum, Red) are fair to good in the holes along the Estes Flats on Mullet and Shrimp.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
www.tpwd.texas.gov
November 26, 2015
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on the edge of the flats on live shrimp under a popping cork. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted & Seatrout, Sand) are fair to good on topwaters around shell in St. Charles Bay and Aransas Bay.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
http://tpwd.texas.gov/
November 20, 2015
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Redfish (Drum, Red) are good on the edge of the flats on live Shrimp under a popping cork. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are fair to good on topwaters around shell in St. Charles Bay and Aransas Bay.
Texas Parks & Wildlife
800-792-1112
https://tpwd.texas.gov
November 13, 2015
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Trout (Seatrout, Spotted & Seatrout, Sand) are fair in St. Charles Bay on soft plastics and topwaters while working reefs. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good in Redfish Bay on mullet and crabs. Bull redfish are good in the Lydia Ann Channel and around Mud Island on shrimp and crabs.
TPWD
http://tpwd.texas.gov/
November 6, 2015
Rockport Fishing Report
INSHORE – Trout (Seatrout, Spotted & Seatrout, Sand) are fair in St. Charles Bay on Corkies while working reefs. Redfish (Drum, Red) are good in Redfish Bay on mullet and crabs. Bull redfish, Drum (Drum, Black) and Flounder (Flounder, Gulf & Flounder, Southern) are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on shrimp and mullet.
TPWD
http://tpwd.texas.gov/
Rockport Fishing Report
DISCLAIMER:
Since fishing conditions change from minute to minute we try to keep our reports as updated as possible. The United States is a large country, so we try to keep our Rockport Fishing Report updated once a week. If you would like to contribute to the Rockport Fishing Report, feel free to email your fishing tips to mike@proangler.us. We rely on even small contributions to inform us that fishing conditions have changed so we can update the Rockport Fishing Report.
The Rockport Fishing Report is brought to you by the Pro Angler team and many, many, highly skilled Captains and bait shop owners.
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