Premier Port Aransas Inshore Fishing Adventure

Published Date: October 24, 2025
Fishing

Port Aransas
$450 - $650 price range

Summary

Hop aboard for a laid-back afternoon of inshore fishing in Port Aransas with Captain Brad. This 5-hour trip kicks off at 2 PM, perfect for beating the Texas heat while still catching the day's best action. You'll target a mix of local favorites like redfish, black drum, and speckled trout using light tackle that's suited for all skill levels. With room for up to 3 people, it's a great way to spend quality time on the water with family or friends. Captain Brad knows these waters inside and out, so you'll get the local scoop on where the fish are biting. Whether you're a seasoned angler or trying fishing for the first time, you'll enjoy the coastal scenery and the thrill of the catch. Remember to pack some snacks and drinks to keep you fueled up for an afternoon of casting lines and reeling in memories.

Premier Port Aransas Inshore Fishing Adventure

Coastal Catches

Nice Redfish catch in Port Aransas

Angler catching a black drum fish in Aransas Pass

Sunset catch of Redfish in Port Aransas

Joyful Redfish catch in Port Aransas

Big Redfish catch in Port Aransas waters

Port Aransas Afternoon Inshore Fishing Adventure

Ready for some laid-back fishing action in the heart of the Texas coast? Captain Brad's got you covered with this 5-hour afternoon trip that'll have you reeling in the good times. Kicking off at 2 PM, it's the perfect way to dodge the midday heat and enjoy the calmer waters of Port Aransas. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip is all about having fun and hopefully landing some tasty dinner while you're at it.

What to Expect on the Water

As soon as you step aboard, you'll feel right at home. Captain Brad's been navigating these waters for years, and he knows all the sweet spots where the fish like to hang out. We'll be targeting a mix of inshore favorites - Redfish, Black Drum, Flounder, Sheepshead, and Speckled Trout. The boat's set up for light tackle fishing, which means you'll feel every nibble and fight. Don't worry if you're new to this - Brad's got patience for days and he'll show you the ropes. With room for up to 3 guests, it's perfect for a small group of friends or family looking to share some laughs and maybe a little friendly competition.

Fishing Techniques & Gear

We keep things simple but effective out here. You'll be using light tackle setups that Brad's fine-tuned for these waters. Expect to do some casting, some drifting, and maybe even some sight fishing if the conditions are right. We might toss out some live bait, work some soft plastics, or try our luck with topwater lures - it all depends on what the fish are in the mood for that day. Brad's always got a few tricks up his sleeve, and he's happy to share his local knowledge. All the gear you need is provided, so you just need to bring your enthusiasm and maybe a lucky hat.

Top Catches This Season

The beauty of fishing Port Aransas is that there's always something biting. In the warmer months, Redfish and Speckled Trout are often the stars of the show. As we move into fall and winter, you might find yourself battling a big Black Drum or trying to outsmart a wily Flounder. Sheepshead, with their human-like teeth, are always a crowd-pleaser when they show up. Every trip's different, and that's half the fun - you never know what might end up on the end of your line.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish are the rockstars of Texas inshore fishing. These copper-colored beauties are known for their strong runs and the distinctive black spot on their tail. They love to cruise the shallows, and when they're feeding, the action can be non-stop. Redfish put up a great fight and make for some mighty fine eating if you decide to keep a few for dinner.

Black Drum might not win any beauty contests, but what they lack in looks, they make up for in fight. These bruisers can grow to over 30 pounds in the bays, and when they decide to take your bait, hold on tight! They're most active in the cooler months, making them a perfect target for our afternoon trips.

Flounder are the ninjas of the inshore world. These flat fish are masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy bottom. They're ambush predators, so we'll often target them around structure or drop-offs. The thrill of flounder fishing is in the subtle bite - it's all about feeling that soft 'thump' and knowing when to set the hook.

Sheepshead are the oddballs of the bunch, with their distinctive black and white stripes and those crazy human-like teeth. They're notorious bait stealers, so hooking one is always a satisfying challenge. These fish hang around structures like jetties and piers, and they put up a surprisingly good fight for their size.

