Discover Top Fishing Types in the Coastal Bend - The Bend Magazine

Discover Top Fishing Types in the Coastal Bend

The South Texas coast offers some of the most accessible and affordable fishing methods, here are some Coastal Bend fishing locations

Photo by Rachel Benavides

The Coastal Bend is a fishing paradise for multiple reasons. Aside from a robust variety of species, the South Texas coast offers some of the most accessible and affordable fishing methods. While particular sportfish are only reachable by boat, there are plenty of local fishing spots to sink your next line – here are some of our favorite Coastal Bend fishing locations.

Pier Fishing

Numerous pier fishing options offer anglers easy access to over-water fishing. One local favorite is Red Dot Pier. Open 365 days a year, anglers come here to catch popular varieties of fish that lurk alongside the Humble Channel. Plus, it sells tackle, beer, soda and snacks to make your fishing an enjoyable experience.

Wade Fishing/Fly Fishing

Driving along the JFK Causeway, you’ll see anglers wading out in the Laguna Madre with their rod in hand. Wade fishing requires patience as anglers stand in the water targeting fish with conventional or fly fishing gear. For those new to saltwater fishing, consider booking a lesson with Doc’s Fishing Clinic and Guide Service.

Surf Fishing

Corpus Christi offers miles of easily accessible shoreline that’s great for reeling in redfish, trout and even sharks. Padre Island National Seashore combines nutrient-rich estuaries with the Gulf of Mexico, creating an excellent habitat for an array of sea animals. Just be sure to know and follow park and state regulations.

Kayak Fishing

Many popular fish species prefer to skim across barrier island reefs and shallow flats that are best accessed by boat or kayak. Near the north-side ferry landing in Port Aransas are the Lighthouse Lakes Paddling Trails, which are a popular kayak launch spot and provide bank fishing along the channel. 

Charter Fishing

Corpus Christi is home to multiple top-notch fishing guides. Booking a charter guarantees you the best spot for fishing, depending on the type of adventure you choose. Search for toothy apex predators from the beach with Eric Ozolins at Ocean Epics Fishing Charters, or choose a deep-sea fishing trip with Coastal Cowboy Fishing Charters to catch the next “big one.”

Ready to go but don’t know what kind of rod or bait to use? Check out Knowing Which Rod is Right for You or Choosing Your Bait and Tackle.