First Cast Species

Species

Browse 80 Texas freshwater and coastal fish profiles. Reminder-only regulation cards are used when exact TPWD limits are not confidently sourced.

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Red Drum

Sciaenops ocellatus

A copper-backed inshore bruiser that feeds aggressively across flats, passes, jetties, and marsh drains when tide movement concentrates bait.

Where: Grass flats, Marsh drains

Gear: Medium spinning rod, Paddle tail soft plastic

SaltwaterGrass flatsMarsh drainsOyster reefs

Gear: 7' medium spinning rod, 3000 reel, 15 lb braid, 20-25 lb fluorocarbon leader.

Baits/Lures: Live shrimp, Mullet, Paddle tail soft plastic, Gold spoon

Location guidance

Grass flats, Marsh drains, Oyster reefs, Jetties near Galveston Bay, Port Aransas jetties, Lower Laguna Madre.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Best when tide or wind moves bait across grass, drains, shell, or sandy potholes.

Season / conditions

Spring and fall shorelines can be strong; summer fish often slide to early flats, passes, and deeper edges.

Bag limit: 3 fish per day

Length: 20 - 28 in

One red drum over 28 inches may be retained per license year with a properly completed Red Drum Tag; one additional oversized fish requires a Bonus Red Drum Tag.

Source: TPWD

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Spotted Seatrout

Cynoscion nebulosus

An ambush predator that keys on glass minnows and shrimp along current seams, grass lines, and sandy potholes.

Where: Grass lines, Sandy potholes

Gear: Medium-light spinning rod, Suspending twitchbait

SaltwaterGrass linesSandy potholesCurrent seams

Gear: 7' medium-light spinning rod, 2500-3000 reel, 10-15 lb braid, 15-20 lb fluorocarbon leader.

Baits/Lures: Live shrimp, Croaker, Suspending twitchbait, Paddle tail jig

Location guidance

Grass lines, Sandy potholes, Current seams, Shell pads near Galveston Bay, Baffin Bay, Port Mansfield.

WadePierBoatKayak

Look for current seams, bait flickers, slicks, and clean water over grass or shell.

Season / conditions

Low-light topwater windows are best in warm months; cold fronts push fish toward deeper drains and channels.

Bag limit: 3 fish per day

Length: 15 - 20 in

One spotted seatrout over 28 inches may be retained per license year with a properly completed Spotted Seatrout Tag; one additional oversized fish requires a Bonus Spotted Seatrout Tag.

Source: TPWD

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Southern Flounder

Paralichthys lethostigma

A bottom-oriented predator best targeted near drains, channel bends, and sandy transitions with slow presentations.

Where: Marsh drains, Channel edges

Gear: Medium spinning rod, Paddle tail jig

SaltwaterMarsh drainsChannel edgesSandy points

Gear: 7' medium spinning rod, 2500-3000 reel, 10-15 lb braid, 20 lb fluorocarbon leader.

Baits/Lures: Mud minnow, Gulp shrimp, Paddle tail jig

Location guidance

Marsh drains, Channel edges, Sandy points, Passes near Sabine Lake, Galveston channels, Port Aransas passes.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Slow presentations near bottom around drains, sandy points, dock lights, and channel lips.

Season / conditions

Fall migration concentrates fish near passes and channel edges; check current seasonal closures before harvest.

Bag limit: 5 fish per day

Length: 15 in minimum

Fishery closed Nov 1-Dec 14; the daily bag limit is 0 during the closure. Possession limit equals the daily bag limit.

Source: TPWD

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Black Drum

Pogonias cromis

A scent-driven feeder that roots shell, mud, and structure for crab, shrimp, and small shellfish.

Where: Oyster reefs, Bridge pilings

Gear: Medium-heavy spinning rod, Carolina rig

SaltwaterOyster reefsBridge pilingsJetties

Gear: 7' medium-heavy spinning rod, 4000 reel, 20-30 lb braid, 30 lb leader.

Baits/Lures: Blue crab, Dead shrimp, Carolina rig

Location guidance

Oyster reefs, Bridge pilings, Jetties, Deep channels near Galveston jetties, Corpus Christi Bay, Port Aransas channels.

ShorePierBoat

Use scent and bottom contact around shell, mud, current, and pilings.

Season / conditions

Cool-season drum often stack near channels, bridges, and jetties.

Bag limit: 5 fish per day

Length: 14 - 30 in

One black drum over 52 inches may be retained per day as part of the five-fish daily bag limit.

Source: TPWD

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Mangrove Snapper

Lutjanus griseus

A structure-oriented snapper that gets active around rocks, docks, and jetty pockets with clean moving water.

Where: Jetties, Rock piles

Gear: Medium spinning rod, Freeline shrimp

SaltwaterJettiesRock pilesDocks

Gear: 7' medium spinning rod, 2500-3000 reel, 10-15 lb braid, 20 lb fluorocarbon leader.

Baits/Lures: Live shrimp, Small pilchard, Freeline shrimp, Small jighead

Location guidance

Jetties, Rock piles, Docks, Bridge pilings near South Padre jetties, Port Mansfield rocks, Lower Laguna Madre docks.

JettyPierBoatKayak

Use small natural baits tight to rocks, pilings, docks, and current pockets.

Season / conditions

Warmer months are usually better around clear structure and moving water.

Bag limit: Check local aggregate

Length: No slot

Source: TPWD

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Largemouth Bass

Micropterus salmoides

A cover-oriented freshwater predator that keys on grass, timber, docks, creek channels, and shad or sunfish forage.

Where: Grass edges, Creek channels

Gear: Medium casting rod, Texas rig

FreshwaterGrass edgesCreek channelsDocks

Gear: 7' medium-heavy casting rod, low-profile reel, 12-17 lb fluorocarbon or 30 lb braid around grass.

Baits/Lures: Craw bait, Shad swimbait, Texas rig

Location guidance

Grass edges, Creek channels, Docks, Brush piles near Lake Fork, Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Toledo Bend.

ShoreBoatKayak

Match grass, brush, docks, timber, and wind-blown banks before changing lure style.

Season / conditions

Prespawn fish stage on points and drains; summer fish split between shade, grass, and offshore structure.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

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Smallmouth Bass

Micropterus dolomieu

A bronze bass that favors clear rocky structure, current breaks, points, and crawfish-oriented presentations.

Where: Rock piles, Clear points

Gear: Medium casting rod, Ned rig

FreshwaterRock pilesClear pointsCurrent breaks

Gear: 6'10 to 7' medium spinning rod, 2500 reel, 8-10 lb braid to 8-12 lb fluorocarbon.

Baits/Lures: Craw tube, Minnow bait, Ned rig

Location guidance

Rock piles, Clear points, Current breaks, Bluff banks near Lake Texoma, Devils River, Clear Hill Country rivers.

ShoreBoatKayak

Focus on clear rock, gravel, bluff shade, current breaks, and crawfish forage.

Season / conditions

Spring and fall current breaks can shine; summer fish often need shade or deeper rock.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

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Guadalupe Bass

Micropterus treculii

Texas' state fish, best approached around Hill Country current, limestone ledges, shade pockets, and compact forage.

Where: Limestone ledges, Current breaks

Gear: Medium casting rod, Small swimbait

FreshwaterLimestone ledgesCurrent breaksShade pockets

Gear: 6'6 to 7' light or medium spinning rod, 1000-2500 reel, 6-10 lb line.

Baits/Lures: Craw imitation, Minnow plug, Small swimbait

Location guidance

Limestone ledges, Current breaks, Shade pockets, Riffle edges near Guadalupe River, Llano River, San Marcos River.

WadeShoreKayak

Cast small baits around limestone ledges, shade pockets, riffle edges, and deeper pools.

Season / conditions

Spring through early fall can be productive when flows are safe and clear.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

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White Bass

Morone chrysops

A schooling open-water fish that feeds aggressively on shad across points, humps, channels, and seasonal river runs.

Where: Main-lake points, River runs

Gear: Medium casting rod, Slab spoon

FreshwaterMain-lake pointsRiver runsChannel edges

Gear: 7' medium spinning rod, 2500 reel, 10-15 lb braid or mono.

Baits/Lures: Shad imitation, Inline spinner, Slab spoon

Location guidance

Main-lake points, River runs, Channel edges, Humps near Colorado River runs, Lake Livingston, Cedar Creek Reservoir.

