Get ready to put your skills to the test on this full-day advanced fishing trip in Corpus Christi. We're talking 8 solid hours of chasing monster redfish, chunky trout, and bull black drum in some of the most productive waters Texas has to offer. Captain Ryan knows these waters like the back of his hand and he's itching to put you on the big ones. This ain't no beginner's trip - we're talking serious fishing for serious anglers who want to go toe-to-toe with some of the best inshore species around.
We'll be hitting the sweet spots in Upper Laguna Madre and Baffin Bay - two of the most legendary fishing grounds in the Lone Star State. These shallow, grassy flats are prime real estate for trophy-sized redfish, speckled trout, and black drum. Capt. Ryan's got all the top-notch gear you need, but feel free to bring your favorite rod if you've got a lucky charm. We'll be using advanced techniques tailored for experienced anglers - think sight-casting to tailing reds, working topwaters for explosive trout strikes, and finessing those big uglies (that's local speak for black drum) out of the grass. This ain't no relaxed drift fishing - be ready to move, cast, and work hard for those bucket list catches.
On this trip, we're pulling out all the stops. We might start the day wading the shallows, feeling for that telltale thump of a big red crushing a paddle tail. As the sun climbs, we'll switch gears and start working the deeper potholes for trout, maybe tossing some live bait if the bite's tough. For you fly fishermen, Capt. Ryan's got the skinny on what patterns are working - so don't forget to pack that 8-weight. When we're after those bruiser black drum, it's all about precision casting and having the patience of a saint. These fish can be stubborn, but when they commit, hold on tight! We'll be using everything from popping corks to soft plastics, adjusting our strategy as the conditions and fish dictate. It's a thinking man's game out here, and that's what makes it so dang fun.
Redfish: The crown jewel of Texas inshore fishing, these copper-colored brutes are what dreams are made of. In the fall, we target big bull reds that can top 40 inches and pull like a freight train. They love to cruise the shallows, often revealing themselves with their signature tail out of the water. When hooked, prepare for screaming drags and epic battles. The best part? They're delicious on the grill if you decide to keep a slot-sized fish.
Speckled Trout: Don't let the name fool you - these spotted speedsters are anything but delicate. Known locally as "specs," they're the bread and butter of Corpus Christi fishing. We're talking about fish that can push 30 inches in these parts, with many in the 20-25 inch range. They're ambush predators, so working a topwater lure and getting blown up on by a big trout is about as exciting as it gets. Spring and fall are prime times, but we catch 'em year-round here.
Black Drum: Often overlooked but never underestimated, black drum are the heavyweights of the bay. These bruisers can grow over 50 pounds, and when they're big, we call 'em "big uglies." They might not win any beauty contests, but hooking into one is like trying to stop a Mack truck. They love to hang out in deeper holes and around structure, and when they're feeding, it's not uncommon to limit out quickly. Spring is the best time to target the giants, but we catch quality drum all year.
Look, there's a reason why Corpus Christi is a mecca for serious inshore anglers. The combination of vast, shallow flats, abundant baitfish, and relatively light pressure means our fish grow big and mean. This full-day trip gives you the time and opportunity to really dial in your techniques and potentially land that fish of a lifetime. Capt. Ryan's been guiding these waters for years, and he's got the local knowledge to put you in the right spot at the right time. Plus, with a max of 5 anglers, you're getting personalized attention and plenty of elbow room to work those flats.
If you're an experienced angler looking for a real challenge and the chance at some world-class inshore fishing, this is your trip. We're talking about a full day on the water, chasing three of the most sought-after species in Texas. Bring your A-game, because these fish will test your skills and your gear. Whether you're after that bull red of a lifetime, a gator trout for the wall, or just want to tangle with some big, mean drum, Capt. Ryan's got you covered. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait. Book now and get ready for some of the best fishing Corpus Christi has to offer. Trust me, once you fish these waters, you'll be hooked for life.
These big bruisers are a blast to catch around Corpus. You'll find them cruising the shallows and oyster beds, usually in 1-4 feet of water. They love munching on crabs and shrimp, so that's what we use to target 'em. Most run 5-30 pounds, but the big boys can top 90! Spring's prime time when they school up to spawn. That drumming sound you hear? That's the males calling for mates. Black drum put up a great fight and the smaller ones (under 15 lbs) are good eating too. Pro tip: when you feel that telltale thump, give 'em a second to take the bait before setting the hook. These guys have tough mouths, so you gotta really lean into it.
Redfish are the bread and butter of Corpus Christi fishing. These copper-colored bruisers love cruising the shallows, often in water so skinny their backs are out. Look for them tailing in 1-4 feet around grass flats, oyster reefs, and marshes. Most reds we catch run 20-30 inches, but bulls over 40 inches aren't unheard of. They're suckers for live bait, but nothing beats sight-casting to a tailing red with a gold spoon. Fall's the best time when they school up. Redfish are prized for their strong runs and excellent table fare. Keep an eye out for that distinctive black spot near the tail - some fish have multiple spots. Tip: if you see muddy water on a calm day, there's probably a red rooting for crabs. Cast ahead of the mud trail for best results.
Speckled trout are one of our most popular gamefish here in Corpus. These silver beauties hang out in grass flats and shallow bays, usually in 2-6 feet of water. Most run 14-24 inches, but trophy trout over 5 pounds aren't uncommon. They're ambush predators, so look for them around structure like oyster reefs or drop-offs. Fall and spring are prime seasons when the water temps are just right. Trout are known for their light, flaky meat - perfect for a fish fry. They're not the hardest fighters, but their aggressive strikes make up for it. Try working a topwater lure at dawn for some exciting blow-ups. Local secret: on calm mornings, listen for that distinctive "pop" as they feed on the surface.
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