Gin-Clear Water and Fly Fishing at Its Best

Aransas Pass is not the epicenter of flyfishing in Texas…

but after this trip, we’re convinced it should be.

With excellent boat launches, quick access to pristine flats, and abundant opportunities for both wade fishing and kayaking, Aransas Pass is one of the premier fly-fishing destinations on the Texas coast. The area delivered beautiful scenery, challenging conditions, and memorable catches for our Texas Fly Fishers (TFF) crew.

Most importantly, one of our newest fly anglers landed his first redfish on a fly rod, making the trip an immediate success.

We’re already planning to make this an annual TFF outing.

Why Aransas Pass?

Aransas Pass offers anglers an incredible variety of fishing opportunities. Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Flounder are common targets, while the surrounding waters provide everything from shallow grass flats to jetties and protected backwaters.

Popular fishing locations include:

Redfish Bay
Lighthouse Lakes
Aransas Pass Jetties
Brown & Root Flats
Ingleside Flats

Boat anglers enjoy easy access from Conn Brown Harbor and the recently renovated Aransas Pass Public Boat Ramp. Kayakers will find endless launch opportunities along the Redfish Bay Causeway, making the area one of the most kayak-friendly destinations in Texas.

Conditions

Weather & Tides

High Tide: 11:32 a.m.
Low Tide: 5:01 p.m.
Wind: 10–20 mph

The wind was stronger than normal for this time of year. While it made accurate fly presentations challenging, it also provided some welcome relief from the summer heat.

The Trip

Seven TFF members attended, including one angler experiencing saltwater fly fishing for the very first time.

Our group focused on fishing grass flats and shorelines. Some anglers worked from skiffs, while others used boats to access remote locations before stepping out to wade fish. Despite challenging conditions, everyone embraced the adventure and enjoyed exploring the clear, fish-filled waters of the Coastal Bend.

Areas Fished

Super Flats
Cowtrap
Lighthouse
Ransom Flat
Ingleside Flats
East Redfish Bay
Brown & Root Flats

Productive Flies

Redfish Crack
Seaducer
Scott’s Magic

Fishing Results

The combination of strong winds and floating grass kept anglers on their toes throughout the weekend. Fortunately, local knowledge made all the difference.

A special congratulations goes to Scott Fossum, who somehow managed a remarkable feat: every angler fishing from his boat landed at least one fish on the fly each day of the trip.

Scott also landed a personal-best 24-inch ladyfish, adding another highlight to an already successful weekend.

Other anglers struggled to locate fish willing to eat a fly but found success catching both redfish and trout while drifting the flats with conventional tackle.

And of course, the biggest victory was seeing our newest saltwater fly angler land his first redfish and speckled trout on fly gear.

Special Shout-Outs

Phil Stranahan

Phil joined Michael Quigley for the outing. A longtime TFF member since 1999 and a strong supporter of the Redfish Rodeo, it was great to have Phil back on the water with the group.

Palmer Jones— Cast and Blast Media

New TFF member Palmer Jones documented the trip with outstanding photos and video while also checking off two personal milestones: his first redfish and first speckled trout on the fly.

Beyond the Fishing

As always, the camaraderie was just as memorable as the fishing.

The group gathered together for dinner each evening.
Our outing organizer kept everyone well fed—and supplied with plenty of desserts.
Members visited local fly shops, including Orvis and The Fly Trap. Both are excellent fly shops and supporter of the club.