ShoreBoatKayak

Watch birds, bait, current seams, humps, and wind-blown points.

Season / conditions

Spring river runs are a prime pattern; summer fish often school over humps and points.

Bag limit: Check current Texas limits

Length: No slot in most waters

Source: TPWD

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Striped Bass

Morone saxatilis

A powerful open-water predator that follows baitfish, wind, current, and temperature bands across reservoirs.

Where: Open-water bait schools, Dam faces

Gear: Medium-heavy casting rod, Casting spoon

FreshwaterOpen-water bait schoolsDam facesMain-lake humps

Gear: 7' medium-heavy rod, 3000-4000 reel or casting setup, 20-30 lb braid with leader.

Baits/Lures: Live shad, Large spoon, Casting spoon, Fluorocarbon leader

Location guidance

Open-water bait schools, Dam faces, Main-lake humps, River channels near Lake Texoma, Possum Kingdom Lake, Lake Whitney.

BoatGuide boatBank near dam areas

Use electronics or bird activity to locate bait before dropping slabs or casting spoons.

Season / conditions

Summer and winter patterns often revolve around shad schools and depth changes.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

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Hybrid Striped Bass

Morone chrysops x Morone saxatilis

A hard-pulling stocked hybrid that groups around bait, current, wind-blown structure, and deep summer schools.

Where: Main-lake structure, Wind-blown points

Gear: Medium-heavy spinning combo, Slab spoon

FreshwaterMain-lake structureWind-blown pointsTailraces

Gear: 7' medium-heavy spinning rod, 3000-4000 reel, 15-30 lb braid.

Baits/Lures: Shad, Sassy shad, Slab spoon, Swivel and leader kit

Location guidance

Main-lake structure, Wind-blown points, Tailraces, Bait schools near Lake Lewisville, Lake Ray Hubbard, Tawakoni.

BoatShore near tailracesKayak in protected water

Target shad, current, tailraces, wind-blown points, and main-lake structure.

Season / conditions

Schooling windows can be fast; spring and summer wind-blown structure can be productive.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

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Bluegill

Lepomis macrochirus

Small baits produce steady action near grass and brush.

Where: Shallow grass, Dock shade

Gear: Light spinning combo, Small aberdeen hooks

FreshwaterShallow grassDock shadeBrush edges

Gear: Light spinning rod or cane pole, 4-6 lb line, small hook, split shot, and float.

Baits/Lures: worms, small jig, Small aberdeen hooks, Slip float rig

Location guidance

Shallow grass, Dock shade, Brush edges, Pond banks near Community fishing lakes, farm ponds, Lake Fork coves.

ShorePierKayak

Fish small baits slowly around grass, brush edges, dock shade, and protected pond banks.

Season / conditions

Late spring and summer beds can be excellent; shade and cover matter when the sun gets high.

Bag limit: Check current Texas limits

Length: No slot in most waters

Source: TPWD

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Crappie

Pomoxis species

A schooling panfish that stacks around brush, standing timber, bridge columns, docks, and creek-channel edges.

Where: Brush piles, Standing timber

Gear: Light spinning combo, Crappie jig

FreshwaterBrush pilesStanding timberBridge columns

Gear: Light or medium-light spinning rod, 4-8 lb line, small jig or live minnow rig.

Baits/Lures: Live minnow, Tube jig, Crappie jig, Slip float rig

Location guidance

Brush piles, Standing timber, Bridge columns, Creek channels near Lake Fork, Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Cedar Creek Reservoir.

BoatShore near bridgesKayak

Use depth changes, brush, bridge shade, and bait activity to pick a starting depth.

Season / conditions

Spring fish move shallow around cover; summer and winter fish often stack near timber, brush, and channels.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

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Catfish

Ictaluridae

A scent-driven freshwater target that uses channels, riprap, timber, deep bends, and wind-blown food lines.

Where: Creek channels, Riprap

Gear: Medium-heavy catfish rod, Slip sinker rig

FreshwaterCreek channelsRiprapTimber edges

Gear: Medium-heavy rod, 15-30 lb line, slip sinker or Santee-style rig, and fresh bait.

Baits/Lures: Fresh cut shad, Prepared bait, Slip sinker rig

Location guidance

Creek channels, Riprap, Timber edges, Wind-blown flats near Lake Tawakoni, Trinity River, Cedar Creek Reservoir.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Use scent around channels, riprap, timber edges, current, and wind-blown food lines.

Season / conditions

Warm months are strong for eating-size fish; cold periods can concentrate larger fish near shad and deep edges.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

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Channel Catfish

Ictalurus punctatus

A scent-driven catfish that uses creek channels, riprap, timber, and wind-blown flats to locate forage.

Where: Creek channels, Riprap

Gear: Medium casting rod, Slip sinker rig

FreshwaterCreek channelsRiprapTimber edges

Gear: 7' medium-heavy rod, 4000 reel or round baitcaster, 15-25 lb mono.

Baits/Lures: Prepared bait, Cut shad, Slip sinker rig

Location guidance

Creek channels, Riprap, Timber edges, Wind-blown flats near Lake Tawakoni, Cedar Creek Reservoir, Guadalupe River.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Use scent around creek channels, timber, riprap, and wind-blown flats.

Season / conditions

Warm months are strong around baited holes, riprap, and wind-blown food lines.

Bag limit: Check current Texas limits

Length: No slot in most waters

Source: TPWD

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Blue Catfish

Ictalurus furcatus

A big-river and reservoir catfish that tracks shad, current, ledges, and deep wintering holes.

Where: River ledges, Deep holes

Gear: Medium casting rod, Santee rig

FreshwaterRiver ledgesDeep holesWind-blown flats

Gear: 7'6 medium-heavy rod, baitcaster or 5000 spinning reel, 30-50 lb main line.

Baits/Lures: Fresh cut shad, Skipjack, Santee rig

Location guidance

River ledges, Deep holes, Wind-blown flats, Channel drops near Lake Tawakoni, Texoma, Trinity River.

ShoreBoatKayak where safe

Fresh cut bait works around ledges, flats, channel drops, and wind-driven bait.

Season / conditions

Cold-season trophy patterns often track fresh shad and deep-water edges.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

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Flathead Catfish

Pylodictis olivaris

A structure-loving ambush catfish that favors live bait around logjams, cut banks, boulders, and deep cover.

Where: Logjams, Cut banks

Gear: Medium casting rod, Heavy slip sinker rig

FreshwaterLogjamsCut banksDeep holes

Gear: 7'6 heavy rod, strong baitcaster, 40-65 lb line, heavy leader around wood.

Baits/Lures: Live sunfish, Live shad, Heavy slip sinker rig

Location guidance

Logjams, Cut banks, Deep holes, Boulder fields near Brazos River, Trinity River, Colorado River bends.

ShoreBoatKayak where safe

Use live bait near logjams, cut banks, deep holes, and outside bends.

Season / conditions

Night fishing near warm-season cover is a common flathead pattern.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

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Alligator Gar

Atractosteus spatula

A primitive apex fish of big rivers, reservoirs, and backwaters that requires specialized tackle and careful handling.

Where: Big rivers, Backwaters

Gear: Medium casting rod, Heavy float rig

FreshwaterBig riversBackwatersDeep bends

Gear: Heavy rod, large conventional reel, heavy braid or mono, and legal gar rigging.

Baits/Lures: Cut carp, Mullet, Heavy float rig

Location guidance

Big rivers, Backwaters, Deep bends, Reservoir flats near Trinity River, Brazos River, Choke Canyon Reservoir.

BoatBank where legal and safe

Target big rivers, backwaters, slough mouths, and deep bends without claiming harvest legality.

Season / conditions

Warm months and calm surface activity can reveal fish, but local rules and ethics matter.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

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Spanish Mackerel

Scomberomorus maculatus

A fast nearshore predator that pushes through passes, surf, jetties, and bait schools when clean water lines up.

Where: Passes, Surf

Gear: Medium spinning rod, Gotcha plug

SaltwaterPassesSurfJetties

Gear: 7' medium spinning setup with 10-20 lb braid and fluorocarbon leader; size up for surf, jetties, or heavy current.

