Texas is one of the world’s most targeted destinations for tuna fishing. It is one of the most popular fish for fishers and anglers in Texas, and you can catch tuna from the shore, a pier, or a boat. Knowing this, let’s dig into the details of tuna fishing in Texas, the best months for tuna, and how many you can keep in Texas.
When Can Yo Go Tuna Fishing in Texas?
fresh from the ocean yellow fins tuna
Tuna fishing is allowed year-round in Texas. You can even go night fishing for tuna without a problem, as tuna tend to bite well at night. Some of the best places for tuna fishing in Texas include Galveston, Corpus Christi, Port Aransas, and Corpus Christi Bay. These are just a handful of the possible locations, so choosing the right one for you is important.
Types of Tuna in Texas
There are three main types of tuna you can find in Texas, including
Yellowfin tuna
Bluefin tuna
Blackfin tuna
When tuna fishing in Texas, Yellowfin and Bluefin tuna are the most common to catch. Blackfin tuna are less common, but catching them with the correct tackle, conditions, and patience is possible.
What Month is Best for Tuna Fishing in Texas?
Peak tuna season in Texas is from July to October. The type of tuna you are looking to catch is a significant component of determining the best time of year for your fishing expedition.
Yellowfin Tuna
July to October are the best months to catch Yellowfin tuna when the water temperature is between 70 and 90 degrees. Although they may enter bays and be along the coastline, they are most often seen in the Gulf of Mexico. The worst months to fish for Yellowfin tuna are January to May, November, and December.
Bluefin Tuna
Like Yellowfin tuna, Bluefin tuna are most often caught in the spring and summer months in the Gulf of Mexico.
Blackfin Tuna
Fishing for Blackfin tuna is best from June to October when the water temperature is between 71 and 80 degrees. You can find Blackfin Tuna around the Texas coastline, near-shore reefs, floating grasses, and jetsam. The worst months to fish for Blackfin tuna are January to March, November, and December.
How Many Tuna Can You Keep in Texas?
It is important to follow any Texas regulations regarding the number and size of fish you catch, including tuna. There are also federal regulations you must be aware of.
Federally, catching, tagging, and releasing Yellowfin tuna in the Gulf of Mexico is allowed. Texas regulations state that a bag limit of three Yellowfin tuna can be kept a day and that they must be at least 27 inches long.
NOAA Fisheries states a bag limit of one Bluefin tuna a day on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. The bag limit is zero on the remaining days of the week. These limits are effective from July 1 through November 30, 2024.
Currently, there are no bag or size limits for Blackfin tuna.
Choose Boat Stop Marina for Your Tuna Fishing in Texas
When it comes to fishing, you have chosen the right place. Texas is one of the leading tuna fishing destinations in the world. It is important to remember the time of year when you want to go tuna fishing and state and federal regulations.
Boat Stop Marina can help you determine the best time of year for tuna fishing in Texas, inform you of state and federal regulations, and provide a safe, secure place to put your boat in the water.
Contact us today to get your Texas fishing trip underway.
Between Corpus Christi Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, there are more than 100 miles of beautiful beaches, ranging from calm waters to some of the most popular surfing destinations. There are jellyfish at Corpus Christi year-round. However, there are times throughout the year when jellyfish are more prominent.
Looking for Jellyfish at Corpus Christi
The rise of warmer weather brings warmer water temperatures and the beginning of jellyfish season. Jellyfish season at Corpus Christi starts in May and continues into October. It is important to be aware that jellyfish season is real so you know how to stay safe and have an enjoyable beach experience.
What Month Are Jellyfish Most Active in Texas?
Although jellyfish season extends from May to October, the peak months when jellyfish are more prominent are August and September, when the water is warmest.
Types of Jellyfish in Corpus Christi
The most common types of jellyfish found around Corpus Christi include:
Stinging Nettle jellyfish: Stinging nettle jellyfish have painful stings, but they are not generally lethal to humans.
Moon Jellyfish: The stings from moon jellyfish bring mild pain, but are generally harmless to humans.
Cabbagehead jellyfish: Stings from these jellyfish are rare and can cause skin and eye irritation. However, the toxin released by this jellyfish can also cause human cardiac problems.
Although the stings of these types of jellyfish are generally harmless, it is best to avoid contact with any kind of jellyfish.