Speckled Trout, or "specks" as the locals call them, are a favorite among light tackle enthusiasts. These spotted predators are known for their soft mouths and acrobatic jumps when hooked. They're most active in the cooler months, but you can find them year-round if you know where to look. Captain Brad's got the inside scoop on where they're biting.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing Port Aransas that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the way the sun sets over the bay, painting the sky in oranges and pinks as we reel in the last catch of the day. Or perhaps it's the thrill of watching your rod bend double as a big red takes off with your bait. For many, it's the simple pleasure of being out on the water, away from the hustle and bustle, just enjoying good company and the rhythm of casting and reeling. Whatever brings you out, Captain Brad's afternoon trips are designed to give you a taste of what makes this place so special.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're looking for a relaxed way to experience some of the best inshore fishing Texas has to offer, this afternoon trip with Brad's Saltwater Adventures is hard to beat. It's perfect for families, groups of friends, or even solo anglers looking to learn from a local pro. Remember, these trips run on Mondays, Tuesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, so plan ahead to snag your preferred date. With all the gear provided and Brad's expertise at your disposal, all you need to bring is a good attitude and maybe a cooler for your catch. Don't let another fishing season slip by - book your spot now and get ready to make some memories on the water. Who knows, you might just end up with a new fishing story to tell and a fresh catch for dinner. See you out there!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black Drum are the heavyweight champions of the drum family, ranging from 5 to 30 pounds with some monsters hitting 90 pounds. You'll find them in brackish waters, around oyster beds, and in estuaries. They love hanging out near structure, using their strong chin barbels to root out crabs and shellfish. Spring is the best time to target them, as they school up for spawning. Anglers get a kick out of their powerful, thumping fight and the drumming sounds they make. For eating, stick to the smaller ones under 15 pounds - they're much better table fare. When fishing for Black Drum, use fresh crab or shrimp on a bottom rig. Here's a pro tip: if you're sight-fishing, look for their tall, distinctive dorsal fin breaking the surface in shallow water. They can be spooky, so approach quietly and make accurate casts.

Redfish

Redfish, or Red Drum, are the rockstars of inshore fishing. They range from 20-30 inches in the bays, with big bulls over 40 inches found in the surf. Look for them tailing in shallow flats, around oyster reefs, and near marsh edges. They're most active in fall when they school up to spawn. Anglers love Redfish for their powerful runs and their distinctive copper color with a black spot near the tail. They'll hit a variety of baits, from live shrimp to artificial lures. For a real thrill, try sight-casting to tailing Reds in shallow water. Here's a local secret: on hot summer days, look for Redfish "backing" in ultra-shallow water with their dorsal fins sticking out. Approach quietly and make a precise cast – the explosion when they hit a topwater lure is unforgettable. Just be ready for a fight when they take off for deeper water.

Sea Trout

Also known as Speckled Trout, these fish are a favorite among inshore anglers. They typically run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds, though some can reach up to 40 pounds. Look for them in grass flats, around oyster bars, and in deeper channels during winter. They're most active at dawn and dusk, often chasing bait in shallow water. Trout are known for their soft mouths, making for an exciting but delicate fight. Anglers love their aggressive strikes and tasty, flaky white meat. Live shrimp under a popping cork is a go-to bait, but artificial lures like soft plastics and topwater plugs can be deadly too. Here's a local tip: on calm mornings, listen for the distinctive "pop" of trout feeding on the surface. Cast your lure just beyond the sound and work it back – you might just hook into a gator trout.

Sheepshead

Known as the convict fish for their black and white stripes, Sheepshead are a unique catch. They typically range from 1-8 pounds but can reach up to 20 pounds. You'll find them around structure like docks, bridges, and oyster beds where they use their human-like teeth to crush barnacles and crabs. Spring is prime time as they gather to spawn near offshore reefs and jetties. Anglers love the challenge of catching these bait-stealers and appreciate their sweet, white meat. When targeting Sheepshead, use small hooks and natural baits like fiddler crabs or pieces of shrimp. Here's a local secret: when you feel a bite, wait a second before setting the hook. Sheepshead are notorious for nibbling bait off the hook, so giving them time to fully take it increases your chances of a solid hookup. Patience and a sharp eye are key to landing these striped tricksters.

Southern Flounder

These flatfish are masters of camouflage, blending in with sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow coastal waters. Typically 15-18 inches long, Southern Flounder can grow up to 33 inches and weigh over 20 pounds. They're ambush predators, lying in wait for smaller fish and crustaceans. Look for them around oyster beds, grass flats, and near structure in bays and estuaries. Fall is prime time as they migrate to spawn offshore. Anglers love targeting flounder for their delicate, white meat and the challenge of detecting their subtle bites. Use a slow retrieve with live bait or soft plastics, keeping your offering close to the bottom. Here's a local trick: when you feel a bite, don't set the hook right away. Give the flounder time to turn the bait in its mouth, then reel down and lift to set. Patience is key with these clever fish.

About the Brad’s Saltwater Adventures

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 3

Manufacturer Name: Suzuki

Maximum Cruising Speed: 30

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 115

Get ready for an afternoon of laid-back fishing in Port Aransas! This 5-hour trip kicks off at 2 PM, letting you enjoy the cooler part of the day on the water. Available select days of the week, it's a great way to unwind and try your luck at catching some local favorites like Redfish, Black Drum, Flounder, Sheepshead, and Speckled Trout. Captain Brad knows these waters well and will set you up with light tackle that's easy for anglers of all skill levels to use. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to fishing, you'll have a good shot at reeling something in. With room for up to 3 people, it's perfect for a small group or family outing. As you cast your lines, take in the beautiful coastal scenery and soak up the relaxed Texas Gulf vibe. It's a fun way to spend an afternoon and maybe even catch dinner while you're at it!

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