Texas is a hotspot for flounder, particularly the Southern Flounder species. Flounder fishing in Texas is very popular as a result, both for sport and for food. This guide will give you everything you need to know to get started with flounder fishing. Learn the best fishing spots and techniques, as well as how to be compliant with local wildlife and conservation laws.
Why Go Flounder Fishing in Texas?
Not only can flounder fishing be fun, rewarding, and even relaxing, but it is also a healthy way to feed yourself and your family if you want to fish for more than just sport. Flounder is a fish that is low in fat and high in protein. Of course, catch-and-release is a great way to enjoy the hobby of fishing as well.
Flounder fishing is also an accessible hobby, even for beginner anglers. With a minimal investment in fishing supplies and just a basic grasp of simple techniques, you can start reeling in the big ones right away. Flounder is abundant in Texas, and the species native to the Gulf Coast will bite just about any small artificial bait.
What Month Is Best for Flounder?
Flounder season in Texas lasts from October to December, when flounder migrate from the Gulf of Mexico toward the bays and estuaries closer to the Texas coast. During this “Flounder Run,” fishers can find an abundance of flounder in some very easily accessible areas of water.
However, this migration period is important for the fish to spawn and feed, so there is a seasonal closure from November 1st to December 14th. It is illegal to harvest or keep any flounder from fisheries during this time. The closure helps ensure the preservation of the flounder population.
While the fall is the best time to catch lots of flounder, fishing season is open all year-round in Texas. It is still entirely possible to catch flounder outside of the fall run, but it may require sailing out to the deeper waters of the Gulf.
Where Is the Best Flounder Fishing in Texas?
During the fall season, flounder migrate en masse into the bays all along the Texas coast. In particular, many fishing experts consider the barrier islands in southeastern Texas to be prime flounder fishing locations.
Galveston Bay is a popular flounder fishing spot in southeast Texas. It is conveniently located near Houston and is a very large body of water that can accommodate many fishing vessels, not to mention many fish. Corpus Christi Bay is another great hotspot known for providing plenty of opportunities to catch flounder by gigging, boating, or fishing from piers.
What Are the Flounder Fishing Laws in Texas?
It can be tempting to just get out there and start reeling in all those abundant flounder. However, there are flounder regulations in Texas that you must follow for the sake of the environment and to avoid fines and other legal consequences.
Have a Valid Fishing License
You must have a Texas fishing license to legally fish in any public body of water in the state. The licensing system helps manage the number of active fishers and protects wildlife populations by mitigating overfishing. License fees are also necessary for funding conservation efforts. If you are a Texas resident, you can get a yearly all-water license that permits you to fish in freshwater and saltwater for $40.
Follow Applicable Fishing Laws
There are general-purpose regulations that apply to all forms of fishing in Texas, including limitations on fishing devices and methods. It is important to check with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to make sure your equipment is legal.
Violating state fishing laws can result in criminal misdemeanor charges. Depending on the severity of the misdemeanor, fines can range anywhere from $25 to $4,000. Multiple offenses of fishing in a private waterway can even result in a felony charge with much harsher consequences.
Abide by the Texas Flounder Limit
For the sake of conservation, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department sets a daily bag limit for catching fish as well as a minimum length for the fish you may choose to keep.
The daily bag limit for flounder in Texas is five fish per day, except during the period from November 1st to December 14th, when you may not bag any flounder whatsoever. The minimum length of a bagged flounder is 15 inches. These numbers are subject to change on a yearly basis, so always check with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department before bagging your fish.
What Is the Best Way To Catch Flounder?
There is a technique for every species of fish. Before you can explore how to fish for flounder, though, you need to have the right gear.
The best bait for catching Southern Flounder is mud minnow or other small fish like shrimp or mullet. You can buy these live specimens at most bait shops or collect your own from marshy areas all around the Texas coastal region. Small artificial bait can work well, too.
Can You Catch Flounder With a Fishfinder Rig?
Flounder are bottom-dwelling fish, so a fishfinder rig works well to hook them effectively. This setup includes a sinker, swivel, and leader to move bait freely at low depths and let the fish take the bait without sensing the weight of the sinker. If you choose to use a lure instead, consider jigging or using a paddletail lure that you can slowly roll across the water bottom.
How Do You Catch Flounder By Drifting?
When the wind is favorable, drifting can be a great technique for catching some flounder. This entails letting your boat simply drift with the current, dragging your bait or lure along the water’s floor in a very natural motion. You can efficiently cover a lot of area with this method.
