Corpus Christi is known as a fishing hot-spot on the Gulf Coast of Texas. Many experienced anglers travel from all over the world to cast a line in the Laguna Madre, Gulf of Mexico or Corpus Christi Bay. Don’t let the technical jargon and fancy equipment intimidate you – fishing for the first time is no sweat! Read on to learn more about fishing from local guide Jesse Torres.

What is considered the best time of year to fish in the Gulf Coast Capital?

The best part about living here is that the fishing is great year-round! You can chase trophy trout in the winter, but the most popular time for maximum fish is late spring to summer. Spring and summer are when the most common species (redfish, speckled trout, black drum, flounder) are abundant, and the weather is hard to beat.

 

Where is the best spot to fish in the area? Which is preferred, deep sea or surf?

I’m not sure I can narrow it down to just one area; there are so many places and options with our bay and flat system. People can choose to sight cast or fly fish in the vast area of flats we have. There are miles of beach for people to shark fish or just cast a line and see what picks it up. The best part of the Coastal Bend is that one can do it all here: bay fishing, surf fishing, and offshore.

What are the benefits of a fishing guide, and how do you choose a fishing guide?

When you hire a guide, you’re going out with someone who has years of experience and knowledge of the waters and fish patterns. Most guides are on the water multiple times a week and can ensure a good time with plenty of bent rods. Choosing a guide can be as easy as looking on social media or even stopping by a local marina and asking about their in-house guides. Some guides even have websites.

 

What should locals wear and bring with them when going fishing?

Usually, the guide provides everything, including bait and tackle, but the clients bring drinks, snacks, and sunscreen. I always recommend people wear a hat and a breathable shirt. The majority of guides will handle the fish cleaning and hand the fillets over in a bag for you to take home.

 

Where do the locals hang out and buy their bait and supplies?

One of the most popular tackle shops is Roy’s Bait and Tackle, with its vast inventory. They have equipment for inshore, offshore, and everything in between. We have multiple excellent marinas and bait shops. I prefer Fisherman’s Bait and Seafood Market for bait, and launch out of Marker 37 Marina.