Preparing for a Safe Beach Visit
Consider these factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable beach visit, especially during jellyfish season.
How To Identify Jellyfish Presence
Spotting jellyfish in the water can be difficult, considering they are transparent. However, there are ways to know when jellyfish are present. Seeing jellyfish washed up on shore indicates that jellyfish are still in the water.
Another indicator that jellyfish might be present is the direction of the wind. If the wind is blowing inland, jellyfish are most likely present. Also, keep a lookout for purple flags on lifeguard towers, which indicate jellyfish are there.
How To Avoid Getting Stung
Besides avoiding the water during jellyfish season, there are several steps you can take to avoid being stung by jellyfish. You can wear protective clothing, like a wet suit, while swimming, snorkeling, or diving. Also, before going to the beach, you should check the conditions of the beach you want to visit.
What To Do if Stung by a Jellyfish
If you are stung by a jellyfish, stay calm, get out of the water, and observe any signs of anaphylactic shock. Call 911 immediately if you find it hard to breathe. If no anaphylaxis is apparent, tell a lifeguard about the sting (if one is present) and rinse the area thoroughly with salt water. Do not use fresh water because this can make the sting worse.
Do not rub the area of the sting before, during, or after removing any remaining tentacles with tweezers. Then, use the hottest water you can handle to rinse the area for 20 to 45 minutes. If you go to a doctor, they may prescribe calamine lotion, antihistamines, or over-the-counter pain medications to treat the pain and itchiness of the sting.
Even With Jellyfish at Corpus Christi, the Beach Is a Great Place for Summertime Fun
Yes, there are jellyfish at Corpus Christi. Yes, you can go to the beach during jellyfish season. Do your best to avoid getting stung and have a safe and enjoyable time.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact us at Boat Stop Marina for more information about enjoying Corpus Christi.
If you want a beautiful place to sail, look no further than the Gulf of Mexico. Gulf of Mexico sailing brings views of white sand beaches and diverse ecosystems. It is accessible from five U.S. states, Cuba, and parts of Mexico. The Gulf of Mexico offers great deep-sea fishing and boating opportunities.
Gulf of Mexico Sailing: Your Questions Answered
If you plan to sail the Gulf of Mexico, you should plan your trip ahead and ensure your navigation equipment works correctly due to the hazards present. You want to ensure you have the right boat for the journey, map out how long the trip will take, know the key sailing routes, and remember tips for safe travel.
Can You Sail Across the Gulf of Mexico?
The simple answer is that you can sail across the Gulf of Mexico. Depending on where you set sail, you can travel from East to West or West to East. However, there are hazards to be aware of before setting sail.
Traveling East to West
If you are traveling East to West, common departure points include Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. If you choose to stop along the way, there are many places to visit. For example, Pensacola, Florida, offers great fishing and diving or snorkeling opportunities.
Traveling West to East
If you are traveling West to East, the waters are usually oil-patched due to off-shore drilling rigs. As you get closer to Mississippi and Alabama, the oil patches are fewer and farther between. Florida is great to visit on your travels due to the lack of offshore drilling.
Hazards of Sailing the Gulf of Mexico
Before sailing the Gulf of Mexico, be aware of two main hazards: The first is gas and oil rigs. There is an extraordinary number of these rigs throughout the Gulf of Mexico. They are usually well-lit, so you will unlikely sail into one.
The second hazard is the weather. Due to the Gulf of Mexico’s warmer climate, cyclones and hurricanes gain speed and can make the Gulf treacherous. Since the Gulf of Mexico is connected to the Atlantic Ocean, it is important to note the Atlantic Hurricane season before setting sail. Hurricane season for the Atlantic Ocean lasts from June until November.
How Big of a Boat Do You Need To Cross the Gulf of Mexico?
When deciding which size of boat you need to cross the Gulf of Mexico, there are a few things to consider. First, water conditions. Bigger boats tend to be more stable when the weather is bad, or there are waves.
Other considerations include the length of the trip and weather conditions. A 30—to 40-foot boat is suggested for long trips. This size boat will also be more stable in inclement weather.
