Expert-Guided Rockport Fishing: Full-Day Charter

Reel in the Big Ones: Full-Day Rockport Fishing

Get ready to wet a line in some of the best inshore fishing waters Texas has to offer. This full-day trip with Bills and Gills Guide Service puts you right in the heart of Rockport's legendary fishing grounds. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, you'll have a chance to tangle with hard-fighting redfish, tasty trout, and bulldozing black drum. With all the gear provided and an expert captain at the helm, you're in for a day of non-stop action on the water.

What's Biting in Rockport

Rockport's maze of bays, flats, and channels is a fish factory, and we know just where to find 'em. We'll start the day by hitting some proven hotspots, but don't worry – if the fish aren't cooperating, we've got plenty of backup plans. Your captain's been chasing these fish for years and knows how to read the water, tides, and conditions to put you on the bite. Expect to hop around to different spots throughout the day, giving you a chance to try various techniques and target different species. The beauty of Rockport fishing is the variety – one minute you might be sight-casting to tailing reds in skinny water, the next you could be working a deep channel for big trout.

Gearing Up for Success

No need to stress about bringing the right tackle – we've got you covered from stem to stern. Our boats are rigged with top-notch rods and reels suited for inshore fishing. We'll have an assortment of artificial lures on hand, but live bait is often the ticket for consistent action. Depending on the season and what's running, we might be using live shrimp, mullet, or croaker. Your guide will show you the ropes on how to work different baits and lures effectively. Don't be shy about asking questions – we're here to help you improve your skills and put more fish in the boat.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are the crown jewels of Texas inshore fishing. Reds in Rockport can range from scrappy 20-inchers to bull reds topping 40 pounds. They love to hang around oyster reefs and grass flats, often revealing their location with their distinctive tail-waving behavior. The fall "bull red run" is legendary, but you can catch quality reds year-round in Rockport.

Speckled Trout: Also known as spotted seatrout, these fish are prized for both their fight and their flavor. Trout in Rockport can grow to impressive sizes, with fish over 5 pounds not uncommon. They're ambush predators that love to hang around structure and dropoffs. Early mornings and late evenings are prime time for big specks, especially when throwing topwater lures.

Black Drum: Don't let their ugly mugs fool you – black drum are hard-fighting fish that can reach massive sizes. While the smaller "puppy drum" are excellent eating, the big ones (over 30 pounds) are best released. Drum love crustaceans, so fresh shrimp or crab chunks are top baits. Look for them around pier pilings, jetties, and deeper holes in the bays.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Rockport isn't just another fishing destination – it's a slice of coastal Texas heaven. The wildlife viewing alone is worth the trip, with dolphins, pelicans, and even whooping cranes making regular appearances. The laid-back vibe of the town is contagious, and there's nothing quite like wrapping up a day on the water with some fresh-caught seafood at a local joint. Our full-day trips give you plenty of time to soak in the scenery, learn new techniques, and most importantly, catch a mess of fish. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler or just enjoy a relaxing day on the water, Rockport delivers.

What to Expect on the Water

We'll meet up bright and early at the marina, usually around sunrise to catch that magic morning bite. After a quick safety briefing and gear check, we'll head out to our first spot. Your captain will be constantly scanning for signs of fish activity – birds working, bait flipping, or those telltale red tails waving in the shallows. We'll mix up our tactics throughout the day, from drifting flats to working structure, always adapting to where the fish are biting.

Don't forget to bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. While we're focused on fishing, there's always time to appreciate the natural beauty around us. Keep your camera handy for those Instagram-worthy fish pics and stunning coastal scenes. As the day wraps up, we'll head back to the dock with plenty of fish stories (and hopefully a good catch) to share.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to experience some of the best inshore fishing Texas has to offer, now's the time to lock in your date. Our Rockport trips fill up fast, especially during peak seasons like spring and fall. Whether you're a solo angler looking to join a group or want to book the whole boat for your crew, we've got options to fit. Remember, everything you need is included – rods, reels, bait, and a boatload of local knowledge. All you need to bring is your sense of adventure and maybe a lucky fishing hat. So what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, and there's a spot on the boat with your name on it. Let's make some memories on the water!