Fishing Report for Aransas Pass Rockport Port Aransas Texas 01/11-01/17 Catch Redfish and More

justin coghlan
Jan 17
2 min read

The fishing action this week in Aransas Pass, Rockport, and Port Aransas, Texas, has been solid and rewarding. Anglers targeting redfish have found success using cut mullet in the deeper guts near shallow grass flats where baitfish activity is strong. Alongside redfish, speckled trout and black drum have also been biting well, making this a great time to get out on the water with Captain Justin Coghlan and Clean Fun Fishing.

Where the Fish Are Biting

The key to this week’s success has been focusing on the deeper guts adjacent to the shallow grass flats. These areas hold plenty of baitfish, which attract redfish and other species. Using cut mullet as bait has proven effective for hooking redfish, especially in spots where the water is slightly deeper but still close to the grassy edges.

Speckled trout and black drum have also been active in these zones. Trout are often found cruising the edges of the grass flats, while black drum tend to hang around structure and deeper holes nearby. Watching for signs of bait activity like jumping mullet or swirling fish can help pinpoint the best spots.

Best Techniques and Bait

Cut mullet remains the top bait choice for redfish this week. Its scent and movement in the water attract the fish effectively.
For speckled trout, live shrimp or small soft plastics fished near the grass edges work well.
Black drum respond to fresh crab or shrimp, especially when fished near oyster beds or rocky areas.
Slow, steady retrieves with occasional pauses help entice strikes, particularly in cooler water temperatures.

Captain Justin Coghlan emphasizes patience and paying attention to water conditions. Tides and wind can influence where fish gather, so adjusting your location accordingly will improve your chances.

Weather and Water Conditions

This week, water temperatures have been hovering in the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit. Clear skies and moderate winds have made for comfortable fishing days. The tides have been favorable for fishing the guts and flats during both incoming and outgoing phases, which helps concentrate baitfish and predators in predictable areas.

What Anglers Are Catching

Customers fishing with Clean Fun Fishing have reported catching:

Redfish up to 28 inches using cut mullet in the deeper guts
Speckled trout averaging 15-18 inches near grass flats
Black drum in the 1-4 pound range around oyster beds and deeper holes

These catches highlight the diversity of species available in the Aransas Pass, Rockport, and Port Aransas area this week.

Tips for Your Next Trip

Focus on the deeper guts near shallow grass flats where baitfish are active.
Use cut mullet for redfish, live shrimp or soft plastics for trout, and fresh crab or shrimp for black drum.
Pay attention to tide changes and adjust your fishing spots accordingly.
Dress in layers and bring sun protection, as Texas winter days can be cool in the morning but warm up quickly.

If you want to stay updated with detailed fishing reports and tips, consider joining Captain Justin Coghlan’s Patreon page. You’ll get exclusive content, fishing insights, and the chance to connect with a community of anglers passionate about fishing in the Texas coastal waters.

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