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Trophy Redfish Fishing in Port Mansfield Waters
Redfish Fishing in Port Mansfield
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The Sciaenops Ocellatus belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. It typically measures between 30 and 61 inches in length, with a weight range from 10 to 45 lbs. Habitat: onshore, flats, backcountry, nearshore. - Redfish are also known as Red Drum and are prized game fish. - They can be identified by distinctive eyespots near the tail. - These fish have a red-colored back that fades to a white belly.
Fishing Charter by Captain Augustin Perez in August
Meet your Captain Augustin Perez
- Top-rated Fishing Charters in South Padre Island
Summary
Captain Augustin Perez of Reel Action Charter Services on Tuesday July delivered an action-packed fishing charter in Port Mansfield's prime inshore waters. Despite early morning rain, the crew landed impressive redfish using a mix of trolling, bottom fishing, and live bait techniques. Port Mansfield's shallow flats and nearshore structure provide world-class redfish habitat year-round, with summer months offering particularly hot action. Our local knowledge and proven techniques put anglers on trophy-sized reds that fight hard in these Texas Gulf Coast waters. Whether you're targeting the flats or working deeper structure, we tailor each trip to current conditions and what's biting best.
Fishing Charter with Captain Augustin Perez – Rates & Booking
Captain Augustin Perez of Reel Action Charter Services on Tuesday July guides anglers through Port Mansfield's most productive redfish waters. Our full-day charters include all tackle, bait, and local expertise needed to target these hard-fighting drum. Licensed and experienced, Captain Augustin knows exactly where redfish feed throughout the seasons, from shallow grass flats to nearshore structure. Trips accommodate up to 6 anglers with flexible departure times. Book online or call for current rates and availability—we're ready to put you on the fish.
Highlights of Reel Action Charter Services
Port Mansfield offers some of Texas's most consistent redfish action, with our charters targeting prime feeding areas based on tides, weather, and seasonal patterns. We employ multiple techniques including live bait fishing around structure, sight casting on shallow flats, and bottom fishing near drop-offs. The variety keeps things exciting while maximizing your chances at trophy reds. Our local knowledge spans decades of fishing these waters, ensuring you're always fishing the most productive spots.
Summer brings excellent redfish opportunities as these drum move through Port Mansfield's extensive flat system. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best action, though overcast days like our recent trip can produce all-day fishing. We provide all necessary gear and adjust techniques based on conditions—from light tackle sight fishing to heavier setups for deeper water.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish thrive in Port Mansfield's diverse habitat, from shallow grass flats to deeper nearshore waters. These copper-colored drum feed aggressively on shrimp, crabs, and baitfish, making them ideal targets for multiple fishing techniques. Summer months see redfish schooling in predictable patterns, often feeding in water just 2-4 feet deep where their distinctive tails and backs become visible to experienced guides. The fight these fish provide is legendary—strong initial runs followed by bulldogging battles that test both angler skill and tackle.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Our Port Mansfield fishing charters launch from convenient marina facilities with ample parking and easy boat access. We provide all rods, reels, tackle, and bait needed for successful redfish fishing. Trips typically run 6-8 hours depending on conditions and angler preferences. Bring sun protection, snacks, and drinks—we handle everything else. Our boats are equipped with safety gear, fish cleaning stations, and comfortable seating for up to 6 anglers. Captain Augustin's local knowledge ensures we're always fishing the most productive water for current conditions.
Fishing in South Padre Island: Redfish
Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, are premier game fish belonging to the family Sciaenidae and order Perciformes. These distinctive copper-colored fish are easily identified by their characteristic eyespots near the tail and reddish back that fades to white on the belly. In Port Mansfield waters this July, redfish provide some of the most exciting inshore fishing opportunities along the Texas Gulf Coast.
Redfish Overview
Red drum are highly sought-after sport fish known for their aggressive feeding behavior and powerful fighting ability. They inhabit coastal waters from Massachusetts to northern Mexico, with the Texas coast supporting some of the healthiest populations. Anglers prize redfish for both their sporting qualities and excellent table fare, making them a cornerstone species for Gulf Coast fishing charters.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
These adaptable fish thrive in shallow coastal waters, grass flats, oyster reefs, and nearshore structure. Port Mansfield's extensive flat system provides ideal redfish habitat, with water depths ranging from just inches to 10 feet. They prefer areas with good water circulation and abundant forage, often feeding in the same areas where shrimp, crabs, and small baitfish concentrate.
Redfish Size and Weight
Adult redfish typically range from 30 to 61 inches in length, weighing between 10 and 45 pounds. Slot-sized fish (20-28 inches) are most commonly targeted by anglers, while larger bull reds exceeding 40 inches provide trophy opportunities. The largest specimens can exceed 50 pounds and live for several decades.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Red drum are opportunistic feeders that consume shrimp, crabs, mullet, pinfish, and other small fish. They often feed by rooting through soft bottom sediments, creating distinctive mud trails visible to experienced guides. Peak feeding occurs during moving tides, particularly early morning and late afternoon when baitfish are most active.
Redfish Spawning Season
Spawning occurs in nearshore waters from late summer through fall, typically when water temperatures range from 70-80°F. During this period, large schools of mature fish gather in deeper water, creating excellent fishing opportunities for anglers targeting trophy-sized specimens.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Successful redfish techniques include live bait fishing with shrimp or mullet, artificial lures like spoons and soft plastics, and sight casting to tailing fish on shallow flats. In July around Port Mansfield, anglers find success using live shrimp under popping corks near grass beds and oyster bars, while topwater lures produce explosive strikes during low-light periods.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offer excellent eating with firm, white meat and mild flavor. The flesh is lean and flakes easily when cooked, making it perfect for grilling, blackening, or frying. Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, redfish provide healthy dining options with relatively low mercury levels compared to larger offshore species.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish?
A: Live shrimp and cut mullet are top choices, though redfish also respond well to live pinfish, crabs, and artificial lures like gold spoons and soft plastic baits.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Port Mansfield?
A: Look for redfish around shallow grass flats, oyster reefs, drop-offs, and areas with moving water. The Laguna Madre system offers excellent year-round opportunities.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish have excellent flavor with firm, white meat that's perfect for various cooking methods. They're considered one of the best eating fish in Gulf waters.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?
A: Early morning and late afternoon during moving tides produce the best action, though redfish can be caught throughout the day, especially during overcast conditions.