Boat Recommendations
There are many boats to choose from for sailing the Gulf of Mexico, but here are five we highly recommend:
Grady White Fisherman 216
MasterCraft XT23
Tidewater 210 LXF
Robalo R230
Sea Hunt Gamefish 25
These boats have proven to sail well in the Gulf.
How Long Does It Take To Sail from Texas to Florida?
In good weather, it takes approximately seven to ten days to sail from Houston, Texas, to Florida at a speed of five to seven knots. However, several factors can affect the duration of the trip.
Distance
It is approximately 1,000 nautical miles from Houston to Florida, but the exact distance can vary depending on your starting point.
Weather Conditions
If the weather is good and the wind is on your side, the trip will go much smoother and faster than in unfavorable weather conditions. If adverse weather occurs during your trip, it can slow you down or even make you stop to seek shelter.
Vessel Speed
The speed at which your boat can travel plays a significant role in how quickly you reach your destination. A slower boat will take longer to get somewhere than a faster one.
Crew Experience
Experience and skill level also affect the time it takes to reach your destination. A more experienced crew will know more about handling the boat than an inexperienced crew.
How Deep Does the Gulf of Mexico Get?
The Gulf of Mexico has an average depth of approximately 5,200 feet. However, there are deeper locations, like the Sigsbee Deep, which ranges up to 14,383 feet.
Safety Tips for Sailing the Gulf of Mexico
Many safety tips for boating are common knowledge, and all should be remembered when sailing across the Gulf of Mexico. However, here are some additional safety tips specifically concerning sailing the Gulf of Mexico.
Be aware of weather patterns at all times. Check the weather and tides multiple times before leaving port. This will help you avoid running aground because of shallow water and prevent damage to sea life.
Pay attention to and remember nautical rules. Buoys and other navigational aids are there for safety purposes, for you and wildlife, so always keep a lookout and pay attention to your surroundings.
Always dress in layers even if it is warm on land. The weather can change quickly, and you want to avoid getting cold. Layering also gives added protection against the sun.
Ensure you have a first-aid kit and enough food and other supplies, including safety gear. Double the amount of food and drinks you think you will need. It is better to be prepared than not have enough.
Use common sense and safe docking habits. It is important to go at a safe speed and keep a safe distance from other vessels on the water, especially those with limited movement capabilities. Regarding safe docking habits, go slow to avoid damage or injuries to you or others.
Gulf of Mexico Sailing Is Safe and Fun With the Proper Equipment and Resources
Sailing the Gulf of Mexico can be an exhilarating experience if you plan ahead and keep a weather eye on the horizon. With the proper equipment and resources at your disposal, there is no reason to have a safe and fun trip.
If you have any questions or concerns about your Gulf of Mexico sailing expedition, contact us at Boat Stop Marina. Come dock with us to get your trip off to a great start.
Every year, over 10 million visitors make their way to Corpus Christi to explore the beautiful Gulf Coast Capital. Among those visitors are anglers from all over the world who are excited to reel in some of the abundant and diverse fish that live along the coast. With tons of convenient fishing spots, Corpus Christi is a destination for anglers of all experience levels.
If you’re headed out to fish on the Gulf Coast, we’ve put together a complete list of the best bait for fishing in Corpus Christi so you can bring home the catch of the day.
Best Bait for Fishing in Corpus Christi by Fish Type
One of the easiest ways to figure out what bait to use in Corpus Christi is to think about the type of fish you hope to catch. Using bait that has been proven effective for a certain fish will greatly increase your chances of reeling in the fish you want.
To make the process even simpler, we’ve compiled some of the most prominent fish in Corpus Christi and broken them down into 2 categories: saltwater and freshwater fish.
Saltwater Fish
Whether you choose to fish from the pier, the surf, or a charter boat, you can catch many different types of saltwater fish in the ocean around Corpus Christi.
Redfish are one of the most sought-after fish for anglers visiting the Texas Coast. To catch them, use lures such as rattling plugs or various types of fresh bait, including live shrimp or crabs, mullet, and squid.
Next up, we have the famous tuna. Prepare to journey pretty far offshore for these large fish. Local live bait works best for reeling them in, so try out squid, mackerel, anchovies, and other small fish.
You can also catch big, tasty snappers at nearly any time of the year in Corpus Christi. To attract them, you can choose from a variety of baits, including mullet, shrimp, pilchards, and even lures like swimbait.