Baits/Lures: Glass minnow imitation, Small baitfish, Gotcha plug

Location guidance

Passes, Surf, Jetties, Bait schools near Galveston Bay, Port Aransas jetties, Lower Laguna Madre.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Use tide movement, bait presence, wind direction, and clean water to choose between Passes, Surf, Jetties.

Season / conditions

Tide, wind, and water clarity shape the bite more than the calendar; verify current regulations before keeping fish.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Pompano

Trachinotus carolinus

A compact surf and sandy-trough fish that rewards clean water, moving tides, and small bottom presentations.

Where: Surf guts, Sandy troughs

Gear: Medium spinning rod, Pompano rig

SaltwaterSurf gutsSandy troughsPass edges

Gear: 7' medium spinning setup with 10-20 lb braid and fluorocarbon leader; size up for surf, jetties, or heavy current.

Baits/Lures: Fish bites, Shrimp, Pompano rig

Location guidance

Surf guts, Sandy troughs, Pass edges, Grass flats near Galveston Bay, Port Aransas jetties, Lower Laguna Madre.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Use tide movement, bait presence, wind direction, and clean water to choose between Surf guts, Sandy troughs, Pass edges.

Season / conditions

Tide, wind, and water clarity shape the bite more than the calendar; verify current regulations before keeping fish.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

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Jack Crevalle

Caranx hippos

A hard-pulling roaming fish that tracks bait through channels, surf, and passes.

Where: Channels, Surf

Gear: Medium spinning rod, Topwater plug

SaltwaterChannelsSurfPasses

Gear: 7' medium spinning setup with 10-20 lb braid and fluorocarbon leader; size up for surf, jetties, or heavy current.

Baits/Lures: Baitfish imitation, Mullet, Topwater plug

Location guidance

Channels, Surf, Passes, Bait schools near Galveston Bay, Port Aransas jetties, Lower Laguna Madre.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Use tide movement, bait presence, wind direction, and clean water to choose between Channels, Surf, Passes.

Season / conditions

Tide, wind, and water clarity shape the bite more than the calendar; verify current regulations before keeping fish.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Ladyfish

Elops saurus

A lively bait-chaser that often shows around moving water, dock lights, channels, and schools of small forage.

Where: Lights, Channels

Gear: Medium spinning rod, Small jig

SaltwaterLightsChannelsBait schools

Gear: 7' medium spinning setup with 10-20 lb braid and fluorocarbon leader; size up for surf, jetties, or heavy current.

Baits/Lures: Glass minnow imitation, Shrimp, Small jig

Location guidance

Lights, Channels, Bait schools, Passes near Galveston Bay, Port Aransas jetties, Lower Laguna Madre.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Use tide movement, bait presence, wind direction, and clean water to choose between Lights, Channels, Bait schools.

Season / conditions

Tide, wind, and water clarity shape the bite more than the calendar; verify current regulations before keeping fish.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Croaker

Micropogonias undulatus

A bottom-oriented inshore fish that feeds around sandy or muddy channels, piers, and bay edges.

Where: Sandy bottom, Channels

Gear: Medium spinning rod, Small bottom rig

SaltwaterSandy bottomChannelsPiers

Gear: 7' medium spinning setup with 10-20 lb braid and fluorocarbon leader; size up for surf, jetties, or heavy current.

Baits/Lures: Shrimp, Fish bites, Small bottom rig

Location guidance

Sandy bottom, Channels, Piers, Bay edges near Galveston Bay, Port Aransas jetties, Lower Laguna Madre.

PierShoreBoatKayak

Use tide movement, bait presence, wind direction, and clean water to choose between Sandy bottom, Channels, Piers.

Season / conditions

Tide, wind, and water clarity shape the bite more than the calendar; verify current regulations before keeping fish.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

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Whiting

Menticirrhus species

A simple surf and sandy-trough target that can stay approachable with shrimp, fish bites, and light bottom rigs.

Where: Surf, Sandy troughs

Gear: Medium spinning rod, Pompano rig

SaltwaterSurfSandy troughsPass edges

Gear: 7' medium spinning setup with 10-20 lb braid and fluorocarbon leader; size up for surf, jetties, or heavy current.

Baits/Lures: Shrimp, Fish bites, Pompano rig

Location guidance

Surf, Sandy troughs, Pass edges, Grass flats near Galveston Bay, Port Aransas jetties, Lower Laguna Madre.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Use tide movement, bait presence, wind direction, and clean water to choose between Surf, Sandy troughs, Pass edges.

Season / conditions

Tide, wind, and water clarity shape the bite more than the calendar; verify current regulations before keeping fish.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

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Sand Trout

Cynoscion arenarius

A channel and deeper-edge trout that can stack around current, bait, and bottom transitions.

Where: Channels, Deeper edges

Gear: Medium spinning rod, Jig head

SaltwaterChannelsDeeper edgesPasses

Gear: 7' medium spinning setup with 10-20 lb braid and fluorocarbon leader; size up for surf, jetties, or heavy current.

Baits/Lures: Shrimp, Small soft plastic, Jig head

Location guidance

Channels, Deeper edges, Passes, Bait schools near Galveston Bay, Port Aransas jetties, Lower Laguna Madre.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Use tide movement, bait presence, wind direction, and clean water to choose between Channels, Deeper edges, Passes.

Season / conditions

Tide, wind, and water clarity shape the bite more than the calendar; verify current regulations before keeping fish.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

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Gafftop Catfish

Bagre marinus

A scent-oriented coastal catfish that can produce bites in stained channels, muddy bottom, and moving water.

Where: Channels, Muddy bottom

Gear: Medium spinning rod, Slip sinker rig

SaltwaterChannelsMuddy bottomBay edges

Gear: 7' medium spinning setup with 10-20 lb braid and fluorocarbon leader; size up for surf, jetties, or heavy current.

Baits/Lures: Cut bait, Shrimp, Slip sinker rig

Location guidance

Channels, Muddy bottom, Bay edges, Passes near Galveston Bay, Port Aransas jetties, Lower Laguna Madre.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Use tide movement, bait presence, wind direction, and clean water to choose between Channels, Muddy bottom, Bay edges.

Season / conditions

Tide, wind, and water clarity shape the bite more than the calendar; verify current regulations before keeping fish.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

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Sheepshead

Archosargus probatocephalus

A structure-focused bait thief that feeds on barnacles, crabs, and shrimp around jetties, pilings, docks, and rocks.

Where: Jetty rocks, Bridge pilings

Gear: Medium spinning rod, Knocker rig

SaltwaterJetty rocksBridge pilingsDocks

Gear: 7' medium spinning rod, 2500-3000 reel, 15-20 lb braid, short fluorocarbon leader.

Baits/Lures: Fiddler crab, Live shrimp, Knocker rig

Location guidance

Jetty rocks, Bridge pilings, Docks, Bulkheads near Galveston jetties, Port Aransas jetties, South Padre pilings.

PierJettyBoatKayak

Use small hooks and crab or shrimp near barnacles, pilings, bulkheads, and jetty rocks.

Season / conditions

Late winter and spring structure bites can be strong around rocks and pilings.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

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Rainbow Trout

Oncorhynchus mykiss

Rainbow Trout is a limited Texas coldwater or stocked opportunity, not a general warmwater reservoir target.

Where: Stocked ponds, Urban lakes in season

Gear: Ultralight or light spinning setup with 2-6 lb line., Small spinners

FreshwaterStocked pondsUrban lakes in seasonCold tailwaters

Gear: Ultralight or light spinning setup with 2-6 lb line.

Baits/Lures: Trout dough bait, Salmon eggs, Small spinners, Small spoons

Location guidance

Stocked ponds, Urban lakes in season, Cold tailwaters, Clear moving water near TPWD stocked ponds, Guadalupe River tailwater, urban neighborhood lakes.

ShorePierWade

Verify stocking schedules and local rules, then fish small baits with light line.

Season / conditions

Stocked trout opportunities depend on local stocking schedules and cool-water conditions.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Brown Trout

Salmo trutta

Brown Trout is a limited Texas coldwater or stocked opportunity, not a general warmwater reservoir target.

Where: Stocked ponds, Urban lakes in season

Gear: Ultralight or light spinning setup with 2-6 lb line., Small spinners

FreshwaterStocked pondsUrban lakes in seasonCold tailwaters

Gear: Ultralight or light spinning setup with 2-6 lb line.

