Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready to hit the water for some serious fish-catching fun? Capt. Traci Rhodes here, and I'm itching to get you out on my 25-foot Majek for a day you won't forget. We're talking 6 full hours of non-stop fishing action in the rich waters of Corpus Christi. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time holding a rod, I've got the spots and the know-how to put you on the fish. Let's make some memories and maybe even break a few personal records while we're at it!
Listen up, because here's what you're in for: We'll cruise out on my well-equipped Majek, which is perfect for navigating the shallow bays and getting into those sweet spots where the big ones like to hide. You and a buddy will have plenty of room to cast and reel without getting in each other's way. I'm all about putting you on the fish, so we'll target the local favorites - redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. And hey, if the bite is hot, we might even stay out for the full 8 hours. No need to pack a lunch though, as we'll be too busy hauling in fish to worry about food. Just bring your game face and maybe a snack to keep your energy up.
Alright, let's talk tactics. Depending on what's biting and where, we might do some drift fishing over grass flats, work the edges of oyster reefs, or even do some sight casting in the shallows. I'll show you how to work soft plastics, throw topwater lures, or use live bait if that's what's getting the job done. We'll hit up some of my favorite honey holes - maybe the flats around Mustang Island, the channels near Port Aransas, or the backwaters of Redfish Bay. And don't worry if you're new to this - I'll walk you through everything from setting the hook to landing that trophy catch. By the end of the day, you'll be casting like a pro and telling fish stories of your own.
Let's chat about what we're after. First up, redfish - these copper-colored bruisers are a blast to catch. They'll test your drag and your biceps, especially when they're tailing in shallow water. Look for them around oyster beds and grass flats, and be ready for a fight when they hit. Best time? Fall, when the bull reds come in to spawn.
Next, we've got speckled trout. These guys are the bread and butter of Corpus Christi fishing. They're sneaky and quick, so a light touch on the line is key. We'll find them hanging around drop-offs and channels, especially early in the morning or late evening when they're feeding. Spring and fall are prime time for specks.
Don't forget about flounder - the ninjas of the fish world. These flat boys like to ambush their prey, so we'll work the bottom with slow retrieves. They're masters of camouflage, but once you hook one, it's like reeling in a dinner plate. Late fall is flounder run time, when they head to the Gulf to spawn.
Black drum are the heavyweight champions of our waters. These big uglies can grow over 30 pounds and put up one heck of a fight. We'll target them around pier pilings and bridge supports. They love crustaceans, so crab or shrimp bait is the ticket. Winter and early spring are prime time for big black drum.
Last but not least, sheepshead. These striped convicts are tricky to hook but delicious to eat. They hang around structure like jetties and reefs, munching on barnacles and crabs. You need a light touch to feel their subtle bite, but once you get the hang of it, it's addictive. Winter is the best time to target sheepshead when the water's cooler.
Look, I could talk all day about why fishing in Corpus Christi is the best, but here's the deal: It's not just about the fish. It's about that moment when the sun's coming up over the bay, and you can smell the salt in the air. It's about the rush you get when your line goes tight and you know you're in for a battle. It's about high-fiving your buddy when you land that personal best. And let's be honest, it's about the bragging rights you'll have back at the dock. Every trip is different, and that's what keeps folks coming back for more. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler or just enjoy a day on the water, I've got you covered.
Alright, folks, here's the bottom line: If you're itching to bend a rod and feel the pull of a big one, it's time to book your spot. My calendar fills up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait around. Whether you're a local looking for a quick fishing fix or you're visiting and want to experience the best of Corpus Christi's waters, I'm your gal. Grab a friend, pack your sunscreen, and let's make some fishing magic happen. The fish are waiting, and trust me, you don't want to miss out on this action. Give me a call, shoot me a text, or hit that book now button. Let's get you on the water and into some fish!
Redfish are a prized catch around here, typically ranging from 20-30 inches. You'll find them cruising the shallows - I'm talking 1-4 feet of water. They love hanging around oyster reefs, grass flats, and jetties. Fall is prime time as they school up to spawn. Anglers go nuts for redfish because they put up an awesome fight and taste great too. That signature black spot near the tail is actually a fake "eye" to confuse predators. Pretty clever, right? If you want to land a big one, try sight-casting with a gold spoon lure in clear, shallow water. Just be patient and make an accurate cast - these fish can be spooky.
Black drum are the big cousins of redfish, and they can get huge - we're talking 50+ pounds for the giants. Most are in the 5-30 pound range though. You'll find them around oyster beds, pier pilings, and in channels. Spring is spawning time when they really congregate. Folks like targeting black drum for the challenge - they're strong fighters that'll test your gear. That deep drumming sound they make is pretty cool too. For eating, stick to the smaller ones under 15 pounds. Big ones get tough and wormy. To catch 'em, use fresh peeled shrimp or crab on a fish-finder rig. Let it sit on the bottom and be patient - when that rod doubles over, you'll know you're in for a battle.
Summer flounder, or fluke, are flatfish that like to hang out on the bottom in bays and estuaries. Most are 15-20 inches, but you might land one pushing 10 pounds if you're lucky. Look for them over sandy or muddy bottoms, especially near drop-offs or channels. Fall is prime time as they fatten up before winter. Anglers dig flounder fishing because it takes some skill, and they're excellent table fare. These fish have both eyes on one side, which is pretty wild to see up close. When you're after flounder, try drifting with a bucktail jig tipped with a strip of squid. Drag it slowly along the bottom with little hops - that's when they'll often strike.
Sheepshead are unique-looking fish with those crazy human-like teeth. Most are 1-8 pounds, but they can get up to 20 pounds if you find a big one. You'll spot them around any kind of structure - docks, bridges, jetties. Spring is spawning time, so that's when they really stack up. People get a kick out of targeting sheepshead because they're tricky to hook and put up a good fight for their size. Plus, that white meat is delicious. Here's the deal with sheepshead - they're notorious bait stealers. Use a small, strong hook and set it fast when you feel that telltale nibble. Fresh shrimp or fiddler crabs are your best bet for bait.
Sea trout, or speckled trout as we call 'em, are a local favorite. Most run 14-20 inches, but you might hook into a real gator over 5 pounds if you're lucky. Look for them around grass flats and deeper channels, especially at dawn and dusk. They're active year-round, but spring and fall are peak seasons when the water temps are just right. Folks love catching specks because they're aggressive strikers and make for some fine eating. Here's a pro tip: try a popping cork rig with a live shrimp about 18 inches below. That popping sound drives 'em crazy. Work it slow with twitches and pauses, and hang on tight when they hit!
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