Freshwater Fish
If saltwater isn’t your scene, you might be more interested in heading to one of the abundant freshwater locations in Corpus Christi.
Both white and largemouth bass make their home in the area, particularly in Lake Corpus Christi. To catch their attention, try using either jigs or bait fish like crawfish, minnows, and shad.
There are also three different types of catfish living in the Corpus Christi waters: blue, channel, and flathead. Most fresh-caught bait, including shad, skipjack herring, and bluegill, will work for these fish.
You can find rather large crappie in freshwater fishing spots as well. To reel them in, many anglers turn to either live minnows or, in some cases, their own handcrafted crappie jigs.
Where To Use the Best Bait for Fishing in Corpus Christi
Now, it’s time to put your knowledge about the best bait for fishing in Corpus Christi into action! The next time you visit, consider docking at Boat Stop Marina, an exclusive private marina located right in the heart of Corpus Christi.
With ultra-wide dual launch ramps and a commercial-grade fish cleaning station, our marina is a safe haven for all anglers. Contact us today to learn how a Boat Stop Marina membership can enhance your next boating adventure!
With more than 100 miles of coastline between the Gulf of Mexico and Corpus Christi Bay, there a lot of open water to explore in the Corpus Christi area. Whether you’re an experienced boater or a passenger looking to take in the beauty of the Texas Coast, you need to add these locations for sailing in Corpus Christi to the top of your bucket list right away.
Why Should You Go Sailing in Corpus Christi?
Corpus Christi is a destination for sailors throughout every season of the year. The winters are warm, and the summers are even warmer, drawing in plenty of marine life for watching or fishing. Plus, depending on where you choose to sail, you may be able to enjoy breathtaking views of the sunrise, sunset, or even the city skyline.
When you go sailing in Corpus Christi, you open yourself up to amazing experiences, including:
Dolphin-watching.
Boat racing.
Island-hopping.
Deep-sea fishing.
Sunset cruises.
Corpus Christi gives you the opportunity to explore the Gulf Coast your way. No matter what activities you choose or where you decide to set sail, you’re guaranteed to have a unique adventure that you and your loved ones will never forget.
Top 6 Destinations for Corpus Christi Sailing
The waters of Corpus Christi have something to offer for every type of sailor. From calm, protected recreational areas to slightly more challenging waters, our list presents a variety of Corpus Christi sailing destinations so you can be sure to select the right one for your trip.
1. Corpus Christi Bay
The Corpus Christi Bay is a hotspot for both leisurely cruisers and thrillseekers. With a wide expanse of open water and strong, steady winds, there’s plenty of room in the bay for casual sailors to spend the afternoon coasting around. You can take in the stunning views of the city skyline or participate in exciting activities like racing and water sports.
The Bay also hosts a variety of sailing events throughout the year. From sailing camps to scheduled races and regattas, there is plenty for sailors of all experience levels to enjoy in Corpus Christi Bay. Check out the Corpus Christi Yacht Club’s event schedule when you plan your next trip. That way, you won’t miss out on any fun activities.
2. Laguna Madre
The Laguna Madre is a safe haven of shallow water perfect for small boat sailors. These safe waters include protected areas that are delightful for paddling and windsurfing, so make sure to bring your smaller craft with you to explore the beautiful scenery up close.
One of the best parts about sailing in the Laguna Madre is the opportunity to catch a glimpse of a pod of dolphins. Bottlenose dolphins are indigenous to the area and are visible throughout the day. Whether you’re out on the water at sunrise, mid-day, or sunset, you can often see these wonderful sea creatures hanging out in their natural habitat during any season of the year.
3. Aransas Pass
Located a bit north of Corpus Christi, Aransas Pass is another excellent destination for sailing in Corpus Christi. Within the Coastal Bend, sailors can access both the Gulf of Mexico and the protected waters of the Intracoastal Waterway. This makes it a great entry point for Gulf Coast explorers.
Adventurous sailors will love navigating the various water conditions in Aransas Pass. If you’re lucky, you might also be able to catch a dolphin sighting while taking in the view of a gorgeous Gulf Coast sunset.
4. Packery Channel
You might be surprised to find a man-made waterway on our list, but Packery Channel is a great destination for Corpus Christi sailing. The Channel connects Corpus Christi Bay to the Gulf of Mexico. This gives sailors the ability to explore and navigate their way through a wide variety of coastal environments.