Baits/Lures: Trout dough bait, Salmon eggs, Small spinners, Small spoons

Location guidance

Stocked ponds, Urban lakes in season, Cold tailwaters, Clear moving water near TPWD stocked ponds, Guadalupe River tailwater, urban neighborhood lakes.

ShorePierWade

Verify stocking schedules and local rules, then fish small baits with light line.

Season / conditions

Stocked trout opportunities depend on local stocking schedules and cool-water conditions.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Rio Grande Cichlid

Herichthys cyanoguttatus

A Texas native cichlid that eats small natural baits around warm streams, canals, rocky edges, vegetation, and slow current.

Where: Clear streams, Rocky edges

Gear: Ultralight or light spinning setup, cane pole, 4-6 lb line, and small hooks., Small jigs

FreshwaterClear streamsRocky edgesVegetation

Gear: Ultralight or light spinning setup, cane pole, 4-6 lb line, and small hooks.

Baits/Lures: Worms, Bread, Small jigs, Tiny grubs

Location guidance

Clear streams, Rocky edges, Vegetation, Bridge edges near Lower Rio Grande canals, San Antonio River edges, clear Hill Country streams.

ShoreWadeKayak

Look for rocks, vegetation, bridge shade, and slow current where small fish can hold.

Season / conditions

Warm, clear, low-current edges are usually easier to fish; use small hooks and light line.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Green Sunfish

Lepomis cyanellus

Green Sunfish is a beginner-friendly sunfish that eats small baits around vegetation, brush, creeks, pond edges, shade, and reachable cover.

Where: Creek pockets, Brush

Gear: Ugly Stik GX2 7' Spinning Rod/Reel Combo Travel Kit, Ugly Stik GX2 6' Spinning Combo

FreshwaterCreek pocketsBrushPond edges

Gear: Ultralight or light spinning setup with 4-8 lb line and small hooks.

Baits/Lures: Worms, Crickets, Small jigs, Tiny spinners

Location guidance

Creek pockets, Brush, Pond edges, Dock shade near community lakes, farm ponds, creek backwaters.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Fish slowly around shade, grass, brush, docks, and protected banks.

Season / conditions

Warm months around cover are usually easiest; small hooks and light line matter.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Redear Sunfish

Lepomis microlophus

A bottom-feeding sunfish that roots around shell, vegetation, and quiet edges for snails, worms, and small invertebrates.

Where: Shell beds, Vegetation edges

Gear: Ugly Stik GX2 7' Spinning Rod/Reel Combo Travel Kit, Ugly Stik GX2 6' Spinning Combo

FreshwaterShell bedsVegetation edgesPond banks

Gear: Ultralight or light spinning setup with 4-8 lb line and small hooks.

Baits/Lures: Worms, Crickets, Small jigs, Tiny spinners

Location guidance

Shell beds, Vegetation edges, Pond banks, Quiet coves near community lakes, farm ponds, creek backwaters.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Keep worms close to bottom around shell, grass edges, and quiet coves.

Season / conditions

Warm months around cover are usually easiest; small hooks and light line matter.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Longear Sunfish

Lepomis megalotis

Longear Sunfish is a beginner-friendly sunfish that eats small baits around vegetation, brush, creeks, pond edges, shade, and reachable cover.

Where: Creek edges, Vegetation

Gear: Ugly Stik GX2 7' Spinning Rod/Reel Combo Travel Kit, Ugly Stik GX2 6' Spinning Combo

FreshwaterCreek edgesVegetationRocky banks

Gear: Ultralight or light spinning setup with 4-8 lb line and small hooks.

Baits/Lures: Worms, Crickets, Small jigs, Tiny spinners

Location guidance

Creek edges, Vegetation, Rocky banks, Backwaters near community lakes, farm ponds, creek backwaters.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Fish slowly around shade, grass, brush, docks, and protected banks.

Season / conditions

Warm months around cover are usually easiest; small hooks and light line matter.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Warmouth

Lepomis gulosus

A cover-loving sunfish that hits small baits and jigs around brush, timber, backwaters, and swampy low-current edges.

Where: Heavy brush, Backwaters

Gear: Ultralight or light spinning setup with 4-8 lb line and small hooks., Small jigs

FreshwaterHeavy brushBackwatersSwampy edges

Gear: Ultralight or light spinning setup with 4-8 lb line and small hooks.

Baits/Lures: Worms, Crickets, Small jigs, Tiny spinners

Location guidance

Heavy brush, Backwaters, Swampy edges, Timber near community lakes, farm ponds, creek backwaters.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Pitch small baits tight to brush, weeds, shaded timber, and slow backwater cover.

Season / conditions

Warm months around cover are usually easiest; small hooks and light line matter.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Yellow Bass

Morone mississippiensis

A schooling reservoir bass that follows shad around points, humps, channels, and wind-blown banks.

Where: Main-lake points, Channel edges

Gear: Ugly Stik GX2 7' Spinning Rod/Reel Combo Travel Kit, Ugly Stik GX2 6' Spinning Combo

FreshwaterMain-lake pointsChannel edgesHumps

Gear: Light or medium spinning setup with 6-10 lb line.

Baits/Lures: Minnows, Small shad pieces, Small spoons, Road runners

Location guidance

Main-lake points, Channel edges, Humps, Wind-blown banks near Cedar Creek Reservoir, Lake Livingston, Lake Waco.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Start around bait schools, points, humps, and wind-blown edges.

Season / conditions

Schooling windows depend on shad and current; watch birds and surface activity.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Freshwater Drum

Aplodinotus grunniens

A bottom-oriented freshwater fish that feeds around current, rocks, riprap, channel edges, and deeper flats.

Where: River current seams, Rocky banks

Gear: Medium spinning or casting setup with enough weight to hold bottom., Small jigs

FreshwaterRiver current seamsRocky banksChannel edges

Gear: Medium spinning or casting setup with enough weight to hold bottom.

Baits/Lures: Worms, Crawfish, Small jigs, Bottom rigs

Location guidance

River current seams, Rocky banks, Channel edges, Riprap near Guadalupe River, Lake Texoma, Colorado River.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Keep presentations close to bottom around rocks, current breaks, riprap, and flats.

Season / conditions

Often caught near bottom; current and rock can matter more than lure color.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Common Carp

Cyprinus carpio

Common Carp is a cautious bottom or vegetation-oriented fish where stealth, simple bait, and patient presentations beat lure casting.

Where: Muddy flats, Shallow coves

Gear: 7' medium spinning rod with strong line and a simple bait rig., Small bottom rigs

FreshwaterMuddy flatsShallow covesGrass edges

Gear: 7' medium spinning rod with strong line and a simple bait rig.

Baits/Lures: Corn, Dough bait, Small bottom rigs, Float rigs

Location guidance

Muddy flats, Shallow coves, Grass edges, Canals near community lakes, slow rivers, canals.

ShoreBoatKayak

Watch for mud clouds, bubbles, cruising fish, and quiet feeding edges.

Season / conditions

Warm, calm shallows can show feeding fish; avoid spooking them with heavy foot traffic.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Grass Carp

Ctenopharyngodon idella

A wary vegetation-oriented carp often found around grass, canals, and quiet pond or lake edges.

Where: Vegetation, Pond edges

Gear: 7' medium spinning rod with strong line and a simple bait rig., Small bottom rigs

FreshwaterVegetationPond edgesLake edges

Gear: 7' medium spinning rod with strong line and a simple bait rig.

Baits/Lures: Bread, Corn, Small bottom rigs, Float rigs

Location guidance

Vegetation, Pond edges, Lake edges, Canals near community lakes, slow rivers, canals.

ShoreBoatKayak

Stay quiet and present baits naturally near visible vegetation and cruising fish.

Season / conditions

Use stealth and check local rules because some grass carp are stocked or managed.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Smallmouth Buffalo

Ictiobus bubalus

Smallmouth Buffalo is a native bottom-feeding sucker-type fish found around rivers, reservoirs, flats, channels, and current breaks.

Where: Deep flats, River holes

Gear: Medium spinning or casting setup with a patient bottom presentation., Small bottom rigs

FreshwaterDeep flatsRiver holesChannel edges

Gear: Medium spinning or casting setup with a patient bottom presentation.