Boat Stop Marina Is Your Headquarters for Flounder Fishing in Texas
Flounder fishing in Texas is even more rewarding if you have your own boat and a convenient place to dock near some of the best fishing hotspots. Secure your spot at Boat Stop Marina in Corpus Christi so you can launch directly into prime fishing waters. Enjoy amenities tailored to veteran anglers and first-time fishers alike, complete with 24/7 facility surveillance so you can focus on hauling in your next catch.
If you are exploring recreational boating as a fulfilling pastime, you have many great adventures to look forward to. However, there are also some crucial nuances to understand. One of the first misconceptions to clear up is the difference between a marina vs. a harbor. Understanding this difference will help you decide where to dock your vessel or launch it onto the water.
What Is a Marina?
A marina is a docking facility designed specifically for personal sailboats, yachts, and other recreational boats. With that in mind, many marinas have amenities that appeal to recreational skippers and sailors. These may include moorings, fuel stations, or connections for water and electricity. It is also common for local yacht clubs to have a presence on or near the marina.
Docking your boat in a marina is straightforward, but requires some considerations for safety and etiquette toward other boat-goers. Make sure you know the steps to follow and always communicate your intentions to the marina staff, anyone aboard your boat, and other nearby guests using the marina facilities.
What Is a Harbor?
A harbor is a general-purpose area designed for large-scale commercial vessels to moor or anchor. Smaller private vessels are allowed at a harbor, but accessing your boat and getting out on the water for recreational purposes may not be as seamless.
The primary purpose of a harbor is to facilitate safe anchorage, moving commercial cargo, and embarking or disembarking passengers. If other vessels have priority, it can be difficult to move your boat as you please. Harbors also tend to lack many of the amenities that marinas provide, but they can be much more affordable as a result.
Marina vs. Harbor: Which Is the Right Choice for Your Boat?
Choosing between a marina vs. a harbor is a matter of convenience and budget. If you value better dock access and amenities, such as on-site showers or restaurants, then docking at a marina may be worth it for you. If you need a more affordable way to moor your boat and are willing to share a space with commercial vessels, then a harbor can be a good alternative.
Whether you choose to use a harbor or a marina, you may find yourself using a boat ramp to launch your vessel out onto the water. It is very important to observe proper boat ramp etiquette, especially in a crowded marina or harbor. This includes launching and docking your boat quickly yet safely to make way for other vessels. It is also important to be mindful of any behavior that might harm other vessels or endanger other marina visitors.
Make the Right Decision Between a Marina Vs. Harbor
To summarize, the difference between a marina vs. harbor is that the former caters specifically toward recreational boaters while the latter is more practical for commercial vessels. When you choose to moor at Boat Stop Marina, we provide convenience, security, and a tight-knit community of fellow boating enthusiasts that a commercial-focused harbor can’t beat. Browse our exclusive amenities or contact us to learn more about our membership services.
Corpus Christi, Texas, is known around the world for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and great weather—and it’s easily one of the best destinations in the U.S. for windsurfing.
Thanks to favorable wind conditions and vast stretches of water, windsurfing in Corpus Christi attracts both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike. No matter your level of experience, Corpus Christi offers everything you need for an unforgettable time windsurfing.
This guide shares the best windsurfing spots in Corpus Christi, tips on when to go, and where to find convenient access to the water for all your windsurfing needs.
Why Corpus Christi Is a Top Windsurfing Destination
Known by many as “the surfing mecca of Texas,” Corpus Christi is home to some of the best windsurfing in the country for many reasons:
Great Location: Corpus Christi’s location on the Gulf of Mexico gives it a natural advantage for water sports like windsurfing.
Mild Weather: The windsurfing season in Corpus Christi runs for 10 months out of the year with consistent winds and mild temperatures, so it’s perfect for nearly year-round action.
Warm Waters: The warm waters and steady breezes make Corpus Christi a stable spot for both learning the ropes and perfecting your technique.
Windsurfing in Corpus Christi, Texas, is also popular due to the variety of spots that cater to different skill levels and preferences. Whether you’re after smooth, flat water to practice your tricks or more challenging conditions with larger waves, there are plenty of areas to match your style.
The Best Windsurfing Spots in Corpus Christi
While you can go just about anywhere to windsurf, these Coastal Bend spots are truly one-of-a-kind.
1. The Flats at North Padre Island
One of the most popular locations for windsurfing in the area, the Flats at North Padre Island is a vast stretch of shallow water with consistent winds that make it a top spot for windsurfers of all kinds.
