%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F14909%2Fimages%2F1713571611725image58.png&w=1200&q=100)
Top-Rated Port Aransas Afternoon Fishing | HB Charters
- Published Date: December 5, 2025
- Fishing
- Port O'Connor, TX, USA
Summary
%2F%2Fusers%2F7f994fd9-d533-49d0-968d-03896d8355ea%2Fratecard%2F493668142_2677501662448966_3483145834295732423_n-misiol60.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Gulf Catches of the Day
Half-Day Offshore Adventure: Port A's Fishing Hotspots
Ready for an afternoon of rod-bending action in the Gulf? Captain Herb Broussard's got you covered with this 4-hour offshore trip out of Port Aransas. You'll be chasing after some of the Gulf's most prized catches – from hard-fighting amberjack to tasty red snapper. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip's perfect for soaking up some sun and reeling in some memories.
What to Expect on the Water
We'll push off from the dock at 1 PM sharp, so don't be late! Captain Herb's got his sights set on some primo fishing spots up to 20 miles offshore. That's where the big boys hang out. You'll have about 3 solid hours of fishing time, so pace yourself and stay hydrated. The Gulf can get choppy, but don't sweat it – seasickness is just part of paying your dues as an offshore angler. Bring a cooler packed with snacks and drinks to keep your energy up. And hey, don't forget that fishing license – it's required for everyone on board, no exceptions.
Offshore Tactics 101
Offshore fishing's a whole different ballgame from casting off the pier. We'll be using heavy-duty gear to handle the big boys lurking in the deep. Captain Herb's a pro at reading the water and finding the honey holes where fish are stacked up. We might do some trolling for kings and mahi, or drop lines for bottom-dwellers like snapper. Pay attention to how the captain rigs up – you'll learn some tricks of the trade that'll serve you well on future trips. And when a fish hits, hold on tight! These Gulf monsters don't go down without a fight.
Species You'll Want to Hook
King Mackerel: These speedsters are the drag-screamers of the Gulf. Kings can top 50 pounds and will make your reel sing when they hit. They're most active in the warmer months, and there's nothing quite like watching one skyrocket on a surface bait. Smoked king mackerel dip is a local favorite – if you're lucky enough to land one, you're in for a treat.
Mahi Mahi: Also known as dorado or dolphinfish, these acrobatic beauties are a sight to behold. They're famous for their vibrant colors and their tendency to go airborne when hooked. Mahi are often found near floating debris or weed lines, so keep your eyes peeled. They're delicious on the grill and make for some killer fish tacos.
Greater Amberjack: Fondly called "reef donkeys" by Gulf anglers, these bruisers are like underwater tractors. They live near structure and will test your arms and your gear. The fight with an AJ is often won or lost in the first few seconds – you've got to turn their head before they dive for cover. They're most abundant in the cooler months and make for some mean fish fingers.
Cobia: These curious fish often swim right up to the boat, giving you a shot at sight-casting. They're hard fighters and can grow over 100 pounds. Cobia have a reputation for being unpredictable – one minute they're lazily cruising, the next they're tearing off 50 yards of line. They're in season year-round and are excellent on the dinner table.
Red Snapper: The crown jewel of Gulf bottom fishing. These crimson beauties are highly regulated due to their popularity, so check the current regs before your trip. They're typically found near structure and put up a good fight on the way up. There's a reason every restaurant in Port A has snapper on the menu – they're downright delicious.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Port Aransas is a fishing mecca for good reason. The diversity of species you can target in a single afternoon is hard to beat anywhere else. Plus, there's something special about that first glimpse of blue water as you clear the jetties. Captain Herb's been running these waters for years, and he's got the local knowledge to put you on fish consistently. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler or just enjoy a relaxing day on the water, this trip delivers. And let's be honest – there's no better way to cap off a day of fishing than swapping stories over cold drinks at one of Port A's laid-back waterfront bars.
Time to Book Your Spot
If you're itching to bend a rod and feel that Gulf breeze in your hair, don't wait to book this trip. Half-day afternoon trips are perfect for folks who want to sleep in a bit or have morning plans. With only room for 4 anglers, spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Remember to grab your fishing license beforehand, and maybe pack a light jacket – it can get breezy out there. Captain Herb's got the know-how and the hotspots dialed in, so all you need to bring is a good attitude and maybe a bit of luck. Who knows? You might just end up with the catch of a lifetime and a story to tell for years to come. So what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, and the Gulf's calling your name. Book now and get ready for some serious rod-bending action!