Baits/Lures: Dough bait, Corn, Small bottom rigs

Location guidance

Deep flats, River holes, Channel edges, Current breaks near Trinity River, Brazos River, large Texas reservoirs.

ShoreBoatKayak

Set up near current breaks, muddy bottom, deeper flats, and channel edges.

Season / conditions

Bottom presentation, patience, and feeding areas matter more than lure action.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Bigmouth Buffalo

Ictiobus cyprinellus

Bigmouth Buffalo is a native bottom-feeding sucker-type fish found around rivers, reservoirs, flats, channels, and current breaks.

Where: Deep flats, River holes

Gear: Medium spinning or casting setup with a patient bottom presentation., Small bottom rigs

FreshwaterDeep flatsRiver holesChannel edges

Gear: Medium spinning or casting setup with a patient bottom presentation.

Baits/Lures: Dough bait, Corn, Small bottom rigs

Location guidance

Deep flats, River holes, Channel edges, Current breaks near Trinity River, Brazos River, large Texas reservoirs.

ShoreBoatKayak

Set up near current breaks, muddy bottom, deeper flats, and channel edges.

Season / conditions

Bottom presentation, patience, and feeding areas matter more than lure action.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Longnose Gar

Lepisosteus osseus

Longnose Gar is a surface-oriented gar of slow rivers, backwaters, bayous, creeks, shallow flats, and warm calm pockets.

Where: Slow rivers, Backwaters

Gear: Reaction Tackle Wire Leaders

FreshwaterSlow riversBackwatersBayous

Gear: Medium-heavy spinning or casting setup with abrasion-resistant leader.

Baits/Lures: Cut bait, Live bait, Rope lures, Small fish imitation lures

Location guidance

Slow rivers, Backwaters, Bayous, Creeks near Trinity River backwaters, East Texas bayous, Brazos River sloughs.

ShoreBoatKayak

Look for surface activity in calm pockets, backwaters, creek mouths, and shallow flats.

Season / conditions

Hard mouths make hooksets and landing slower; check rules before harvest.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Spotted Gar

Lepisosteus oculatus

Spotted Gar is a surface-oriented gar of slow rivers, backwaters, bayous, creeks, shallow flats, and warm calm pockets.

Where: Slow rivers, Backwaters

Gear: Reaction Tackle Wire Leaders

FreshwaterSlow riversBackwatersBayous

Gear: Medium-heavy spinning or casting setup with abrasion-resistant leader.

Baits/Lures: Cut bait, Live bait, Rope lures, Small fish imitation lures

Location guidance

Slow rivers, Backwaters, Bayous, Creeks near Trinity River backwaters, East Texas bayous, Brazos River sloughs.

ShoreBoatKayak

Look for surface activity in calm pockets, backwaters, creek mouths, and shallow flats.

Season / conditions

Hard mouths make hooksets and landing slower; check rules before harvest.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Shortnose Gar

Lepisosteus platostomus

Shortnose Gar is a surface-oriented gar of slow rivers, backwaters, bayous, creeks, shallow flats, and warm calm pockets.

Where: Slow rivers, Backwaters

Gear: Reaction Tackle Wire Leaders

FreshwaterSlow riversBackwatersBayous

Gear: Medium-heavy spinning or casting setup with abrasion-resistant leader.

Baits/Lures: Cut bait, Live bait, Rope lures, Small fish imitation lures

Location guidance

Slow rivers, Backwaters, Bayous, Creeks near Trinity River backwaters, East Texas bayous, Brazos River sloughs.

ShoreBoatKayak

Look for surface activity in calm pockets, backwaters, creek mouths, and shallow flats.

Season / conditions

Hard mouths make hooksets and landing slower; check rules before harvest.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Bowfin

Amia calva

A tough predator that lives around swampy backwaters, weeds, timber, muddy edges, and low-current cover.

Where: Sloughs, Backwaters

Gear: Medium-heavy setup with abrasion-resistant leader., Spinnerbaits

FreshwaterSloughsBackwatersWeeds

Gear: Medium-heavy setup with abrasion-resistant leader.

Baits/Lures: Cut bait, Live bait, Spinnerbaits, Frogs

Location guidance

Sloughs, Backwaters, Weeds, Timber near East Texas backwaters, sloughs, timbered creeks.

ShoreBoatKayak

Work baits close to weeds, timber, shade, and muddy low-current edges.

Season / conditions

Use stout tackle around cover; these fish are strong and hard on gear.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Chain Pickerel

Esox niger

An ambush predator that uses grass, shallow coves, creek arms, and clear backwater cover.

Where: Vegetation, Shallow coves

Gear: Light or medium spinning setup with light wire or abrasion-resistant leader., Small spinnerbaits

FreshwaterVegetationShallow covesCreek arms

Gear: Light or medium spinning setup with light wire or abrasion-resistant leader.

Baits/Lures: Live minnows, Small spinnerbaits, Spoons

Location guidance

Vegetation, Shallow coves, Creek arms, Clear backwaters near East Texas creeks, vegetated reservoirs, clear backwaters.

ShoreBoatKayak

Cast parallel to grass edges, shade lines, and creek-arm cover.

Season / conditions

Fish edges of grass and cover; pickerel often strike from ambush.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Bullhead Catfish

Ameiurus species

A smaller catfish of ponds, creeks, muddy bottoms, and nighttime feeding lanes where scent-based baits shine.

Where: Muddy pond bottoms, Creek holes

Gear: Texas Bank Fishing Bundle, Texas Bottom Rig Bundle

FreshwaterMuddy pond bottomsCreek holesRiprap

Gear: Light-medium or medium spinning setup with small bottom rigs.

Baits/Lures: Worms, Stink bait, Slip sinker rigs, Small bottom rigs

Location guidance

Muddy pond bottoms, Creek holes, Riprap, Timber edges near farm ponds, community lakes, slow creeks.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Keep small baited rigs near bottom around mud, wood, riprap, and creek holes.

Season / conditions

Night and low-light periods can be productive; scent matters more than lure action.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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White Crappie

Pomoxis annularis

White Crappie is a schooling panfish that relates to brush, timber, docks, bridge pilings, and creek-channel edges.

Where: Brush piles, Standing timber

Gear: Ugly Stik GX2 7' Spinning Rod/Reel Combo Travel Kit, Ugly Stik GX2 6' Spinning Combo

FreshwaterBrush pilesStanding timberBridge columns

Gear: Ultralight or light spinning setup with 4-8 lb line.

Baits/Lures: Minnows, Crappie jigs, Small tubes

Location guidance

Brush piles, Standing timber, Bridge columns, Docks near Lake Fork, Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Cedar Creek Reservoir.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Use brush, timber, bridge shade, docks, bait, and depth changes to set your starting depth.

Season / conditions

Fish deeper in heat or cold and shallower around spawning cover.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Black Crappie

Pomoxis nigromaculatus

Black Crappie is a schooling panfish that relates to brush, timber, docks, bridge pilings, and creek-channel edges.

Where: Brush piles, Standing timber

Gear: Ugly Stik GX2 7' Spinning Rod/Reel Combo Travel Kit, Ugly Stik GX2 6' Spinning Combo

FreshwaterBrush pilesStanding timberBridge columns

Gear: Ultralight or light spinning setup with 4-8 lb line.

Baits/Lures: Minnows, Crappie jigs, Small tubes

Location guidance

Brush piles, Standing timber, Bridge columns, Docks near Lake Fork, Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Cedar Creek Reservoir.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Use brush, timber, bridge shade, docks, bait, and depth changes to set your starting depth.

Season / conditions

Fish deeper in heat or cold and shallower around spawning cover.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Spotted Bass

Micropterus punctulatus

A rock and current-oriented black bass that favors clear reservoirs, bluff banks, points, seams, and creek-channel structure.

Where: Rocky points, Bluff banks

Gear: Ugly Stik GX2 7' Spinning Rod/Reel Combo Travel Kit, Ugly Stik GX2 6' Spinning Combo

FreshwaterRocky pointsBluff banksClear reservoirs

Gear: Medium spinning or baitcasting setup with 8-12 lb line for finesse presentations.

Baits/Lures: Crawfish imitations, Shad imitations, Finesse worms, Shaky heads

Location guidance

Rocky points, Bluff banks, Clear reservoirs, Current seams near Lake Texoma, clear Hill Country reservoirs, rocky river sections.