The water here is super calm, so it’s a great place for beginners to get comfortable with their board and sail. For intermediate to advanced windsurfers, the flats provide plenty of space to test out new moves to level up your skills.
2. Bird Island Basin
Located within the Padre Island National Seashore, Bird Island Basin is known for its strong winds and flat water, which makes it one of the most sought-after spots for windsurfing in Texas. With some larger swells for more advanced windsurfing, it’s a perfect spot for those who feel comfortable out on the water and want to experience a bit more of a challenge.
Bird Island Basin tends to be less crowded than other parts of the island, so windsurfers here can enjoy a more peaceful and open environment.
3. Mustang Island State Park
Just a short drive from Corpus Christi, Mustang Island State Park features many different water conditions, from calm, shallow areas for people just getting their bearings to stronger winds for windsurfers with experience. Its long stretch of beach gives you plenty of space to set up and really enjoy your time on the water.
The park is also a great spot to enjoy other outdoor activities like hiking and fishing after you’ve had your fill of windsurfing.
When To Go Windsurfing in Corpus Christi
The Corpus Christi windsurfing season generally runs from March through October, with the best months being April through September. During this peak stretch, winds are steady and the weather is almost always perfect for water sports.
If you prefer hitting the waves in warmer weather, the summer months will provide top-tier windsurfing conditions, though the locations can definitely become a bit more crowded. To avoid the busy season, visit in the spring and fall when the temperatures are milder and the crowds are smaller.
Top Tips for Windsurfing in Corpus Christi
To make your windsurfing adventure in Corpus Christi as fun and smooth as possible, keep these helpful tips in mind:
1. Rent Equipment
Don’t worry about purchasing equipment right away. Many locations offer windsurfing rentals that allow you to try out the sport without committing to all the gear. Renting also gives you the chance to test different types of boards and sails to find what works best for you.
To get started with windsurfing, you’ll need a basic collection of gear:
Windsurfing board
Sail
Harness
Wet suit
If you’re unsure about what gear to get, professionals at rental shops or local windsurfing schools can help guide you in choosing the right equipment.
2. Take a Lesson
Whether you’ve never tried the sport or just want to master your technique, taking a windsurfing lesson is a wise choice. Many instructors in Corpus Christi offer private or group lessons for all skill levels. Beginner lessons typically cover things like sailing basics, safety, and techniques to help you get comfortable on the water. Plus, getting feedback from instructors is a great way to improve.
3. Watch the Weather Conditions
Before heading out, always check the wind and water conditions. Corpus Christi is known for its consistent winds, but it’s important to be aware of the current weather to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Your Access To Incredible Windsurfing in Corpus Christi!
Want to make your windsurfing experience as easy as possible? The best thing you can do is plan your trip with easy water access in mind. Located on Corpus Christi Bay, Boat Stop Marina provides direct access to the water with convenient boat ramps, plenty of parking, and seamless entry to some of the best windsurfing spots in the area. The marina is also just a short distance from Padre Island, instantly making it a no-brainer starting point if you’re heading to locations like Bird Island Basin or North Padre Island.
Ready to get out on the water? Book now to secure your spot at Boat Stop Marina and start exploring the beauty of Corpus Christi windsurfing!
Baffin Bay is a bucket-list destination for anglers chasing trophy-sized speckled trout, redfish, and flounder. But if you’re new to the area, it’s hard to know exactly where to fish in Baffin Bay for success. Unlike other bays along the Texas coast, Baffin has no direct river inflow. The bay’s clear, hypersaline waters cause unique fish behavior, with the advantages of shallow flats and submerged structures.
The best fishing spots in Baffin Bay attract locals and visitors alike no matter the time of year, especially those willing to explore.
The Ultimate Guide to Where To Fish in Baffin Bay
Whether you like drifting, wading, or kayak fishing, these Baffin Bay fishing spots should definitely be on your radar.
1. The Rocks (Serpentine & Cathead Reefs)
Baffin Bay’s famous rocks are prime for anyone targeting monster trout. These ancient serpulid worm reefs provide the perfect ambush points for monster trout. Fish here by wading or drifting with live croaker, soft plastics, or topwater lures in the morning.
Boat Stop Tip: The rocks can be tricky to maneuver. Watch your depth finder to avoid running aground.
2. The Tide Gauge Bar
Located near the mouth of Baffin Bay, the Tide Gauge Bar is a great destination if you’re looking to catch slot redfish and trout. The grass beds and sandy pockets make it a great place to throw topwaters, soft plastics, or live shrimp under a popping cork.
