Expert Wade Fishing in Rockport, TX | Goin Coastal

Published Date: July 17, 2025
Fishing

Rockport
$600 price range

Summary

Ready for some real Texas wading action? Join us for an 8-hour trip chasing big Speckled Trout in Rockport's shallow waters. We're all about catch-and-release, keeping those trophy fish swimming. If you're up for it, we'll mix things up by targeting Reds and Flounder too. This isn't your average boat fishing - we're talking artificial lures and getting right in there with the fish. It's a challenge, but that's what makes it fun. Bring your own gear and waders, and we'll put you on the fish. Got a big group? No problem, just give us a call and we'll sort you out. Whether you're a seasoned pro or looking to step up your game, our guides know these waters inside and out. We'll have you casting like a local in no time. So grab your rod, pull on those waders, and let's hit the flats for some serious Texas fishing.

Expert Wade Fishing in Rockport, TX | Goin Coastal

Wading for Whoppers

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Reds and trout!

Fishing for Redfish around texas

Rockport's Premier Wade Fishing Experience

Get ready to feel the thrill of stalking big trout in the shallow waters of Rockport, Texas. Our 8-hour wade fishing trip puts you right in the action, targeting trophy-sized speckled trout, redfish, and flounder. With Goin Coastal Guide Service, you'll be fishing shoulder-to-shoulder with experienced local guides who know every sandbar and grass flat like the back of their hand. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to wade fishing, we'll tailor the day to your skill level and make sure you're in prime position to hook into some serious fish.

Trip Overview

Kick off your day early as we load up the boat and head out to some of Rockport's most productive fishing spots. We'll be focusing on wade fishing, which means you'll be stepping off the boat and into the water, giving you the ultimate hands-on fishing experience. Our guides are all about conservation, so we practice catch-and-release for those big trout, ensuring the fishery stays healthy for years to come. Don't worry though – if you're looking to take home dinner, we can target some slot reds or flounder too. This trip is all about putting your skills to the test with artificial lures, so leave the live bait at home and get ready for some heart-pounding strikes.

We can take up to two anglers per trip, but if you've got a bigger crew, just give us a call. We're happy to coordinate multiple boats to get everyone out on the water. Remember to pack your waders, rods, and reels – this is a hands-on, BYO gear kind of trip that lets you use the equipment you're most comfortable with.

What to Expect on the Water

Wade fishing in Rockport is like stepping into a whole new world. You'll be quietly moving through waist-deep water, feeling the soft sand or firm mud beneath your feet as you cast your lures. Our guides will show you how to read the water, looking for signs of bait activity, slicks, or birds working the surface. We'll teach you the art of "walking the dog" with topwater lures, how to work a soft plastic through the grass, and when to switch up your retrieves to entice those big trout.

Expect to cover a good bit of ground as we move from spot to spot, following the tide and the fish. The beauty of wade fishing is the stealth factor – we can sneak up on fish that boats might spook. And there's nothing quite like feeling that thump on your rod when a big trout slams your lure just feet away from where you're standing.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Our clients rave about the personal attention and expert knowledge they get on our wade fishing trips. Here's what some of them have had to say:

"Best day of fishing I've ever had. The guide put us right on top of the fish and taught me more about reading the water in one day than I'd learned in years." - Mike S.

"I was hesitant about wade fishing, but now I'm hooked. The thrill of catching a 28-inch trout while standing in the same water is unbeatable." - Sarah T.

"These guys know their stuff. We caught fish all day and released some real monsters. Can't wait to come back next season!" - John D.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Speckled Trout: The crown jewel of Rockport's inshore fishing, speckled trout (or specs) are the main target on our wade fishing trips. These fish can grow to over 30 inches and put up a fantastic fight on light tackle. They love to ambush bait in shallow water, making them perfect for wade fishing. Spring and fall are prime times for big trout, but we catch them year-round. There's nothing quite like the explosion of a big trout on a topwater lure at dawn.

Redfish: Also known as red drum, these copper-colored bruisers are a staple of Texas inshore fishing. Redfish love to cruise the shallows, often with their backs out of the water as they hunt for crabs and shrimp. We target reds up to 28 inches (the upper slot limit) for those who want to take home a fish for dinner. Sight-casting to tailing reds is one of the most exciting experiences in wade fishing.

Southern Flounder: These flat ambush predators are masters of camouflage and a prized catch for both their fight and their table fare. Flounder fishing requires a different technique – we'll show you how to work a jig slowly along the bottom to entice a bite. Fall is the best time for flounder as they start their migration to the Gulf, but we catch them throughout the year in Rockport's bays.

Black Drum: While not as glamorous as their redfish cousins, black drum can grow to enormous sizes and provide a great battle on light tackle. These bottom-feeders are often found in the same areas as reds and can be a fun surprise when targeting other species. They're also excellent eating when caught in the slot size.

