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Family-Friendly Inshore Fishing in Rockport, TX

  • Published Date: July 23, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Rockport
  • $500 - $650 price range
  • Updated Date: October 13, 2025

Summary

Looking for a family-friendly fishing trip in Rockport? Captain Bryce Wickliffe offers a full 8-hour day on the water that's perfect for all ages and skill levels. You'll be targeting popular inshore species like Redfish, Black Drum, and Speckled Trout in the calm waters around Rockport. Bryce's friendly approach makes this trip ideal for kids and beginners, while still providing plenty of action for experienced anglers. The boat is fully equipped, and Bryce's local knowledge ensures you'll be fishing the best spots. Whether you're teaching the kids to cast or looking to land a trophy catch, this relaxed day on the water offers something for everyone. With a focus on safety and fun, you'll create lasting memories while enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery of Rockport, Texas.
Family-Friendly Inshore Fishing in Rockport, TX

Rockport's Inshore Action

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Two anglers fishing for redfish in Rockport

Redfish runs fun all day.

Redfish caught while fishing in TX

Chasing redfish along the flats.

Two anglers with redfish catch in TX

Two favorites, one great fishing trip.

Two anglers fishing in Texas

Reeling in Rockport’s finest — redfish side by side.

Two people fishing on a sunny day in TX

Hooked on Rockport trout.

Four people fishing in TX

Nothing beats a Rockport trout day.

Group of 12 people fishing on shore in TX

Fishing, relaxing, and reeling in memories.

Photograph of a spotted weakfish caught while fishing in Rockport

Rods up, trout on!

Two people fishing for five redfish in Rockport

Rockport’s waters full of reds and flatties.

Spotted Weakfish caught while fishing in Rockport

Rockport trout fishing: calm, clean, and classic.

Two anglers fishing for redfish in Rockport

Redfish runs fun all day.

Redfish caught while fishing in TX

Chasing redfish along the flats.

Two anglers with redfish catch in TX

Two favorites, one great fishing trip.

Two anglers fishing in Texas

Reeling in Rockport’s finest — redfish side by side.

Two people fishing on a sunny day in TX

Hooked on Rockport trout.

Four people fishing in TX

Nothing beats a Rockport trout day.

Group of 12 people fishing on shore in TX

Fishing, relaxing, and reeling in memories.

Photograph of a spotted weakfish caught while fishing in Rockport

Rods up, trout on!

Two people fishing for five redfish in Rockport

Rockport’s waters full of reds and flatties.

Spotted Weakfish caught while fishing in Rockport

Rockport trout fishing: calm, clean, and classic.

Two anglers fishing for redfish in Rockport

Redfish runs fun all day.

Redfish caught while fishing in TX

Chasing redfish along the flats.

Two anglers with redfish catch in TX

Two favorites, one great fishing trip.

Two anglers fishing in Texas

Reeling in Rockport’s finest — redfish side by side.

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Family Fun: Full-Day Fishing in Rockport

Get ready for a day of fishing, laughs, and memories on the calm waters of Rockport, TX. Captain Bryce Wickliffe knows these waters like the back of his hand and he's itching to show you and your crew the best spots for reeling in some beauties. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, this 8-hour trip is tailored to give everyone a shot at landing the big one. We're talking Redfish, Black Drum, and Speckled Trout – the stars of the Rockport fishing scene. So grab the family, pack some snacks, and let's hit the water for a day you won't forget!

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: You're cruising on Captain Bryce's fully-rigged boat, the sun's warming your face, and the smell of saltwater fills the air. The kids are buzzing with excitement, pointing out pelicans diving for their breakfast. That's the vibe you're in for on this trip. We'll hit up some of Rockport's prime fishing spots – shallow flats, grass beds, and maybe even some structure if the fish are playing hard to get. Cap'n Bryce's got a sixth sense for where the fish are biting, and he's all about making sure everyone on board gets in on the action. Don't worry if you're new to this – Bryce has got patience for days and he'll have you casting like a pro in no time.

