Bay Fishing in Corpus Christi & Portland, TX: Your FAQ Guide

Planning a fishing adventure in the beautiful Coastal Bend of Texas? Corpus Christi and Portland offer fantastic opportunities for bay fishing trips, guided excursions, and full-day inshore adventures. Here's a comprehensive FAQ to help you prepare for your trip:

Experience inshore fishing like never before with two boats and two expert captains guiding you through the best spots on the water. FishSwirl Guide Services offers a unique multi-boat fishing trip designed for groups up to eight guests, giving you twice the opportunity to catch trophy fish and make unforgettable memories near Corpus Christi.


 Call (361) 774-2114 now to secure your inshore fishing trip.

General Fishing Trip FAQs


Q: Do I need a fishing license? Yes, all Texas residents and visitors 17 years of age and older are required to possess a Texas fishing license with a saltwater endorsement when fishing in public waters. You can purchase these online through Texas Parks & Wildlife or at local bait and tackle shops.

Q: What types of fish can I expect to catch in the bays of Corpus Christi and Portland? The inshore waters are teeming with various species. Common targets include:

  • Redfish (Red Drum, Channel Bass, Spottail Bass)
  • Speckled Trout (Spotted Sea Trout)
  • Black Drum
  • Flounder
  • Sheepshead


Q: When is the best time to go bay fishing? Fishing is generally good year-round in Corpus Christi.

  • Spring and Summer: Optimal for snapper, grouper, and kingfish offshore, and excellent for speckled trout and redfish inshore as they become more active for spawning. Night fishing can also be productive in summer.
  • Fall and Winter: Offers great opportunities for tarpon, redfish, sheepshead, and speckled trout. Flounder are also more active during their fall migration.


Q: What should I bring on my fishing trip? Most guides provide essential gear like rods, reels, and bait. However, it's always recommended to bring:

  • Texas fishing license with saltwater endorsement.
  • Weather-appropriate clothing: Layers are always a good idea, as temperatures can change. Light-colored clothing, a windbreaker, and rain gear are recommended.
  • Sun protection: Sunscreen (UVA and UVB), lip balm with SPF, a wide-brimmed hat, and polarized sunglasses are crucial.
  • Non-skid, closed-toe shoes: Sneakers or boat shoes are ideal. Avoid flip-flops.
  • Food and drinks: Many charters allow you to bring your own snacks and beverages. Check with your specific guide.
  • Cooler with ice: For transporting your cleaned fish home.
  • Camera or smartphone: To capture your catches and memories.
  • Small backpack or waterproof bag: For personal items, electronics, and documents.
  • Seasickness medication: If you are prone to motion sickness, take it a couple of hours before your trip.
  • Bug spray: Especially during warmer months.
  • Small first-aid kit and hand sanitizer.
  • Hand towel: Fishing can get messy!


Q: Is tipping customary for fishing guides? Yes, it is customary to tip your fishing guide around 20% of the trip total, especially if they provide excellent service.


Guided Fishing Trips & Excursions


Q: What is a "full day inshore" fishing trip? A full-day inshore trip typically involves spending a significant portion of the day (often 6-8 hours) fishing the shallower bay systems, estuaries, and flats. Guides will focus on targeting species like redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and black drum using various techniques like wade fishing, sight casting, or drifting.

Q: How do I choose a good fishing guide in Corpus Christi or Portland, TX? When selecting a fishing guide, consider:

  • Experience and Local Knowledge: Look for guides with years of experience and extensive knowledge of the local waters, fish patterns, and best spots. Many are native to the South Texas area.
  • Reputation and Reviews: Check online reviews (e.g., Google, social media, booking platforms) and ask for recommendations.
  • Communication: A good guide will communicate clearly about what to expect, what to bring, and any specific policies.
  • Boat and Equipment: Ensure the guide has a well-maintained, appropriate boat for the type of fishing you want to do, and that they provide quality rods, reels, and tackle.
  • Safety: Prioritize guides who emphasize safety and are licensed and insured.
  • Target Species and Techniques: Discuss what you hope to catch and if the guide specializes in those species or techniques (e.g., artificial lures, live bait, wade fishing).
  • Flexibility: Some guides offer flexibility in trip duration or accommodate specific requests.
  • Cancellation Policy: Understand their policy in case of bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances.


Q: What's the difference between a "fishing excursion" and a "fishing trip"? These terms are often used interchangeably to refer to a planned outing for fishing. "Excursion" might imply a slightly more structured or organized trip, perhaps with a focus on sightseeing or specific activities beyond just catching fish, but in the context of bay fishing, they generally mean the same thing.

Q: What is a "multi-boat fishing trip"? A multi-boat fishing trip typically involves booking multiple fishing guides and their boats for a larger group. This is ideal for corporate events, large family gatherings, or groups of friends who want to fish together but need more capacity than a single boat can provide. When planning a multi-boat trip, ensure all participants have the necessary licenses and that the guides are experienced in coordinating such outings.


Specific Bay Fishing Areas and Techniques


Q: What are some popular bay fishing spots in the Corpus Christi area? The area offers numerous productive spots, including:

  • Corpus Christi Bay
  • Redfish Bay
  • Aransas Bay
  • Copano Bay
  • Laguna Madre
  • Oso Bay
  • Packery Channel
  • Nueces River
  • Areas around Mustang Island State Park and Padre Island National Seashore


Q: What fishing techniques are common in the bays?

  • Wade Fishing: Anglers wear waders and walk through shallow flats, often allowing for a stealthy approach to fish.
  • Drifting: The boat drifts with the current or wind, allowing anglers to cast over a wider area.
  • Sight Casting: Standing on a poling skiff or shallow-water boat, anglers visually spot fish in the shallows and cast with precision.
  • Using Live Bait: Live shrimp, croaker, mullet, and perch are common and highly effective.
  • Using Artificial Lures: Soft plastics, topwater lures, and various hard baits are also popular.


We hope this FAQ helps you plan a successful and enjoyable bay fishing trip in Corpus Christi and Portland, TX!