ShoreBoatKayak

Start on rock, bluff shade, channel swings, current seams, and baitfish edges.

Season / conditions

More rock and current-oriented than largemouth; adjust depth with water temperature and light.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Yellowfin Tuna

Thunnus albacares

Yellowfin Tuna is a bluewater species that depends on boat access, bait, current, floating structure, and offshore water conditions.

Where: Offshore rigs, Deep blue water

Gear: heavy offshore spinning or conventional setup, Trolling lures

SaltwaterOffshore rigsDeep blue waterShrimp boats

Gear: heavy offshore spinning or conventional setup

Baits/Lures: Chunk bait, Live bait, Trolling lures, Poppers

Location guidance

Offshore rigs, Deep blue water, Shrimp boats, Weed lines near Gulf bluewater yellowfin tuna grounds, offshore rigs, weed lines and current breaks.

BoatOffshore

Run to offshore structure or bluewater signs before choosing trolling, jigging, popping, or bait tactics.

Season / conditions

Look for current, baitfish, birds, weed lines, color changes, or floating structure.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Blackfin Tuna

Thunnus atlanticus

Blackfin Tuna is a bluewater species that depends on boat access, bait, current, floating structure, and offshore water conditions.

Where: Offshore rigs, Deep blue water

Gear: medium-heavy offshore spinning or conventional setup, Small jigs

SaltwaterOffshore rigsDeep blue waterShrimp boats

Gear: medium-heavy offshore spinning or conventional setup

Baits/Lures: Chunk bait, Live bait, Small jigs, Trolling feathers

Location guidance

Offshore rigs, Deep blue water, Shrimp boats, Weed lines near Gulf bluewater blackfin tuna grounds, offshore rigs, weed lines and current breaks.

BoatOffshore

Run to offshore structure or bluewater signs before choosing trolling, jigging, popping, or bait tactics.

Season / conditions

Look for current, baitfish, birds, weed lines, color changes, or floating structure.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

King Mackerel

Scomberomorus cavalla

A fast toothy pelagic found around nearshore and offshore bait, rigs, jetties, passes, and reefs.

Where: Nearshore reefs, Offshore rigs

Gear: 7' medium-heavy saltwater rod, fast reel, braid, and short wire leader., Spoons

SaltwaterNearshore reefsOffshore rigsJetties

Gear: 7' medium-heavy saltwater rod, fast reel, braid, and short wire leader.

Baits/Lures: Live bait, Ribbonfish, Spoons, Trolling plugs

Location guidance

Nearshore reefs, Offshore rigs, Jetties, Passes near Galveston jetties, Port Aransas jetties, nearshore Gulf rigs.

PierJettyBoat

Look for bait pushed around jetties, passes, rigs, and nearshore color changes.

Season / conditions

Wire leader helps with toothy strikes; bait schools are the starting point.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Cobia

Rachycentron canadum

A structure and sight-casting target that follows buoys, rigs, jetties, rays, floating debris, and nearshore edges.

Where: Buoys, Rigs

Gear: Medium-heavy spinning or conventional setup with strong leader., Bucktail jigs

SaltwaterBuoysRigsJetties

Gear: Medium-heavy spinning or conventional setup with strong leader.

Baits/Lures: Live bait, Crabs, Bucktail jigs, Eel-style plastics

Location guidance

Buoys, Rigs, Jetties, Rays near nearshore Gulf buoys, Port Aransas jetties, offshore rigs.

PierJettyBoat

Keep a bait or jig ready around buoys, rays, floating debris, and rig legs.

Season / conditions

Sight-casting around structure and rays can be excellent when water is clean.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Tripletail

Lobotes surinamensis

A floating-structure fish that hangs near crab trap buoys, channel markers, weed lines, and debris.

Where: Crab trap buoys, Channel markers

Gear: Medium inshore or nearshore spinning setup., Small jigs

SaltwaterCrab trap buoysChannel markersFloating debris

Gear: Medium inshore or nearshore spinning setup.

Baits/Lures: Live shrimp, Small baitfish, Small jigs, Popping corks

Location guidance

Crab trap buoys, Channel markers, Floating debris, Weed lines near Matagorda Bay markers, Galveston Bay buoys, nearshore weed lines.

BoatKayak

Idle buoy lines and pitch shrimp or small jigs to visible fish.

Season / conditions

Look before you cast; fish often hold tight to floating structure.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Red Snapper

Lutjanus campechanus

Red Snapper is a structure-oriented reef, rig, wreck, or hard-bottom fish that should be approached with bottom-focused tactics.

Where: Red Snapper reef structure, Rigs

Gear: medium-heavy offshore bottom setup, Red Snapper bottom rigs

SaltwaterRed Snapper reef structureRigsWrecks

Gear: medium-heavy offshore bottom setup

Baits/Lures: Squid, Shrimp, Red Snapper bottom rigs, Small jigs

Location guidance

Red Snapper reef structure, Rigs, Wrecks, Hard bottom near Gulf red snapper structure, offshore rigs, wrecks and reefs.

BoatOffshore

Hold bottom near hard structure, rig legs, wrecks, ledges, and bait marks.

Season / conditions

Bottom fish around hard structure; verify current seasons and limits before harvest.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Lane Snapper

Lutjanus synagris

Lane Snapper is a structure-oriented reef, rig, wreck, or hard-bottom fish that should be approached with bottom-focused tactics.

Where: Lane Snapper reef structure, Rigs

Gear: medium bottom setup, Lane Snapper bottom rigs

SaltwaterLane Snapper reef structureRigsWrecks

Gear: medium bottom setup

Baits/Lures: Squid, Shrimp, Lane Snapper bottom rigs, Small jigs

Location guidance

Lane Snapper reef structure, Rigs, Wrecks, Hard bottom near Gulf lane snapper structure, offshore rigs, wrecks and reefs.

BoatNearshoreOffshore

Hold bottom near hard structure, rig legs, wrecks, ledges, and bait marks.

Season / conditions

Bottom fish around hard structure; verify current seasons and limits before harvest.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Vermilion Snapper

Rhomboplites aurorubens

Vermilion Snapper is a structure-oriented reef, rig, wreck, or hard-bottom fish that should be approached with bottom-focused tactics.

Where: Vermilion Snapper reef structure, Rigs

Gear: medium offshore bottom setup, Vermilion Snapper bottom rigs

SaltwaterVermilion Snapper reef structureRigsWrecks

Gear: medium offshore bottom setup

Baits/Lures: Squid, Shrimp, Vermilion Snapper bottom rigs, Small jigs

Location guidance

Vermilion Snapper reef structure, Rigs, Wrecks, Hard bottom near Gulf vermilion snapper structure, offshore rigs, wrecks and reefs.

BoatOffshore

Hold bottom near hard structure, rig legs, wrecks, ledges, and bait marks.

Season / conditions

Bottom fish around hard structure; verify current seasons and limits before harvest.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Gag Grouper

Mycteroperca microlepis

Gag Grouper is a structure-oriented grouper found around offshore reefs, rock piles, wrecks, rigs, and hard bottom.

Where: Gag Grouper reef structure, Rigs

Gear: Medium-heavy to heavy offshore bottom fishing setup., Vertical jigs

SaltwaterGag Grouper reef structureRigsWrecks

Gear: Medium-heavy to heavy offshore bottom fishing setup.

Baits/Lures: Live bait, Cut bait, Vertical jigs, Heavy bottom rigs

Location guidance

Gag Grouper reef structure, Rigs, Wrecks, Hard bottom near Gulf gag grouper structure, offshore rigs, wrecks and reefs.

BoatOffshore

Hold bottom near hard structure, rig legs, wrecks, ledges, and bait marks.

Season / conditions

Bottom fish around hard structure; verify current seasons and limits before harvest.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Red Grouper

Epinephelus morio

Red Grouper is a structure-oriented grouper found around offshore reefs, rock piles, wrecks, rigs, and hard bottom.

Where: Red Grouper reef structure, Rigs

Gear: Medium-heavy to heavy offshore bottom fishing setup., Vertical jigs

SaltwaterRed Grouper reef structureRigsWrecks

Gear: Medium-heavy to heavy offshore bottom fishing setup.