Boat Stop Tip: If the bite slows down, try moving just off the edge of the bar into deeper water, where fish stage throughout the day.
3. Penascal Point
One of the best fishing spots in Baffin Bay, Penascal Point is excellent for both shore-based and boat anglers. A mix of mud, shell, and sand bottom attracts trophy trout and slot reds. On windy days, fish stack up along deeper edges. Slow-sinking lures and bottom fishing with live bait are solid choices.
Boat Stop Tip: During the colder months, fish move onto mud bottoms that retain heat, which is perfect for a winter fishing trip.
4. Alazan Bay
If you’re looking for a secluded, less-pressured area, head to Alazan Bay. This westernmost section of Baffin Bay is perfect for wading and kayak anglers who enjoy shallow water, grass beds, and sand pockets. It’s also an amazing flounder spot in the fall.
Boat Stop Tip: Look for nervous baitfish or slicks on the water’s surface. These are telltale signs that predators are feeding nearby.
5. Cayo del Grullo
For those who prefer drifting over wading, Cayo del Grullo is a must-fish spot. This bay arm’s long, grassy flats attract redfish, trout, and black drum. Drift a popping cork with shrimp or work a paddle tail along the bottom for best results.
Boat Stop Tip: Fish tend to push up shallow early in the morning and move deeper as the day heats up. Adjust your strategy accordingly.
How To Find Your Own Baffin Bay Fishing Spot
If you’re feeling adventurous, these tips can guide you toward your own honey hole:
Look for Slicks: Oily patches signal feeding fish.
Watch the Birds: Diving gulls or terns mean baitfish (and hungry predators below).
Check the Wind & Tides: Some spots fish better on incoming or outgoing tides.
Explore the Shorelines: Wading mudflats and grass beds often lead to big catches.
Plan the Perfect Trip To Fish in Baffin Bay
You’ve figured out where to fish in Baffin Bay—now it’s time to start planning your trip. Whether launching from Boat Stop Marina, storing your boat at Boat Stop Storage, or staying at a nearby RV resort, you’re in prime position to hit these Baffin Bay fishing spots with ease. Ready to reel in your next big catch? Book your spot today and get on the water!
The Gulf of Mexico is a sought-after destination for boat adventures due to its dynamic sights, including Alabama and Florida’s white, sandy beaches. While boating in the Gulf of Mexico, you can visit the five states that border it, as well as Cuba and parts of Mexico. However, there are hazards to watch out for if you are boating in the Gulf. The weather can change rapidly, and the further you travel into the Gulf, the more oil rigs you will encounter. Let’s dive in to see what size boat for the Gulf of Mexico is best.
How Big of a Boat Do You Need to Travel Across the Ocean?
The best boat for the Gulf of Mexico will be at least 30 to 40 feet long to travel across the ocean in safety and comfort.
Comfort
The larger the boat, the more room there is to move around, stretch your legs, and rest. A larger boat also allows for more people to be on board comfortably.
Seaworthiness
The weather on the ocean is highly unpredictable, so you need a boat big enough to withstand the storms. A canoe-style stern on a boat is also a good idea because the waves will have less impact.
What Size Boat is Good for the Bay?
For Bay boating, a 20- to 30-foot-long boat should be adequate for your needs. You want the boat to be big enough to handle the choppy, rough waters of the Bay. It should also be versatile and maneuverable to help you avoid obstacles in more crowded or busy areas.
You will want to check the weather multiple times before you leave the dock. Also, check the tide times so you are not going out during low tide. This can help prevent injury to sea creatures and vegetation that are vulnerable during that time. In addition, it will help you avoid running aground.
Dress in layers. Even if it is warm on land, the wind picks up out at sea. Layers can also help protect you from the sun.
Ensure you have a boat safety kit, a first-aid kit, and enough provisions for the journey. You do not know if you will have trouble along the way, so you should pack double the amount you think you will need.
For Gulf of Mexico boating, it is also essential that your boat has the proper safety gear, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, a flare gun, etc.
Visit Boat Stop Marina To Learn What Size Boat for the Gulf of Mexico Is Best
The best boat for the Gulf of Mexico would be a 30- to 40-foot boat that is seaworthy and comfortable. You want to ensure the boat is big enough for the crew on board and has enough storage space for provisions. If you have questions regarding what size boat for the Gulf of Mexico, contact Boat Stop Marina and we can help you get set up for your Gulf of Mexico boating experience.