Since Packery Channel is only open to recreational vessels, sailors don’t have to worry about the area clogging up with commercial craft. The waters are full of wildlife, and visitors can freely use the area for everything from fishing to surfing and kiteboarding. Or, simply enjoy sailing around and soaking up some sun.
5. Oso Bay
If you’re a beginner sailor, you may want to consider checking out Oso Bay. Situated on the southern end of Corpus Christi, the Bay is a bit smaller than other waterways. It is well-protected, making it a great place to learn and test the waters.
Water conditions in Oso Bay stay relatively calm most of the time. Add the shallower waters on top of those calm conditions, and you have the perfect environment for practicing different sailing techniques. Because of this, any families looking to show their kids the ropes in a peaceful body of water will definitely want to head out to Oso Bay.
6. Padre Island National Seashore
Stretching nearly 70 miles, Padre Island National Seashore is the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world. The area is under federal protection, making it an excellent stop for boaters who want to take in the beauty of rare or endangered wildlife like the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle.
The Padre Island beaches also offer a variety of activities, including camping, horseback riding, and ranger-led nature programs. So, when you’re done on the water, you can come back to shore, put up your tent, enjoy an evening on the beach, and set sail again early the next morning. It’s a sailor’s dream come true!
The Best Boat Stop for Sailing in Corpus Christi
Before you hit the open ocean, you need a safe, reliable place to put your vessel in the water. The Boat Stop Marina is an exclusive private marina located right in the heart of Corpus Christi. There is a spacious 45-foot dual boat launch ramp and an easy route to the Intracoastal Waterway, so our marina is one of the top choices for water access in the area.
If you want to take your adventures to the next level when sailing in Corpus Christi, trust Boat Stop Marina to help you experience boating at its finest! Call us today to learn more about our membership and exciting upcoming events hosted at our private marina.
If you are new to boating or you just have a new boat, you need to learn how to dock a boat in a marina. Once you understand the steps, you will find the process easy to replicate. However, you need to take time to study and practice these steps to protect yourself, your guests, your boat and the dock and marina.
Learn About Your Boat
The first step in safely docking your boat in a marina is to learn about your boat. Every vessel is different, so learn how your boat maneuvers, such as its lateral wind resistance and turn radius.
Educate Yourself on Your Dock and Marina
The next step in how to dock your boat in a marina requires learning about the marina and dock. Ask about the dock size and water depth. Then, find out if you will have a dock or slip and the docking difficulty.
Dock versus Slip
A dock is open on three sides, so you have ample room to maneuver your boat as you prepare to dock. A slip is surrounded on three sides by structures or piers. These are much more complicated to dock in because you lack the space to maneuver.
Communicate Your Intentions
You may not think communication is a big priority when you learn how to dock a boat in a marina, but it is. You may need to let the marina know you are about to dock your boat. You should also share your intentions with anyone on your boat. Encourage them to sit down, and direct them to keep their limbs inside the boat.
Prepare Your Boat
Push your fenders over the sides of your boat near the dock structure so they sit just above the water line. Then, prepare your bow and spring lines.
Observe Your Surroundings
The next step in how to dock your boat is to observe. Pay attention to the wind and how it moves your boat. Then, check the current. Adjust how you move your vessel accordingly. Also, watch for other boats in the area.
Slow Your Speed
Reduce your speed to a crawl as you get within 100 yards of the dock. Power your boat in short bursts.
Move Toward the Dock
If you can, approach the dock at a 45-degree angle because you can target a specific spot. Line up your boat with the dock. Then, accelerate and decelerate slowly moving forward and backward, shifting away from the pier or shearing off as you move. Avoid using your forward and backward thrusters for more than two seconds at a time.
Before you meet the pier with your bow, toss the eye line over the pier cleat. Then, move your boat ahead slowly about two feet.
Secure Your Boat
The final step in how to dock a boat in a marina is to tie your boat to the dock. Tie off the bow rope first after you stop the boat. Then, tie your spring line to prevent your boat from moving backward and forward or hitting the dock.
Conclusion Heading
If you have questions about how to dock a boat in a marina or seek a marina with free parking and amenities, contact us.
