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Caught a Trophy Redfish Inshore in Port Mansfield
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 gamefish. - They can be identified by distinctive eyespots near the tail. - These fish have red-colored backs that fade to white bellies.
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 offers premier redfish fishing charters in Port Mansfield, TX this Wednesday May. Our half-day fishing charter combines wade fishing in the shallow flats with trolling techniques to target trophy redfish and other inshore species. Port Mansfield's protected waters provide ideal conditions for light tackle fishing, with spring offering some of the best redfish action of the year. From the backcountry flats to nearshore waters, we'll put you on the fish using live bait and proven local techniques. Whether you're targeting slot redfish or bull reds, our experienced guide service ensures an exciting day on the water with all gear and expertise included.
Fishing Charter with Captain Augustin Perez – Rates & Booking
Captain Augustin Perez of Reel Action Charter Services on Wednesday May offers half-day fishing charters targeting redfish and inshore species in Port Mansfield's productive waters. Our trips include all tackle, bait, and local expertise with flexible departure times to match the best fishing conditions. Licensed and experienced, Captain Perez specializes in wade fishing the shallow flats and trolling techniques that consistently produce results. Book online or call for current rates and availability—we'll handle the details while you focus on the fishing.
Highlights of Reel Action Charter Services
Port Mansfield's unique geography creates perfect redfish habitat, from shallow grass flats to deeper channels where these copper-colored fighters thrive. Our approach combines wade fishing in 1-4 feet of water with strategic trolling to cover more ground and locate active schools. Spring conditions bring excellent water clarity and comfortable temperatures, making it an ideal time for sight fishing and light tackle action.
Recent trips have produced quality catches including 23-inch redfish and bonus species like sandbar sharks. The variety keeps every trip exciting, with opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers to test their skills against these powerful inshore gamefish.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish in Port Mansfield waters are known for their aggressive strikes and bulldogging fights, especially in the shallow flats where they feed on crabs, shrimp, and baitfish. These copper-backed drums use their keen sense of smell to locate prey, making live bait and scented artificials particularly effective. Spring months offer prime conditions as redfish move into the shallows to feed, with morning and evening periods producing the most consistent action.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Our half-day charters accommodate up to 4 anglers and include all necessary tackle, bait, and safety equipment. We'll start early to take advantage of prime feeding times, using a combination of wade fishing and boat-based techniques depending on conditions and fish location. Captain Perez provides instruction for all skill levels, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to experience the thrill of hooking into a Port Mansfield redfish.
Fishing in South Padre Island: Redfish
The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. This iconic gamefish is easily recognized by its copper-red back that fades to a silvery-white belly and distinctive black eyespots near the tail. In Port Mansfield waters this May, redfish are particularly active in the shallow flats and backcountry areas where they feed aggressively.
Redfish Overview
Redfish are among the most sought-after inshore gamefish along the Gulf Coast, prized for their powerful fights and excellent table fare. These drum family members can live over 40 years and are known for their ability to thrive in both shallow flats and deeper nearshore waters, making them accessible to anglers using various techniques.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
Redfish prefer shallow coastal waters ranging from 1 to 4 feet deep, including grass flats, oyster reefs, and backcountry marshes. Around Port Mansfield, they're commonly found in the Laguna Madre system, where the shallow, clear waters provide ideal feeding and nursery habitat. They also venture into nearshore Gulf waters, particularly larger bull redfish.
Redfish Size and Weight
Redfish typically range from 30 to 61 inches in length and weigh between 10 to 45 pounds at maturity. Slot-size fish (20-28 inches in Texas) are most commonly targeted by anglers, while oversized bull redfish exceeding 40 inches provide trophy opportunities and must be released to preserve the breeding population.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
These opportunistic feeders consume crabs, shrimp, mullet, and various baitfish. Redfish use their excellent sense of smell and lateral line system to locate prey, often feeding with their heads down and tails up in shallow water. They're most active during dawn and dusk periods, though they can be caught throughout the day in favorable conditions.
Redfish Spawning Season
Redfish spawn in nearshore Gulf waters from late summer through fall, with peak activity occurring when water temperatures range from 70-80°F. During spawning season, large schools of bull redfish gather in deeper waters, creating exciting fishing opportunities for anglers targeting these powerful fish.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Effective techniques include wade fishing with live shrimp or soft plastics, sight casting to tailing fish, and using topwater lures during low-light periods. In May around Port Mansfield, anglers find success using gold spoons, soft plastic baits rigged weedless, and live croaker or mullet. Trolling with spoons or diving plugs covers water efficiently when fish are scattered.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offer excellent eating with firm, white meat and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. The flesh is versatile for grilling, blackening, or frying, and provides high-quality protein with beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Slot-size fish typically offer the best table fare, while larger specimens are often released for conservation.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish?
A: Live shrimp, croaker, and mullet are top choices, along with soft plastic baits like paddle tails and scented grubs. Gold spoons and topwater plugs also produce excellent results.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Port Mansfield?
A: Focus on shallow grass flats, oyster reefs, and backcountry areas of the Laguna Madre. Look for tailing fish in 1-3 feet of water, especially during morning and evening periods.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish are excellent table fare with firm, white meat and mild flavor. Slot-size fish (20-28 inches in Texas) are ideal for eating, while oversized fish should be released.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?
A: Early morning and late afternoon provide the most consistent action. Spring and fall offer prime conditions, with May being particularly productive in Port Mansfield waters.