Fishing Know-How & Gear

Alright, let's talk tackle. We're mostly going to be doing some good old-fashioned light tackle fishing. That means we'll be using spinning reels and rods that are easy for everyone to handle. Depending on where the fish are hanging out, we might do some drift fishing over the flats or anchor up near some structure. Bait-wise, we're talking live shrimp, cut bait, or maybe even some artificial lures if that's what's working. Captain Bryce keeps his boat stocked with all the gear you need, so no sweat if you don't have your own. Just bring your game face and maybe a lucky hat!

Top Catches This Season

Let me tell you, the fishing in Rockport has been on fire lately. We've been pulling in some chunky Redfish that'll make your arms sore, and the Black Drum have been showing up in numbers. The Speckled Trout (or Specks, as we call 'em) have been keeping things interesting too. Just last week, little Timmy – couldn't have been more than 10 – landed a Trout that was nearly as big as him! And don't even get me started on the Flounder – these flatties have been giving us some real battles. Every trip's different, but that's the beauty of it. You never know what's gonna be on the other end of your line!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish: These copper-colored beauties are the rock stars of Rockport fishing. They love to hang out in the shallows, tailing and giving themselves away. When a Redfish hits, hold on tight! They'll make your drag sing with powerful runs. Best part? They're delicious if you decide to keep one for dinner. Spring and fall are prime Redfish seasons, but we catch 'em year-round.

Black Drum: Don't let their ugly mugs fool you – Black Drum are a blast to catch. These bruisers can get big, I'm talking 30-40 pounds big. They love to root around in the mud for crabs and shrimp, so we often find them in slightly deeper water. They're not the prettiest fish in the sea, but man, do they put up a good fight. Winter and early spring is when they really show up in force.

Speckled Trout: Ah, the Speckled Trout – or Specks as we like to call 'em. These guys are the finesse fighters of the bunch. They might not pull as hard as a Redfish, but they make up for it with acrobatics. Watching a Speck jump and shake trying to throw the hook is a sight to see. They're most active in the cooler months, but we catch them year-round in Rockport.

Summer Flounder: Flatfish with an attitude – that's a Flounder for you. These ambush predators like to bury themselves in the sand and wait for an easy meal to swim by. Catching them requires a bit of patience and a delicate touch, but man, is it worth it. Late summer and fall are your best bets for hooking into these tasty flatties.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Folks, I've been guiding these waters for years, and let me tell you – there's something special about fishing in Rockport. Maybe it's the way the sun paints the sky at dawn, or how the water shimmers like glass on a calm day. Could be the thrill of watching a kid's face light up when they reel in their first fish, or the satisfaction of a seasoned angler battling a trophy catch. Whatever it is, it keeps people coming back year after year.

And it's not just about the fish – though they're a big part of it. It's about the whole experience. The pelicans diving, the dolphins playing in the wake, the stories shared and laughs had. It's about unplugging from the hustle and bustle and just enjoying a day on the water with your loved ones. That's the real magic of fishing in Rockport, and that's what Captain Bryce aims to deliver on every trip.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, let's wrap this up. If you're looking for a day of fishing that's perfect for the whole family, you've found it. Captain Bryce Wickliffe's full-day trip in Rockport is the real deal. You've got 8 hours of prime fishing time, a boat full of top-notch gear, and a guide who knows these waters like nobody's business. Whether you're after a cooler full of fish or just a day of memories with the family, this trip's got you covered.

Remember, the boat's got room for 2, so it's perfect for a parent-child duo or a couple of buddies looking to wet a line. No food's provided, so pack some snacks and drinks to keep your energy up – trust me, you'll need it when you're reeling in those fish!

