Port Aransas, Texas, more fondly known by locals as Port A, is a laid-back island town located along the stunning Texas Gulf Coast. This exceptional destination has captured the hearts of fishing enthusiasts far and wide.
As you can imagine, based on where it’s located, Port Aransas has a plethora of marine life and a ton of diverse fishing spots, making it an angler’s paradise like no other.
From its pristine beaches and legendary jetties to its deep-sea fishing grounds, you’ll find some of the best year-round fishing spots that are bursting with sought-after game fish, including redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and even the occasional trophy-sized tarpon. And when you’ve worked up an appetite out on the Horace Caldwell Pier, Port A is heaving with great eatery options.
Staying at a Port Aransas vacation home? Add some Port A fishing to your list! This is everything you need to know about catching dinner onthe island.
Best Fishing Spots in Port Aransas
With waters all around, there are an insane amount of prime fishing spots in the Port Aransas area. Moreover, you’ll find just a place perfect for whatever type of fishing you’re looking for. Below are some of the most popular Port Aransas fishing locations.
Bay Fishing Spots
If you’re looking for inshore fishing spots, you’ll find plenty of bays to choose from. If you’re looking for a great fishing spot around Port Aransas, look no further than the bountiful bays in the area.
Corpus Christi Bay offers some of the best redfish and speckled trout fishing around, while Aransas Bay is known for its excellent flounder fishing. And let’s not forget about Redfish Bay, which is named for a reason! This bay is home to some of the area’s biggest and most abundant redfish.
Pier-Fishing off the Horace Caldwell Pier
The Horace Caldwell Pier is a central landmark in Port Aransas. Stretching out into the Gulf of Mexico waters, it beckons to anglers of all ages – the perfect spot to cast a line and relax or take little ones on their first fishing trip!
The facilities at the pier are second to none. You can fish 24 hours a day since the pier is lit. And, with fish cleaning stations, an on-site bait shop where you can buy lures, bait, and fishing gear, and an easy-to-reach location in town, it’s no wonder why this is most people’s first stop on their vacation itinerary.
There is a fee of $3 per person and $4 per fishing pole to fish off the pier.
Deep-Sea Fishing in Port A
If you’re looking for the fishing experience of a lifetime, you likely want to book a trip with a fishing guide on a deep-sea fishing charter. Fisherman’s Wharf offers private and party deep-sea fishing charters in Port Aransas, while Dolphin Dock hosts extended charters for maximum fishing time!
Surf Fishing
Post up along the coastline and reel in some fantastic inshore catches from the sand. These less-glamorous locations can be some of the best places to catch a variety of fish, depending on which side you cast.
The bay is the perfect surf-fishing space for redfish, flounder, or trout. However, if you’re saltwater casting in the Gulf of Mexico, you can find yourself quickly hooking a mackerel or cobia!
The best place for surf fishing overall is the Fish Pass Jetty. Get there early to grab a great spot!
Offshore Oil Rig Fishing in Port A
Getting offshore is also a great option when it comes to casting out. The Oil Rigs characteristic of the Gulf of Mexico make for great hiding spaces for snapper and other larger fish species. Book an offshore trip with any of these great outfits:
What Kind of Fish Will I Catch in Port A?
Port Aransas boasts an incredible diversity of fish species, catering to various angling preferences. Here are some of the most sought-after catches you can expect to encounter.
Redfish
The redfish is Texas’ official saltwater fish since they are so plentiful in the area. In fact, the local Redfish Bay is named for them. Redfish are known for their fighting spirit and are abundant in the waters around Port Aransas. These bruisers can be found in shallow bay waters and along the jetties throughout the year.
Speckled Trout
Port Aransas is renowned for its immensely large speckled trout population. You can find them in both shallow and deeper waters year-round. Your best bet at catching one of these beauties is by getting out on the water in the early morning or late evening since these are prime feeding times.
Flounder
These flatfish are a favorite among anglers in Port Aransas. Spring and fall are peak seasons for targeting flounder, particularly around the bay entrances and near sandy bottoms.
King Mackerel
The first touches of summer bring the opportunity to cross your fingers and attempt to battle the mighty king mackerel or the kingfish. These fast and powerful big game fish can be targeted near offshore structures and artificial reefs.
Tarpon
Tarpon is a popular gamefish across Texas coastal waters. Frequently majestic in their acrobatic displays, tarpon grace the waters of Port Aransas during the summer months.
Red Snapper
The Gulf of Mexico waters are teeming with red snappers. In state waters, you can expect to find these guys causing a ruckus during snapper season, which runs from April-October.
Other Fish Species
Although these are the most abundant fish you’ll find off the Texas coast, the truth is that there are so many species of fish in the area that you will inevitably be surprised. Anglers have been known to reel in fish like jack crevalle, mahi mahi, sailfish, blackfin tuna, marlin, wahoo, black drum and red drum, and even barracuda!
Catch ‘Em and Cook ‘Em
One of the must-do things while fishing in our island town is to catch your own fish…and then cook it! Many local eateries will allow you to bring your own fresh-caught fish in. They’ll cook it for you, and in no time, you’ll be enjoying some fish you caught with your own hands!
Try Castaway’s Seafood and Grill or Virginia’s on the Bay for two of our favorite places to Cook Your Catch!
Catch Rules & Fishing Regulations
There are a few local rules to consider before you head out on the fishing experience of a lifetime. First and foremost, fishing licenses are required for those ages 17 and older if fishing from a boat or on the beach. However, you do not need one if you are just fishing the pier.
You’ll also need to pay a $10 fee if you’re looking to Cook Your Catch or take it home with you.
Fishing Gear Rentals in Port Aransas, Texas
With fishing being such a huge sport in the area, there are many options for fishing gear rentals in the Port Aransas area.
Local bait shops and some piers, like the Horace Caldwell Pier, have gear rental options on site. Check out Island Tackle of Port Aransas for a wide variety of poles and other essentials for rent.
Fishing Charters
One of the best ways to have the best Port Aransas fishing trip is by joining a charter to take you out into the waters. These professionals know exactly where the fish are biting and can man the boat while you kick back and do what you do best.
Here are some of the top-tier fishing charters in Port A.
1. Red Tag Guide Service
Specializing in offshore fishing, Red Tag Guide Service will get you out on the water with a local professional fisherman who provides expert guidance and top-notch equipment to ensure a successful outing. He will help you target various species and can even tailor the trip to your preferences.
2. Fisherman’s Wharf
Offering both bay and deep-sea fishing charters and even specialized tuna charters, Fisherman’s Wharf has a fleet of well-equipped boats ready to take you on an unforgettable adventure. From half-day trips to overnight excursions, they cater to anglers of all skill levels.
3. Dolphin Dock Inc.
If you’re looking for an offshore fishing experience, Dolphin Dock Inc. is an excellent choice. Their skilled captains and crew will guide you to the most productive fishing grounds, targeting snapper, grouper, and amberjack species.
When is the Best Time to Fish in Port Aransas?
Fishing is a year-round sport in this neck of the woods. If you’re okay catching local superstars like the redfish or snapper, you can come anytime during the year. On the other hand, if you’re hoping to reel in some big game, come during the early fall when tuna, marlin, and mahi mahi ramp up.
Fishing Trip of a Lifetime in Port Aransas
No matter how you cast it, Port A is a haven for anglers. This area offers premium access to all kinds of fishing, whether in the deep sea, bay fishing, or pier fishing on a lazy afternoon.
Enjoy a getaway in our luxury Port Aransas vacation rentals, where you can have the surf, sand, and sun just minutes away. You’ll have rods in your hand in no time!
