Get ready for some serious winter fishing action in Port Aransas with Jawjackers Charters. We're talking about a full day of chasing after some of the best inshore species Texas has to offer. Our crew knows these waters like the back of their hand, and we're itching to get you on the fish. Whether you're looking to battle a big red or outsmart a wily trout, we've got the spots and the know-how to make it happen. So grab your favorite lucky hat and let's hit the bays!
Our full day bay trip out of Aransas Pass is all about putting you where the fish are biting. We're not just talking about any old fishing spot - we're talking about the honey holes where the redfish are tailing, the sheepshead are chomping, and the sea trout are on the prowl. Our boat is rigged up with top-notch gear, and we provide all the bait you'll need. All you've got to do is show up ready to fish. We'll cruise the flats, hit some deeper holes, and maybe even sneak up on some shoreline structure where the big boys like to hide. It's a full day of non-stop action, so pack some snacks and drinks to keep your energy up.
When it comes to winter fishing in Port A, we've got a few tricks up our sleeves. We might start off sight-casting to tailing reds in the shallows - there's nothing quite like watching a big red crush your bait in gin-clear water. If the wind kicks up, we'll switch gears and maybe drift some deeper guts with live bait or soft plastics. For those sheepshead, we'll get up close and personal with some structure, using light tackle and a steady hand to feel those subtle bites. And let's not forget about those gator trout - we'll break out the topwater lures at dawn and dusk to entice those explosive strikes. It's all about adapting to what the fish want, and we're masters at reading the signs.
"Had a great time and caught some GREAT fish... thanks again" - Ritchie Lee
Folks like Ritchie keep coming back because they know we deliver the goods. It's not just about catching fish - it's about the whole experience. From the moment you step on our boat, you're in for a day of laughs, learning, and some serious fish-catching action. We're not just guides, we're your fishing buddies for the day, and we're just as stoked as you are when that drag starts screaming.
Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are the crown jewels of Texas inshore fishing. Reds can range from puppy drum size up to bull reds over 40 inches. In the winter, they school up in the shallows, often tailing as they root for crabs in the mud. There's nothing quite like the thump of a redfish inhaling your bait, followed by a blistering run that'll test your drag. They're known for their strength and stamina, often putting up multiple runs before coming to the net.
Black Drum: Often overlooked but never underappreciated, black drum are the bulldogs of the bay. These fish can grow to massive sizes, with some old-timers pushing 50 pounds or more. In the cooler months, they congregate in deeper channels and around bridge pilings. They're not the prettiest fish in the sea, but what they lack in looks, they make up for in fight. Plus, the smaller ones make for some mighty fine eating.
Sheepshead: If you're looking for a challenge, sheepshead are your fish. These striped convicts are notorious bait stealers with teeth that can crush barnacles and crabs. Winter is prime time for sheepshead as they move inshore to spawn. They hang tight to structure, so precision casting is key. Once hooked, they use their deep bodies to pull hard, making for a surprisingly tough fight on light tackle.
Sea Trout: Speckled trout, or specs as we call 'em, are the finesse game of inshore fishing. These spotted predators have paper-thin mouths and a knack for throwing hooks, making them a true test of an angler's skill. In winter, big gator trout move into shallower water, giving you a shot at a true trophy. There's nothing quite like the nerve-wracking walk the dog retrieve of a topwater lure, waiting for that heart-stopping explosion on the surface.
Spanish Mackerel: While not as common in the bay during winter, you might still run into schools of Spanish mackerel on warmer days. These speedsters are like silver bullets, known for their blistering runs and acrobatic jumps. They're a blast on light tackle and make for some of the best fish tacos you'll ever have. When we find a school, it's often fast and furious action that'll leave your arms sore and your face sore from grinning.
Look, winter fishing in Port Aransas isn't just another day on the water - it's a chance to tangle with some of the best inshore species Texas has to offer. With Jawjackers Charters, you're not just getting a fishing trip, you're getting a full-on Port A experience. We've got the local knowledge, the right gear, and the passion to make sure you have a day you won't forget. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, we've got you covered. So what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, and your spot on the boat is waiting. Give us a call, and let's get you hooked up with some winter Texas giants. Just remember, once you fish with us, you might find yourself planning your next trip before you even get back to the dock. See you on the water!
July 15, 2020
Black Drum are the big cousins of Redfish, often hanging out in the same spots. You'll find them in shallow bays, around oyster reefs, and near pier pilings. They range from 5 to 30 pounds, but the biggest ones can top 90 pounds. Spring is prime time as they school up to spawn. Black Drum make a distinctive croaking sound, which is pretty cool to hear underwater. They're not the prettiest fish, but they put up a good fight and the smaller ones taste great. Use fresh crab or shrimp for bait and fish it right on the bottom. Here's a tip - if you're after the big ones, try fishing at night when they're most active. Just remember, those over 15 pounds can be tough and not as tasty.
Redfish are one of our most popular targets, with their copper color and distinctive tail spot. You'll find them in super shallow water, sometimes with their backs out of the water! They love hanging around oyster reefs, grass flats, and mangroves. Most are 20-30 inches, but they can get much bigger offshore. Redfish put up a great fight and are excellent eating. They'll hit just about any bait or lure, but topwater strikes are a blast. Spring and fall are prime seasons when they're most active in the shallows. Here's a local tip: look for "tailing" redfish in really shallow water - their tails stick up as they root for crabs in the mud. Sight-casting to those fish is as exciting as it gets!
Sea Trout, or Speckled Trout, are a favorite inshore target here. They're usually 14-24 inches long, with larger ones called "gator trout." Look for them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They form big schools in deeper water during winter. Sea Trout hit a variety of lures - topwater plugs early morning are a blast. They're known for their soft, white meat, but be careful not to overcook it. One tip: when you find a school, work the area thoroughly. They often hang out in groups. And if you're not having luck, try drifting with live shrimp under a popping cork. The fight isn't as tough as some other species, but the action can be fast and they're great eating.
Sheepshead are the convict-striped fish with human-like teeth. You'll find them around any structure with barnacles - docks, jetties, reefs. They typically run 1-8 pounds but can reach 20. Spring is prime time as they gather to spawn. Sheepshead are notorious bait stealers, so you've got to be quick on the hook set. They put up a good scrap and taste excellent, though cleaning them can be tricky with their tough scales. Use light tackle and drop your bait right next to pilings. Fiddler crabs are the go-to bait, but shrimp works too. Here's a local trick - scrape some barnacles off the structure to chum them up. Just watch out for those chompers when you're unhooking them!
Spanish Mackerel are speedy swimmers you'll find in schools around here, typically 1-2 feet long and a few pounds. Look for them near the surface in open waters, especially around structures. They're most active in warmer months when they migrate through. Anglers love targeting Spanish Mackerel for their hard fights and tasty meat. These fish hit fast-moving lures hard, so try trolling with small, shiny spoons or jigs. A local trick is to watch for birds diving - that often means mackerel are feeding on baitfish below. When you find a school, get ready for some fast action! Just be careful handling them - they've got some sharp teeth. Grilled or smoked Spanish Mackerel makes for great eating too.
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Had a great time and caught some GREAT fish... thanks again