Having good manners and being courteous to others is important wherever you are, especially on boat ramps, because of the many hazards launching and retrieving a boat can cause. Boat ramp etiquette is the unwritten rules and courtesies you extend to others at a boat ramp for a safe and efficient boat launch or retrieval. Now that we know the general meaning of boat ramp etiquette let’s look at some of its top essentials.
Preparing Your Boat
First things first, do not head straight to the boat ramp. Stop in the parking lot or staging area (at larger facilities) to get everything in order before starting to launch. You need to take your time to make sure you have all the essentials needed and taken care of, including
Put all safety and other gear on board, such as life jackets, a fire extinguisher, fishing equipment, food, water, etc.
Mount your navigation lights.
While prepping your boat in the staging area or parking lot, you should also ensure that the boat’s drain plug is in place and that the battery and motor are in proper working order.
Turn Off Your Headlights
Next, once you are in position, you want to ensure your headlights are off and use your parking lights to back your boat down the ramp. The ramp’s angle and water can shine your headlights into the eyes of other drivers launching or retrieving their boats, causing a hazardous situation. The boat launch area will have plenty of lighting to launch and retrieve your boat safely and efficiently, no matter the time of day.
Follow Ramp Rules and Regulations
It is important to follow the rules and regulations of the boat ramp you are using. You want to move with caution and approach the boat ramp slowly. Do not cut in line at the queue. You should wait your turn like everyone else. The boat ramp you use will have the rules and regulations posted on-site. Ensure you read them and follow them closely. Not following them could result in a hazardous situation for you and others.
Quick and Efficient Launching
When you are getting ready to launch your boat, you want to spend as much time on the water as possible. Launching your boat quickly and efficiently allows you to do this and extends that to other boaters as well.
Tips for Launching Your Boat Quickly and Efficiently
Here are some tips to help you launch your boat as efficiently as possible.
Once the boat and trailer are in the water, start the engine before releasing it from the trailer.
If you have a friend with you, have them put on their life jacket and get in the boat so they can move it as soon as it is released.
If you do not have a friend with you, attach dock lines to the boat so you can pull it to a safe area out of the way of others trying to launch.
Once the boat is released and in a safe location, get in your vehicle and park it in the parking lot so other boaters can use the ramp.
Avoid Hogging the Ramp
Some boat ramps have clear markings or dividers between ramp lanes. However, some do not have any. If you have questions about using the boat ramp, you can park in the staging area and ask another boater about the boat ramp etiquette of the boat ramp you are using.
You want to ensure you are far enough over that another boater can launch or retrieve their boat while you are using it. Also, do not park the tow vehicle in front of the ramp, whether anyone else is there or not. If another boater shows up while your vehicle is parked at the entrance of the boat ramp, this prevents them from being able to launch or retrieve their boat.
Retrieving Your Boat
When retrieving your boat, wait to pull it up to the ramp until the boat trailer is in place. Also, wait to back the trailer down the ramp until the boat is ready to be loaded.
Tips for Retrieving Your Boat
Here are several tips to make retrieving your boat as quick and efficient as possible.
The tow vehicle driver can get in line for their turn to back down the ramp.
Once the boat driver sees the trailer backing down the ramp, they can get the boat in position to load it on the trailer.
Once the boat is loaded, secure the winch and safety chain to the boat’s bow.
The tow vehicle driver can get in the vehicle and bring the boat to the staging area, where the boat driver can get out and help unload the gear onboard.
Before heading home, you will want to make sure that you connect the trailer lights and secure the tie-down straps at the staging area.
Clean, Drain, Dry
Another essential step of boat ramp etiquette is CDD (clean, drain, dry). Before leaving the staging and heading home, you want to clean any weeds from the boat or trailer, drain the blige, and drain any live or bait wells. This helps prevent invasive species like zebra muscles or milfoil from spreading. The CDD process may be posted at the boat ramp you are using. It is also important to note that this practice is a requirement in most states, and you could face fines for failing to follow regulations.
Learn Boat Ramp Etiquette from Boat Stop Marina
Boat ramp etiquette includes the common courtesies of quick and efficient launching and retrieving of your boat at all boat ramps. It also gives guidance on how to remain in the good graces of other boaters at boat ramps. By following these essentials of boat ramp etiquette, you and everyone else can have a fun and safe experience out on the water. If you have questions or need to discuss boat ramp etiquette, contact us at Boat Stop Marina. We can help you navigate the wonderful world of boating.
