Ready for a day on the water that'll have the whole family hooked? Bent Rod Guide Service's 8-hour inshore charter in Rockport is just the ticket. We're talking calm waters, plenty of fish, and memories that'll last a lifetime. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your kiddo's first time holding a rod, this trip's got something for everyone. So grab your hat and let's hit the flats!
We'll meet bright and early at 7 AM, perfect timing to catch those fish when they're hungry. The boat's stocked with everything you need - rods, reels, and tackle for two, with room for two more if you want to bring the whole crew. Just remember, there's a $75 bait fee to split, but trust me, it's worth every penny when you're reeling in the big ones. We'll be cruising the inshore waters, targeting some of Rockport's most prized catches: Redfish, Black Drum, and Sea Trout. The best part? The pace is nice and easy, so even the little ones can get in on the action without feeling overwhelmed.
Inshore fishing in Rockport is a whole different ballgame from deep sea angling. We'll be working the shallows, where the water's clear and you can often spot fish before you even cast. I'll show you how to read the water, looking for telltale signs like baitfish jumping or birds diving. We might do some drift fishing over grass flats or post up near oyster reefs where the big reds like to hang out. And don't worry if you're new to this - I'll walk you through everything from baiting your hook to setting the drag. By the end of the day, you'll be casting like a pro and maybe even giving me a run for my money!
Redfish are the rockstars of Rockport's inshore scene. These copper-colored beauties put up a fight that'll have your drag singing. They love hanging around structure, so we'll target them near oyster reefs and grass flats. The "bull" reds can grow over 40 inches, but even the smaller ones will give you a workout. Fall is prime time for reds, but we catch 'em year-round here.
Black Drum might not be the prettiest fish in the sea, but what they lack in looks, they make up for in taste. These cousins of the redfish can grow to over 30 pounds inshore. They're bottom feeders, so we'll use techniques like bottom bouncing or fishing with crab to entice them. Spring is when they really start biting, but you can catch them most of the year.
Sea Trout, or Speckled Trout as we call 'em, are the bread and butter of inshore fishing. They're abundant, feisty, and delicious. We'll target them with soft plastics or live bait, working the edges of grass flats or around structures. The bigger ones, called "gator trout," can push 30 inches and put up one heck of a fight. These guys bite year-round, but summer and fall are especially good.
Folks love fishing Rockport's inshore waters because it's just so darn accessible. You don't need to be a pro or have sea legs of steel to have a great time out here. The waters are calm, the fish are plentiful, and the scenery can't be beat. Plus, there's nothing quite like the thrill of seeing a redfish tail in the shallows or watching your kid's face light up when they land their first trout. It's not just about the fish - it's about making memories and connecting with nature. And let's be honest, bragging rights at the dinner table when you're chowing down on your fresh catch don't hurt either!
If you're looking for a family-friendly fishing trip that'll have everyone talking for years to come, this Rockport inshore charter is your ticket. With calm waters, a relaxed pace, and a boatload of fish just waiting to be caught, it's the perfect way to spend a day on the water. Whether you're teaching the kids to fish or just want to wet a line yourself, Bent Rod Guide Service has got you covered. So what are you waiting for? Grab your sunscreen, pack some snacks, and let's make some waves (and catch some fish) together. Book now and get ready for a day of reelin', relaxin', and making memories that'll last a lifetime. Trust me, the fish are calling, and you don't want to miss this call!
Black Drum are the heavyweights of the drum family, often reaching 30 pounds or more. You'll find them in our shallow bays and estuaries, especially around oyster beds and mudflats. They're bottom feeders with a taste for shellfish, so we target them with fresh crab or shrimp. Spring's the prime time when they school up to spawn, making them easier to locate. Drum put up a solid fight, and the smaller ones (under 15 pounds) make great table fare. Listen for their distinctive croaking sound - it's how they got their name. Pro tip: when you're fishing the flats, look for their tails sticking up out of the water as they root around for food. It's a dead giveaway and can lead to some exciting sight fishing.
Redfish are the rockstars of our inshore waters. You'll spot 'em by that trademark black dot near the tail. Most run 20 to 30 inches, but we occasionally hook into some real bruisers over 40 inches. They love skinny water - I'm talking 1 to 4 feet deep. Look for 'em tailing on the flats, especially around oyster reefs and seagrass. These guys will eat just about anything, but they go nuts for live shrimp or crabs. Fall's prime time when they school up, but you can catch 'em year-round. Reds are famous for their powerful runs and they taste great too. For a real thrill, try sight-casting to them with topwater lures. Just remember, if you see their backs out of the water, you're probably spooking them already.
Sea Trout, or Specks as we call 'em, are a favorite around here. These silvery fish usually run 14 to 24 inches, with some monsters pushing 5 pounds or more. You'll find them hanging around grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They're ambush predators, so look for them near structure or drop-offs. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but winter can be great too if you know where to find the deep holes they school in. Trout are known for their light, flaky meat and put up a good fight on light tackle. They're suckers for topwater lures at dawn and dusk - nothing beats that surface explosion when they strike. Local trick: try a slow retrieve with a soft plastic shrimp imitation. Gets 'em every time.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Mercury 250 pro XS
Maximum Cruising Speed: 25
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250