Baits/Lures: Live bait, Cut bait, Vertical jigs, Heavy bottom rigs

Location guidance

Red Grouper reef structure, Rigs, Wrecks, Hard bottom near Gulf red grouper structure, offshore rigs, wrecks and reefs.

BoatOffshore

Hold bottom near hard structure, rig legs, wrecks, ledges, and bait marks.

Season / conditions

Bottom fish around hard structure; verify current seasons and limits before harvest.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Tarpon

Megalops atlanticus

A large migratory sport fish found around passes, beaches, channels, bridges, bait schools, and rolling fish.

Where: Passes, Beaches

Gear: Heavy spinning or conventional setup with strong leader., Swimbaits

SaltwaterPassesBeachesChannels

Gear: Heavy spinning or conventional setup with strong leader.

Baits/Lures: Live mullet, Crabs, Swimbaits, Plugs

Location guidance

Passes, Beaches, Channels, Bridges near Port Aransas passes, South Padre beaches, Galveston ship channel edges.

BoatPierShore

Watch for rolling fish, bait schools, current seams, and bridge or pass funnels.

Season / conditions

Often handled as catch-and-release; use careful handling and check current rules.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Common Snook

Centropomus undecimalis

A limited Texas warm-water profile for current and structure around southern passes, bridge lights, docks, and mangroves where present.

Where: Mangroves where present, Docks

Gear: Medium-heavy inshore spinning setup with fluorocarbon leader., Paddle tails

SaltwaterMangroves where presentDocksPasses

Gear: Medium-heavy inshore spinning setup with fluorocarbon leader.

Baits/Lures: Live shrimp, Finger mullet, Paddle tails, Jerkbaits

Location guidance

Mangroves where present, Docks, Passes, Bridge lights near Lower Laguna Madre, South Padre channels, southern bridge lights.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Current and structure are key, especially lights, passes, docks, and mangrove edges where present.

Season / conditions

Texas opportunities are limited and southern; verify local rules before keeping fish.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Gray Triggerfish

Balistes capriscus

Gray Triggerfish is a structure-oriented reef, rig, wreck, or hard-bottom fish that should be approached with bottom-focused tactics.

Where: Gray Triggerfish reef structure, Rigs

Gear: medium bottom setup, Gray Triggerfish bottom rigs

SaltwaterGray Triggerfish reef structureRigsWrecks

Gear: medium bottom setup

Baits/Lures: Squid, Shrimp, Gray Triggerfish bottom rigs, Small jigs

Location guidance

Gray Triggerfish reef structure, Rigs, Wrecks, Hard bottom near Gulf gray triggerfish structure, offshore rigs, wrecks and reefs.

BoatOffshore

Hold bottom near hard structure, rig legs, wrecks, ledges, and bait marks.

Season / conditions

Bottom fish around hard structure; verify current seasons and limits before harvest.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Atlantic Spadefish

Chaetodipterus faber

A structure-oriented schooling fish around rigs, jetties, pilings, reefs, and nearshore structure.

Where: Rigs, Jetties

Gear: 7' medium spinning rod with small strong hooks and light leader., Small jigs

SaltwaterRigsJettiesPilings

Gear: 7' medium spinning rod with small strong hooks and light leader.

Baits/Lures: Small pieces of shrimp, Clam, Small jigs

Location guidance

Rigs, Jetties, Pilings, Reefs near Galveston jetties, Port Aransas jetties, nearshore rigs.

PierJettyBoat

Fish tight to pilings, jetty rocks, rigs, and visible schools.

Season / conditions

Small hooks and light leader often help around clear structure.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Blacktip Shark

Carcharhinus limbatus

Blacktip Shark is a shark profile where tackle strength, safe handling, legal access, and current protected-species guidance matter.

Where: Surf, Passes

Gear: Reaction Tackle Wire Leaders

SaltwaterSurfPassesJetties

Gear: Heavy shark setup with wire or heavy leader and non-offset circle hooks where required.

Baits/Lures: Cut mullet, Ladyfish, Heavy bait rigs

Location guidance

Surf, Passes, Jetties, Nearshore bait schools near Texas surf, passes, nearshore bait schools.

ShorePierBoat

Fish around bait schools, passes, channels, jetties, or surf cuts with careful handling plans.

Season / conditions

For sharks, check current rules and protected species guidance before harvest.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Bonnethead Shark

Sphyrna tiburo

Bonnethead Shark is a shark profile where tackle strength, safe handling, legal access, and current protected-species guidance matter.

Where: Flats, Channels

Gear: Reaction Tackle Wire Leaders

SaltwaterFlatsChannelsGrass edges

Gear: Heavy shark setup with wire or heavy leader and non-offset circle hooks where required.

Baits/Lures: Cut mullet, Ladyfish, Heavy bait rigs

Location guidance

Flats, Channels, Grass edges, Sandy bottoms near Texas surf, passes, nearshore bait schools.

ShoreBoatKayak

Fish around bait schools, passes, channels, jetties, or surf cuts with careful handling plans.

Season / conditions

For sharks, check current rules and protected species guidance before harvest.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Bull Shark

Carcharhinus leucas

Bull Shark is a shark profile where tackle strength, safe handling, legal access, and current protected-species guidance matter.

Where: Surf, Passes

Gear: Reaction Tackle Wire Leaders

SaltwaterSurfPassesBays

Gear: Heavy shark setup with wire or heavy leader and non-offset circle hooks where required.

Baits/Lures: Cut mullet, Ladyfish, Heavy bait rigs

Location guidance

Surf, Passes, Bays, Channels near Texas surf, passes, nearshore bait schools.

ShorePierBoat

Fish around bait schools, passes, channels, jetties, or surf cuts with careful handling plans.

Season / conditions

For sharks, check current rules and protected species guidance before harvest.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Hardhead Catfish

Ariopsis felis

A common coastal catfish and frequent bycatch around piers, channels, surf, muddy bottoms, and bay edges.

Where: Piers, Channels

Gear: Ugly Stik Bigwater Fishing Rod & Penn Pursuit IV Spinning Reel Combo, Texas Bottom Rig Bundle

SaltwaterPiersChannelsSurf

Gear: Light-medium or medium inshore setup with a simple bottom rig.

Baits/Lures: Shrimp, Squid, Small bottom rigs

Location guidance

Piers, Channels, Surf, Muddy bottoms near Galveston piers, Port Aransas channels, bay shorelines.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Expect bites on scented baits near muddy bottom, channels, piers, and surf cuts.

Season / conditions

Common bycatch; use caution with sharp spines.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Pigfish

Orthopristis chrysoptera

Pigfish is a small common coastal catch and forage fish around grass flats, docks, piers, channels, and structure.

Where: Grass flats, Docks

Gear: Light spinning or bait-catching setup with small hooks., Sabiki rigs

SaltwaterGrass flatsDocksPiers

Gear: Light spinning or bait-catching setup with small hooks.

Baits/Lures: Small pieces of shrimp, Squid, Sabiki rigs, Tiny jigs

Location guidance

Grass flats, Docks, Piers, Channels near bay piers, grass flats, dock lights.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Use tiny bait pieces around grass, lights, docks, and bait schools.

Season / conditions

Often useful as bait or a beginner catch; check rules before keeping or using as bait.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Pinfish

Lagodon rhomboides

Pinfish is a small common coastal catch and forage fish around grass flats, docks, piers, channels, and structure.

Where: Grass flats, Docks

Gear: Light spinning or bait-catching setup with small hooks., Sabiki rigs

SaltwaterGrass flatsDocksPiers

Gear: Light spinning or bait-catching setup with small hooks.

Baits/Lures: Small pieces of shrimp, Squid, Sabiki rigs, Tiny jigs

Location guidance

Grass flats, Docks, Piers, Channels near bay piers, grass flats, dock lights.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Use tiny bait pieces around grass, lights, docks, and bait schools.

Season / conditions

Often useful as bait or a beginner catch; check rules before keeping or using as bait.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Lookdown

Selene vomer

Lookdown is a schooling coastal fish found around structure, piers, jetties, bait schools, current, and lights.

Where: Piers, Jetties

Gear: Light or medium spinning setup., Small jigs

SaltwaterPiersJettiesBait schools

Gear: Light or medium spinning setup.

Baits/Lures: Shrimp, Small bait pieces, Small jigs, Sabiki rigs

Location guidance

Piers, Jetties, Bait schools, Structure near coastal piers, jetty lights, bay channels.

