Get ready to step into the shallows of Corpus Christi's prime fishing grounds. This half-day trip is tailor-made for skilled anglers looking to put their wading techniques to the test. With room for up to 4 guests, you'll be joining Capt Oscar Estringel for a hands-on experience along the rich South Texas coastline. Bring your trusted gear and prepare to chase some of the Gulf's most prized inshore species. It's time to get your feet wet and your lines tight in some of the best wade fishing spots Corpus has to offer.
This isn't your average boat-based fishing trip. We're talking about getting up close and personal with the fish in their own element. You'll be wading through knee to waist-deep waters, feeling the gentle push and pull of the tide as you cast. Capt Oscar knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll guide you to the sweet spots where big reds and trout love to hang out. Keep your eyes peeled for subtle signs - a flick of a tail, a nervous bait ball, or that telltale "push" of water that signals a cruising redfish. This trip is all about stealth, precision, and the thrill of the hunt.
While you'll be bringing your own wade fishing gear, let's talk about what works best in these parts. A 7-foot medium-action rod paired with a quality reel spooled with 20-pound braid is a solid all-around setup. Don't forget your wading belt to keep essentials close at hand. Lure choice can make or break your day, so pack a variety. Soft plastics like DOA shrimp or Gulp! jerkbaits are local favorites, but having a topwater plug for those early morning blowups is always a good idea. And trust me, you'll want a good pair of polarized sunglasses to cut the glare and spot those fish before they see you.
Sea Trout: These silver beauties are a staple of Corpus Christi inshore fishing. Known for their speckled patterns and delicate mouths, sea trout put up a great fight on light tackle. They love to ambush prey, so working a soft plastic slowly along grass lines or over potholes can trigger explosive strikes. Spring and fall are prime times, but you can catch them year-round if you know where to look.
Redfish: The bulldogs of the flats, redfish are what many anglers come to Corpus Christi hoping to tangle with. These copper-colored brutes can often be spotted tailing in shallow water, giving wade fishermen a shot at sight-casting to them. A well-placed gold spoon or soft plastic can lead to heart-pounding runs and memorable battles. Fall is particularly good for reds, but they're available all year.
Southern Flounder: Often overlooked but always a treat to catch, southern flounder require a different approach. These masters of camouflage lie flat on the bottom, waiting to ambush passing prey. A slow retrieve with a soft plastic or live bait along drop-offs or near structure can entice a bite. While they can be caught year-round, the fall "flounder run" is legendary among local anglers.
There's something special about wade fishing that keeps anglers coming back for more. It's not just about catching fish; it's about becoming part of the environment. You'll feel the subtle changes in bottom structure underfoot, notice the way baitfish react to your presence, and develop a sixth sense for where the fish are holding. It's a more intimate, hands-on approach that can lead to some of the most rewarding catches of your life. Plus, there's nothing quite like the silence and focus that comes with being away from the boat, just you and the fish in their world.
Capt Oscar isn't just any guide; he's a local legend with years of experience under his belt. He knows the tides, the wind patterns, and how they affect fish behavior in these parts. Expect to pick up some invaluable tips on reading the water, selecting the right lure for the conditions, and perfecting your presentation. This isn't just a fishing trip; it's a masterclass in inshore angling. And don't be surprised if you find yourself swapping fish stories over a cold drink at the end of the day – that's just part of the Corpus Christi fishing culture.
Since you're bringing your own gear, make sure you've got the essentials covered. Along with your rod, reel, and tackle, don't forget: - A good pair of wading boots or old sneakers (no sandals!) - Quick-dry clothing (long sleeves and pants recommended) - Hat and polarized sunglasses - Sunscreen and bug spray - Water bottle and snacks - Camera or waterproof phone case for those "fish of a lifetime" shots And most importantly, bring your A-game and a positive attitude. The fish might not always cooperate, but with Capt Oscar's expertise, you're in for a great day on the water no matter what.
Fishing these waters isn't just about what we take; it's about preserving the resource for future generations. Capt Oscar is big on conservation, so expect to learn about proper catch and release techniques if you're not keeping fish for the table. We use circle hooks when appropriate to minimize gut-hooking, and we're always mindful of size and bag limits. It's all about respecting the fishery and ensuring that the next generation of anglers can enjoy the same world-class fishing we have today.
While the fishing is the main event, keep your eyes peeled for the other wonders of the Texas coast. You might spot graceful roseate spoonbills wading nearby, playful dolphins cruising the shallows, or even a sea turtle coming up for air. The coastal ecosystem is rich and diverse, and being out there in the water gives you a front-row seat to nature's show. It's these unexpected moments that often become the highlights of the trip, fish or no fish.
If you're an experienced angler looking to step up your inshore game, this Corpus Christi wade fishing trip with Capt Oscar Estringel is your ticket to some serious action. With only space for up to 4 guests, spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Whether you're after a personal best trout, your first bull red on the fly, or just a day of world-class fishing in beautiful surroundings, this trip delivers. Don't let another season slip by – get in touch with Capt Oscar and lock in your date. The fish are waiting, and the water's fine. See you in the shallows!
Redfish, or red drum, are a favorite target in Corpus Christi's shallows. These copper-colored bruisers love hanging out in water as shallow as 1-4 feet, often tailing with their backs exposed. Look for them around oyster reefs, grass flats, and mud bottoms. They'll hit just about anything when they're hungry, from inch-long flies to big topwater plugs. Most inshore reds run 28-33 inches, but they can grow over 45 inches and 50 pounds. Fall is prime time when they school up to spawn. Redfish put up a hell of a fight and taste great on the grill. To hook one, try working a gold spoon or soft plastic slowly along the bottom. Keep an eye out for that distinctive tail in shallow water – it's a dead giveaway. And don't forget to check those jetties and old piers – reds love structure.
Sea trout, or speckled trout, are a popular catch in Corpus Christi. These silver-sided fish typically run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds, though some monsters can hit 40 pounds. They love hanging around grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. In winter, they school up in deeper waters up to 164 feet. Sea trout put up a good fight and make for some tasty eating with their mild, flaky white meat. To land one, try using artificial lures like jerk baits, topwater plugs, or plastic shrimp. Wade fishing the flats is a great way to target them, but watch your step – they spook easy. Best times are usually dawn and dusk when they're actively feeding. If you're having trouble, try slow-trolling along grass edges. Just remember not to overcook them if you're planning on a fish fry later.
Southern flounder are the ultimate ambush predators in Corpus Christi's waters. These flat, oval-shaped fish can grow up to 33 inches, but most run 15-18 inches and around 5 pounds. You'll find them lurking on sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow coastal areas, bays, and estuaries. They're masters of camouflage, changing color to match the bottom. Fall is prime time when they migrate offshore to spawn. Flounder fishing takes patience, but the reward is some of the best-tasting fish out there. To catch one, try drift fishing or still fishing with live bait like bull minnows or mullet. Use a light-to-medium line with a single-hook rig. Here's a local tip: when you feel a bite, wait a few seconds before setting the hook. Flounder often grab bait sideways before turning it to swallow.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: 250 Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 45
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250