Medium spinning rod
RodEasy-casting setup for coastal structure, flats, and live bait rigs.
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First Cast species profile
Pompano
Trachinotus carolinus
A compact surf and sandy-trough fish that rewards clean water, moving tides, and small bottom presentations.
Bite estimate
Reading conditions for your fishing location…
Movement & conditions
Near San Antonio, TX · change location
Movement modelling for Pompano is on the map and the conditions screen, which cover this species from its own habitat and seasonal profile. Open the map
Predicted zones combine environmental and historical fisheries data. They do not represent live fish locations.
Movement and migration guide
No movement profile is matched to Pompano yet — this searches the Field Guide by name.
Where to fish
Use tide movement, bait presence, wind direction, and clean water to choose between Surf guts, Sandy troughs, Pass edges.
Surf gutsSandy troughsPass edgesGrass flatsJettiesPasses
Regulation card
Needs review: check current TPWD Outdoor Annual before harvesting.
Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.
Source: TPWD Outdoor Annual 2025-2026What to throw
Fish bites, Shrimp, Sand flea imitation and Pompano rig around Surf guts, Sandy troughs, Pass edges.
SaltwaterSurf gutsSandy troughsPass edges
Recommended setup
7' medium spinning setup with 10-20 lb braid and fluorocarbon leader; size up for surf, jetties, or heavy current.
Pompano rig
RigMatches the primary presentation anglers use for this species.
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Fish bites
BaitKeeps the offering close to what fish are already feeding on.
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