Learn more about the species
Cobia
Cobia are one of the most exciting fish to catch in Port Aransas waters. These curious, hard-fighting fish average 20-40 pounds but can top 100. Look for them around buoys, pilings, and floating debris, often in 30-70 feet of water. Cobia are most active here from spring through fall when water temps are in the 70s. They're often spotted near the surface, making sight-fishing a possibility. These fish are aggressive feeders and will hit a variety of baits and lures. Live eels or pinfish are top choices, but they'll also chase jigs and swim baits. When you hook one, be ready for powerful runs and even some jumps. A medium-heavy spinning setup with 30-50 pound braid works well. Here's a local tip: if you see one, cast well ahead of it and let the bait sink - cobia often investigate things in their path. They're also excellent eating, with firm, white meat that's great for grilling or blackening.
Greater Amberjack
Greater amberjack are bruisers of the Gulf, known for their powerful fights. These fish can reach 6 feet and over 100 pounds, though 30-50 pounders are more common. You'll find them around deep reefs, wrecks, and oil rigs in 60-250 feet of water. AJs, as we call them, are most active in the cooler months from fall through spring. They're aggressive predators, often attacking baits with explosive strikes. Be ready for a battle - these fish have serious stamina and will try to dive back to structure. Heavy tackle is a must. Live bait like blue runners or pogies works well, or try big jigs if you're up for a challenge. Vertical jigging can be especially effective. When you hook one, get it away from the structure fast to avoid getting broken off. AJs aren't the best eating when they're big, but smaller ones make good table fare if properly prepared.
King Mackerel
King mackerel are a prized catch in Port Aransas. These streamlined speedsters typically run 20-40 pounds but can top 90. Look for them in waters 40-150 feet deep, often near structures like reefs or wrecks. Kings are voracious predators, chasing baitfish near the surface. They put up an exciting fight, making blistering runs that'll test your gear. Late spring through fall is prime time, with water temps in the upper 60s to low 80s. To land one, try trolling with live bait like blue runners or menhaden. A wire leader is a must to prevent bite-offs from their razor-sharp teeth. Kings make excellent eating too, with firm, flavorful meat that's great grilled or smoked. Just remember to check local regulations, as there are often size and bag limits to protect the population.
Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish
Mahi mahi are a favorite target here, known for their acrobatic fights and stunning colors. These fish average 15-30 pounds but can reach 50+. You'll find them in the warmer months, often around floating debris or weed lines up to 20 miles offshore. Mahi are fast-growing and short-lived, which makes them a sustainable choice. They're aggressive feeders, readily hitting both live bait and artificial lures. Sight-fishing for them is a blast - watch for their electric blue and green colors flashing near the surface. A medium-heavy spinning setup with 30-pound line works well. Try drifting with live bait or casting bright-colored jigs or poppers. When you hook one, keep the boat moving to attract others in the school. Mahi are also fantastic eating, with light, flaky meat that's perfect for tacos or grilling.
Red Snapper
Red snapper are a Gulf staple and a favorite target for good reason. These fish average 5-15 pounds but can reach 30+. You'll find them around reefs, wrecks, and other structure in 60-300 feet of water. Snapper fishing is best in the warmer months, particularly during the short federal season. They're bottom dwellers, so you'll need to get your bait down deep. Fresh cut bait like cigar minnows or squid works well, as do live pinfish. Use heavy tackle - 50-80 pound braid with a fluorocarbon leader. When you hook one, crank hard to get it off the bottom before it can dive back into structure. Snappers put up a good fight, especially the bigger ones. Electric reels are common for deep dropping, but manual reels give you a better feel for the bite. Don't forget to vent or use a descending device if you're releasing them from deep water. Red snapper are prized for their sweet, nutty flavor - they're some of the best eating fish in the Gulf.
About the Cabin Cruisers
%2F%2Fusers%2F7f994fd9-d533-49d0-968d-03896d8355ea%2Fvehicle_picture%2Fimage57.png&w=1200&q=75)
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha v6
Maximum Cruising Speed: 40
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 250
