Ready to hit the inshore waters of Corpus Christi? Captain Cordon's got your back for a full day of laid-back fishing and soaking in those Texas coastal views. We're talking 8 solid hours on the water, targeting some of the Gulf's most sought-after inshore species. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, this trip's all about having a good time and hopefully landing some fish while you're at it.
Picture this: You're cruising the scenic bays around Corpus, rod in hand, keeping an eye out for those telltale signs of redfish tailing in the shallows. Captain Cordon's been doing this for years, so he knows all the sweet spots where the fish like to hang out. We'll be using light tackle, which means you'll really feel the fight when a big speckled trout decides to take your bait. And don't worry if you're new to this - the Captain's got a knack for making everyone feel comfortable, whether you're a pro or just figuring out how to cast.
We'll be working the flats and backwaters, areas where the water's shallow and the fish are plenty. Sight-casting to redfish is a real thrill - you'll see them cruising and have to place your lure just right. For trout and flounder, we might drift over grass beds or work the edges of channels. The Captain's got all the gear you'll need, from rods and reels to the right lures for whatever's biting. And hey, if you've got a favorite rod you want to bring along, that's cool too.
Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are a favorite among Corpus anglers. They love to hang out in shallow water, often with their tails sticking up as they root for crabs in the mud. Redfish put up a great fight, especially on light tackle. Fall is prime time for big bulls, but you can catch them year-round here.
Speckled Trout: Also known as spotted seatrout, these guys are the bread and butter of inshore fishing in Texas. They've got a soft mouth, so finesse is key when you're reeling them in. Spring and fall are peak seasons, but a good Captain can put you on trout any time of year.
Flounder: Flatfish with both eyes on one side, flounder are ambush predators that lie in wait on the bottom. They're not the strongest fighters, but they're delicious eating if you're looking to take some fish home. Fall is the best time to target flounder as they migrate to the Gulf to spawn.
Black Drum: Cousins to the redfish, black drum can grow to massive sizes. The smaller ones, called "puppy drum," are great eating and fun to catch. They love crustaceans, so we might use some crab or shrimp to entice them. You can catch these guys year-round, but spring is particularly good.
It's not just about the fish - though that's a big part of it. Corpus Christi's got some of the prettiest coastline you'll see. While we're out there, keep an eye out for dolphins, pelicans diving for their lunch, and maybe even a sea turtle if we're lucky. The pace is relaxed, so there's plenty of time to chat, learn some new techniques, and just enjoy being out on the water. And with room for up to 4 people, it's perfect for a family outing or a day with your buddies.
So what do you say? Ready to spend a day on the water with a chance at hooking into some of Texas' finest inshore fish? Captain Cordon's got the know-how, the spots, and all the gear you need. Just bring yourself, some snacks, and maybe a camera to capture that trophy redfish. Remember, the deposit's non-refundable, so when you book, you're locked in for a great day of fishing. Don't wait too long - the fish are biting, and the spots on the boat fill up fast. Let's get you out on the water and make some memories!
Redfish are a favorite around here, with their copper-red backs and that telltale black spot near the tail. Most we catch are 20-30 inches, but they can grow over 40 inches in the Gulf. You'll find them in shallow water - sometimes so shallow their backs are out of the water! They love hanging around oyster reefs, grassy flats, and muddy bottoms. Fall is prime time when they school up to spawn. Anglers get excited about redfish for their hard fighting and great eating. They'll hit just about any bait, but I like throwing topwater lures early morning for explosive strikes. If you're sight-fishing the flats, try a gold spoon - redfish can't resist that flash. Just remember to work it slow and steady.
Black drum are the bulldogs of the flats. They're part of the croaker family, known for the drumming sound they make. Most we catch are 5-30 pounds, but they can get huge - up to 90 pounds! You'll find them in shallow bays, around oyster reefs, and near pier pilings. They're bottom feeders, so look for muddy water where they're rooting around. Spring is prime time when they school up to spawn. Anglers love drum for their strong fight and good eating, especially the smaller ones under 15 pounds. They've got a sweet tooth for crabs and shrimp. My local trick: use a chunk of blue crab on a circle hook. Let them take it and start to run before you set the hook.
Speckled trout, or specks, are a staple in our waters. These silvery fish with black spots usually run 14-20 inches, though trophy-sized gator trout over 25 inches aren't unheard of. You'll find them in grass flats, around oyster reefs, and near drop-offs. They're most active at dawn and dusk, especially on moving tides. Spring and fall are prime seasons when water temps are just right. Anglers prize specks for their aggressive strikes and delicate flavor. They're not the biggest fighters, but they make up for it in numbers. Live shrimp under a popping cork is deadly, but artificial lures work great too. My local tip: on calm mornings, look for subtle v-wakes on the surface - that's often a trout chasing bait.
Summer flounder, or fluke, are masters of camouflage with both eyes on their left side. They usually run 15-20 inches, but can get up to 26 pounds. You'll find them on sandy or muddy bottoms in bays and estuaries. They're ambush predators, lying flat and blending in perfectly before striking. Fall is the best time to target them as they move offshore to spawn. Anglers love flounder for their tasty white meat and the challenge of hooking them. They have a habit of mouthing the bait before committing, so you've got to be patient. My go-to rig is a bucktail jig with a strip of squid or fish - bounce it slowly along the bottom. When you feel that thump, give it a second before setting the hook.
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