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Get ready to chase the Texas inshore trifecta with Captain Michael Fletcher of Nauti Hookers Guide Service. This half-day trip in Rockport's productive waters puts you on the trail of redfish, black drum, and speckled trout – the holy grail for coastal anglers. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, Capt. Mike's got the local know-how to put you on fish. No need to lug your gear; we've got top-notch rods, reels, and tackle waiting for you. Just bring your game face (and don't forget the sunscreen).
Rockport's back bays and nearshore waters are a playground for some of Texas' most sought-after gamefish. We'll cruise the flats, hit productive oyster reefs, and maybe even sneak up on some tailing reds in the shallows. Capt. Mike's years of experience mean you're not just fishing – you're getting a master class in reading the water, spotting fish, and presenting your bait just right. The beauty of inshore fishing is the variety; one minute you might be sight-casting to a cruising redfish, the next you're working a deep hole for big black drum.
We'll mix it up depending on what the fish are biting. Some days, it's all about that slow-rolled soft plastic for specks. Other times, we might chunk cut bait for drum or sling topwaters for aggressive reds. Capt. Mike's boat is rigged with everything from light spinning gear to medium-heavy baitcasters, so we can match the hatch and the technique to what's working. Don't sweat it if you're new to these methods – by the end of the trip, you'll be working a popping cork like a pro or feeling the subtle take of a trout on the drop.
Redfish: The bulldogs of the flats, these copper-colored brutes are what Gulf Coast dreams are made of. They'll test your drag and your nerves, especially when they're tailing in skinny water. Reds in Rockport can range from rat reds under 20 inches to bull reds over 40 inches. Fall is prime time when they school up, but you can catch them year-round.
Black Drum: Often overshadowed by their redfish cousins, black drum are hard-fighting and great eating (when they're not too big). These bottom-feeders love structure and will inhale a well-presented crab or shrimp bait. The "puppy" drum (under 30 inches) are perfect for the dinner table, while the big ones – we're talking 40+ pounds – are catch-and-release trophies that'll make your arms burn.
Speckled Trout: AKA spotted seatrout, these are the finesse targets of the inshore slam. They've got soft mouths and a knack for throwing hooks, so landing a big one is a real accomplishment. Specks hang around grass beds and drop-offs, and they're suckers for a well-worked soft plastic. The gator trout (over 25 inches) are the holy grail, but even the schoolie-sized fish are a blast on light tackle.
Rockport's not just a fishing destination; it's a slice of coastal paradise. The calm waters make for a comfortable trip, even if you're prone to seasickness. And the scenery? Between the birds working bait schools and the chance to spot dolphins, it's like a nature tour with the added bonus of rod-bending action. Plus, with Capt. Mike at the helm, you're tapping into decades of local knowledge. He knows where the fish are holding, what they're eating, and how to put you on them consistently.
Look, the fish are biting, and Capt. Mike's calendar fills up fast. This half-day trip is perfect for squeezing in some quality fishing time without eating up your whole vacation. Whether you're looking to put some fillets in the cooler or just want the thrill of battling big reds, black drum, and specks, Nauti Hookers Guide Service has got you covered. Remember, the deposit's non-refundable, so when you book, you're locking in your shot at Rockport's inshore slam. Don't let the big ones get away – grab your spot on the boat and get ready for some reel action in the Coastal Bend!
Black drum are the heavyweights of the drum family, reaching up to 90 pounds. You'll find them lurking around oyster beds and mudflats in 1-5 feet of water. They use those powerful jaws to crush shellfish, so crab or shrimp make great bait. Spring is prime time as they school up to spawn. The smaller ones under 15 pounds taste best - the big ones get tough and stringy. Black drum put up a good fight, especially the big boys. They make a distinctive croaking sound, so listen for that drumming noise. Here's a local trick: fish the falling tide when they're feeding heavily in the shallows. Toss out a peeled shrimp on a circle hook and hold on tight!

Redfish, or red drum, are the rockstars of Texas inshore fishing. You'll spot 'em by that trademark black dot near the tail. They love super shallow water - sometimes with their backs out of the water! Look for them around oyster reefs, grass flats, and marshy edges in 1-4 feet. Fall is prime time when big schools cruise the flats. Reds put up a great fight, often making long runs and bulldogging near the boat. They're also delicious, with a mild, sweet flavor. These fish will eat just about anything, but they go crazy for a gold spoon or topwater lure walked across the surface. Here's a local secret: sight-cast to them on calm mornings when you can see their wakes in the shallows. It's a rush!

Sea trout, or speckled trout, are a staple catch in Rockport. These silvery fish with dark spots usually run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds. You'll find them hanging around grass flats and shallow bays, especially at night. They're ambush predators, so look for them near drop-offs or structure. Fall and spring are peak seasons as they follow bait migrations. Trout are fun to catch on light tackle and make excellent table fare with their mild, flaky white meat. They're not the strongest fighters, but they make up for it with their willingness to hit lures. Pro tip: use a slow retrieve with soft plastics, mimicking an injured baitfish. The trout can't resist!