Don't let this chance slip away like a fish off the hook. The calendar fills up fast, especially during peak seasons. So what are you waiting for? Grab your spot now and get ready for a day of fishing you'll be talking about for years to come. See you on the water!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black Drum are tough fighters that'll give you a workout. They typically range from 5 to 30 pounds, but the big ones can hit 90. Look for them around oyster beds, mudflats, and inlets in 1-4 feet of water. Spring's the prime time when they school up to spawn. These bottom-feeders love crustaceans, so fresh crab is your best bet for bait. Locals tip: use a heavy enough weight to keep your bait on the bottom where the drum are feeding. They're not the prettiest fish, but smaller ones under 15 pounds make for great eating with firm, white meat. The bigger ones can be tough and less tasty, so we usually release those. Listen for their distinctive drumming sound – it's how they got their name and can help you locate them.

Black Drum

Redfish

Redfish are the crown jewels of our inshore fishing. These copper-colored beauties with the signature tail spot typically run 20 to 30 inches in our bays. You'll find them tailing in shallow flats, often in water barely covering their backs. Look for them around oyster reefs, grass beds, and marsh edges. Fall is prime time when they school up, but you can catch them year-round. Anglers love Redfish for their hard-pulling fights and excellent table fare. They'll hit a variety of baits, from live shrimp to artificial lures. For a real thrill, try sight-casting to tailing Reds in clear shallows. Local tip: on calm mornings, scan the flats for their wakes or tails breaking the surface. Once you spot them, a well-placed gold spoon or topwater lure can trigger explosive strikes. It's an experience you won't forget.

Redfish

Sea Trout

Sea Trout, or Speckled Trout, are a favorite here in Rockport. These silvery fish with distinctive spots usually run 14 to 24 inches and 1 to 5 pounds. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They love structure, so look around oyster reefs and deeper channels. Spring and fall are prime seasons when the water temps are just right. Trout are known for their light, flaky meat that's excellent on the grill. Anglers enjoy targeting them because they're aggressive strikers and put up a good fight on light tackle. If you're after a big one, try using soft plastics or topwater lures early in the morning. Local tip: when you find one trout, there's usually more nearby, so work the area thoroughly before moving on. It's a blast catching these beauties, and they make for a tasty dinner too.

Sea Trout

Summer Flounder

Summer Flounder, also called Fluke, are masters of camouflage. These flatfish average 15-20 inches but can grow up to 26 pounds. You'll find them in inshore waters and estuaries, lying flat on sandy or muddy bottoms. They're ambush predators, so they'll wait for prey to come close before striking. Best fishing is from September to November when they're most active. Anglers love targeting Flounder for their delicious white meat and the challenge of hooking them. They have a sideways bite, so you've got to be quick on the set. Here's a local trick: use a fish finder rig with a live minnow or mullet hooked through the lips. Let it drift along the bottom, and when you feel a tap, give the Flounder a moment to turn the bait before setting the hook. It's a fun, unique catch that'll test your skills.

Summer Flounder

About the Bar W Outfitters

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5

Manufacturer Name: Mercury

Maximum Cruising Speed: 17

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 300

Captain Bryce Wickliffe's boat is your ticket to a fun-filled day of fishing in Rockport, TX. This vessel is set up perfectly for families and groups looking to enjoy 8 hours on the water. It's equipped with everything you need for a successful inshore fishing trip, targeting species like Redfish, Black Drum, and Speckled Trout. The boat provides a stable and comfortable platform for anglers of all ages and skill levels. With plenty of deck space, you'll have room to move around and cast comfortably. Safety equipment is on board to ensure peace of mind for parents and guardians. Captain Bryce has outfitted the boat with quality rods, reels, and tackle suited for the local fishery. There's also storage for your personal items and a cooler to keep drinks and snacks fresh throughout the day. Whether you're teaching kids to fish or looking to reel in your personal best, this boat offers the perfect setup for a relaxing and productive day on Rockport's calm waters.
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Ready to experience the thrill of fishing in Rockport, Texas, with Bar W Outfitters? Book your adventure today and let Captain Bryce Wickliffe guide you to the best fishing spots for an unforgettable experience on the water!

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