PierShoreBoat

Watch lights, bait flickers, current seams, and small surface feeds.

Season / conditions

Schooling fish around current and lights can turn on quickly.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Permit

Trachinotus falcatus

A wary fish of flats, channels, jetties, nearshore structure, and clear moving water where stealth matters.

Where: Flats, Channels

Gear: Medium-heavy spinning setup with fluorocarbon leader., Small jigs

SaltwaterFlatsChannelsJetties

Gear: Medium-heavy spinning setup with fluorocarbon leader.

Baits/Lures: Live crab, Shrimp, Small jigs

Location guidance

Flats, Channels, Jetties, Nearshore structure near Lower Laguna channels, South Texas jetties, nearshore structure.

BoatKayakShore

Use clear moving water, visible fish, channel edges, and structure to pick casts.

Season / conditions

Wary fish; stealth and natural presentations matter.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Creolefish

Paranthias furcifer

Creolefish is a structure-oriented reef, rig, wreck, or hard-bottom fish that should be approached with bottom-focused tactics.

Where: Creolefish reef structure, Rigs

Gear: medium offshore spinning or conventional setup, Creolefish bottom rigs

SaltwaterCreolefish reef structureRigsWrecks

Gear: medium offshore spinning or conventional setup

Baits/Lures: Squid, Shrimp, Creolefish bottom rigs, Small jigs

Location guidance

Creolefish reef structure, Rigs, Wrecks, Hard bottom near Gulf creolefish structure, offshore rigs, wrecks and reefs.

BoatOffshore

Hold bottom near hard structure, rig legs, wrecks, ledges, and bait marks.

Season / conditions

Bottom fish around hard structure; verify current seasons and limits before harvest.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Blue Runner

Caranx crysos

Blue Runner is a schooling coastal fish found around structure, piers, jetties, bait schools, current, and lights.

Where: Piers, Jetties

Gear: Light or medium spinning setup., Small jigs

SaltwaterPiersJettiesBait schools

Gear: Light or medium spinning setup.

Baits/Lures: Shrimp, Small bait pieces, Small jigs, Sabiki rigs

Location guidance

Piers, Jetties, Bait schools, Structure near coastal piers, jetty lights, bay channels.

PierShoreBoat

Watch lights, bait flickers, current seams, and small surface feeds.

Season / conditions

Schooling fish around current and lights can turn on quickly.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Puppy Drum

Pogonias cromis

A juvenile black drum profile for beginner-friendly inshore fishing around marsh drains, flats, channels, piers, oyster, and grass edges.

Where: Marsh drains, Flats

Gear: Medium inshore setup with a small bottom rig., Small bottom rigs

SaltwaterMarsh drainsFlatsChannels

Gear: Medium inshore setup with a small bottom rig.

Baits/Lures: Shrimp, Crab, Small bottom rigs

Location guidance

Marsh drains, Flats, Channels, Piers near Galveston Bay marshes, Corpus Christi Bay piers, Aransas channels.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Use scent on bottom near drains, oyster, grass edges, piers, and channels.

Season / conditions

Moving tide helps; check current TPWD rules before keeping fish.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Sailfish

Istiophorus platypterus

Sailfish is a bluewater species that depends on boat access, bait, current, floating structure, and offshore water conditions.

Where: Offshore bluewater, Weed lines

Gear: Heavy offshore trolling gear., Trolling skirts

SaltwaterOffshore bluewaterWeed linesColor changes

Gear: Heavy offshore trolling gear.

Baits/Lures: Ballyhoo, Pitch baits, Trolling skirts, Teasers

Location guidance

Offshore bluewater, Weed lines, Color changes, Bait schools near Gulf bluewater sailfish grounds, offshore rigs, weed lines and current breaks.

BoatOffshore

Run to offshore structure or bluewater signs before choosing trolling, jigging, popping, or bait tactics.

Season / conditions

Billfish are best treated with catch-and-release handling practices; check current rules before harvest.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Mahi Mahi

Coryphaena hippurus

Mahi Mahi is a bluewater species that depends on boat access, bait, current, floating structure, and offshore water conditions.

Where: Weed lines, Floating debris

Gear: Heavy offshore spinning or trolling setup., Trolling skirts

SaltwaterWeed linesFloating debrisCurrent edges

Gear: Heavy offshore spinning or trolling setup.

Baits/Lures: Ballyhoo, Pitch baits, Trolling skirts, Feathers

Location guidance

Weed lines, Floating debris, Current edges, Offshore structure near Gulf bluewater mahi mahi grounds, offshore rigs, weed lines and current breaks.

BoatOffshore

Run to offshore structure or bluewater signs before choosing trolling, jigging, popping, or bait tactics.

Season / conditions

Look for current, baitfish, birds, weed lines, color changes, or floating structure.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Wahoo

Acanthocybium solandri

Wahoo is a bluewater species that depends on boat access, bait, current, floating structure, and offshore water conditions.

Where: Offshore rigs, Weed lines

Gear: Heavy offshore spinning or trolling setup., High-speed trolling lures

SaltwaterOffshore rigsWeed linesColor changes

Gear: Heavy offshore spinning or trolling setup.

Baits/Lures: Rigged ballyhoo, High-speed trolling lures, Diving plugs

Location guidance

Offshore rigs, Weed lines, Color changes, Deepwater current edges near Gulf bluewater wahoo grounds, offshore rigs, weed lines and current breaks.

BoatOffshore

Run to offshore structure or bluewater signs before choosing trolling, jigging, popping, or bait tactics.

Season / conditions

Look for current, baitfish, birds, weed lines, color changes, or floating structure.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Blue Marlin

Makaira nigricans

Blue Marlin is a bluewater species that depends on boat access, bait, current, floating structure, and offshore water conditions.

Where: Offshore bluewater, Weed lines

Gear: Heavy offshore trolling gear., Trolling skirts

SaltwaterOffshore bluewaterWeed linesColor changes

Gear: Heavy offshore trolling gear.

Baits/Lures: Ballyhoo, Pitch baits, Trolling skirts, Teasers

Location guidance

Offshore bluewater, Weed lines, Color changes, Bait schools near Gulf bluewater blue marlin grounds, offshore rigs, weed lines and current breaks.

BoatOffshore

Run to offshore structure or bluewater signs before choosing trolling, jigging, popping, or bait tactics.

Season / conditions

Billfish are best treated with catch-and-release handling practices; check current rules before harvest.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

Gulf Flounder

Paralichthys albigutta

A bottom-oriented flatfish that ambushes bait near drains, passes, channel edges, sandy or muddy drop-offs, grass edges, and lights.

Where: Marsh drains, Sandy drop-offs

Gear: Abu Garcia Max Pro Spinning Combo, Reaction Tackle Fluorocarbon Leaders

SaltwaterMarsh drainsSandy drop-offsChannel edges

Gear: Medium-light or medium inshore spinning setup.

Baits/Lures: Live mud minnows, Shrimp, Soft plastics on jigheads, Bucktail jigs

Location guidance

Marsh drains, Sandy drop-offs, Channel edges, Grass edges near Galveston channels, Port Aransas passes, Sabine marsh drains.

ShorePierBoatKayak

Drag or hop baits along bottom near drains, channel lips, sandy edges, and pier lights.

Season / conditions

Slow bottom presentations and moving water are key; check current TPWD rules before keeping fish.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup

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Rock Hind

Epinephelus adscensionis

Rock Hind is a structure-oriented grouper found around offshore reefs, rock piles, wrecks, rigs, and hard bottom.

Where: Rock Hind reef structure, Rigs

Gear: Medium-heavy to heavy offshore bottom fishing setup., Vertical jigs

SaltwaterRock Hind reef structureRigsWrecks

Gear: Medium-heavy to heavy offshore bottom fishing setup.

Baits/Lures: Live bait, Cut bait, Vertical jigs, Heavy bottom rigs

Location guidance

Rock Hind reef structure, Rigs, Wrecks, Hard bottom near Gulf rock hind structure, offshore rigs, wrecks and reefs.

BoatOffshore

Hold bottom near hard structure, rig legs, wrecks, ledges, and bait marks.

Season / conditions

Bottom fish around hard structure; verify current seasons and limits before harvest.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD

Recommended Setup