Tripletail: One of the more unusual species we encounter, tripletail are structure-oriented fish that often float near the surface mimicking debris. While not a primary target for wade fishing, we sometimes spot them while moving between locations. They're a blast to catch and make for some of the best fish tacos you'll ever have.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're ready to experience some of the best wade fishing Texas has to offer, it's time to lock in your date with Goin Coastal Guide Service. Our 8-hour trips give you plenty of time to work different spots and techniques, maximizing your chances for that fish of a lifetime. Remember, we're all about conservation, so come prepared to snap some quick photos and release those trophies to fight another day.

Don't forget to pack sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a hat – the Texas sun can be intense out on the flats. We'll provide the local knowledge, the boat ride to the hot spots, and a day full of fishing memories. All you need to bring is your gear and a willingness to get your feet wet. So what are you waiting for? The trout are calling, and Rockport's waters are ready. Book your wade fishing adventure today and get ready to go coastal!

Learn more about the animals

Black Drum

Black Drum are the heavyweight champions of the drum family, often tipping the scales at 30 pounds or more. These bruisers love hanging around oyster beds and other structure in brackish waters. You'll know them by their distinct "croaking" sound and those whisker-like barbels under their chin. Spring's the hot time to target them, when they school up to spawn. Anglers get a kick out of their powerful fights and the challenge of tempting these bottom-feeders. Here's a local tip: if you're after table fare, stick to smaller drum under 15 pounds – the big ones can be tough and not as tasty. When fishing for Black Drum, try using fresh crab or shrimp on a bottom rig. These fish have a great sense of smell, so don't be afraid to let your bait sit and marinate a bit.

Redfish

Redfish, or Red Drum, are the rockstars of Texas flats fishing. These copper-colored beauties usually range from 20 to 30 inches, with bigger "bull reds" cruising offshore. Look for them tailing in shallow water, often so shallow their backs are out of the water. Fall is prime time when they school up to spawn. Anglers love reds for their hard-fighting nature and the sight-fishing opportunities they provide. When targeting redfish, try working a gold spoon or soft plastic along grass lines or oyster reefs. Here's a local tip: on calm days, scan the flats for "nervous water" or even fins sticking out – that's often a dead giveaway for feeding reds. And don't forget, these fish have excellent eyesight, so a stealthy approach is key to success.

Sea Trout

Sea Trout, or Speckled Trout as we call 'em here, are a favorite target for many Rockport anglers. These sleek predators usually run 14 to 24 inches, with a silver sheen and distinctive spots. You'll find them prowling grass flats and shallow bays, especially at night. They're most active in spring and fall when water temps are just right. Trout are prized for their light, flaky meat and the exciting topwater strikes they provide. When you're after specs, try working a topwater plug early in the morning or late evening – that surface commotion drives them wild. A local secret: on calm days, look for subtle "nervous water" that might indicate a school of trout feeding just below the surface. Remember, these fish have soft mouths, so set the hook with a smooth, sideways sweep rather than a hard jerk.

Southern Flounder

Southern Flounder are masters of disguise, blending seamlessly with the sandy or muddy bottoms they call home. These flatfish typically range from 15 to 18 inches, but can grow up to a hefty 33 inches. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. They're ambush predators, lying in wait to snatch up passing prey. Fall is prime time for flounder fishing as they migrate to spawn. Anglers love targeting them for their tasty white meat and the challenge of hooking these crafty bottom-dwellers. When you're after flounder, try drifting or still fishing near structure using live bait or artificial lures. A local trick: use a slow, bouncing retrieve to mimic an injured baitfish. Keep your line tight – flounder are known for their light bite, so you've got to be quick on the hook set.

Tripletail

Tripletail are odd-looking fish with a knack for surprise. These stocky swimmers typically range from 2 to 13 pounds but can push 40 in rare cases. You'll often spot them floating on their sides near buoys or floating debris, mimicking leaves to ambush prey. Summer's prime time for tripletail action. Anglers love targeting them for their acrobatic fights and excellent table fare. When you're after tripletail, cruise structure slowly and keep your eyes peeled – sight fishing is the name of the game here. A local trick: once you spot one, cast well past it and slowly retrieve your bait past the fish. Tripletail can be skittish, so a stealthy approach is crucial. Live shrimp or small crabs are hard to beat for bait, but they'll hit flies and artificials too if presented right.

About the 25 ft Haynie Boat

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Mercury

Maximum Cruising Speed: 50

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 250

Ready for some serious wade fishing action in Rockport? We've got just the trip for you! Grab your gear and join us for an 8-hour adventure targeting big Speckled Trout. We're all about catch-and-release, so you can feel good about preserving the local fishery. If you're in the mood for some variety, we'll also hunt for Reds and Flounder. This isn't your average fishing trip - we're talking artificial wade fishing, where you'll really get to show off your skills. Don't forget to pack your wading gear, rods, and reels. We're flexible too - if you've got a larger group, just give us a shout and we'll make it happen. So what are you waiting for? Get in touch and let's hit the water for some top-notch Texas fishing!

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