Updated: Thursday, October 22, 2026 · Next update: Thursday, October 29, 2026
This Texas Gulf Coast fishing report covers late October, when fall fronts cool the bays and the bull red run continues at the jetties. Bull redfish are the lead target at the jetties and passes on the outgoing tide, speckled trout work the shorelines and grass flats, and the flounder run ramps up. The conditions to plan around are the passing fronts, which can change things quickly, and moving water at the jetties as tides strengthen toward the full moon.
What’s Hitting
Bull reds are at the jetties and passes, speckled trout are on the shorelines and grass flats, and the flounder run is ramping up. Black drum are around the reefs and sheepshead are on the pilings.
Expect flounder numbers to peak toward November, and each front can trigger another push of fish.
Where to Find Them
Fish the jetties at Port Aransas and Port O’Connor on the outgoing tide for bull reds. A falling tide pulls bait out of the bays and through the passes, and big reds hold along the rocks to intercept it.
Work the shorelines of Aransas Bay and Matagorda Bay for trout, and the channel edges for flounder. Flounder lie on the bottom along drop-offs and wait for the current to carry bait past, which makes channel edges a reliable place to find them during their fall movement.
Tides & Conditions
With the moon building toward full, tides are strengthening, and moving water at the jetties is best. A passing front can change conditions quickly, bringing a wind shift and dropping water levels in the bays.
Check a current tide chart and wind forecast for the day you plan to fish.
Tackle & Tactics
- Bull reds: cut mullet and live finger mullet.
- Trout: live shrimp under a cork.
- Flounder: a mud minnow on a Carolina rig. The rig lets the minnow swim naturally just off the bottom while the sliding weight keeps it near the fish.
Fish the jetties with enough weight to hold bottom, and keep a landing net handy. Lifting a heavy fish onto the rocks by the line is a good way to lose it or break off.
Local Intel This Week
Roberts Point Park at Port Aransas puts you near the jetties and the ship channel, and Rockport Beach Park offers shoreline access on Aransas Bay for trout. Cole Park in Corpus Christi gives bayfront access on the Corpus Christi side. Conn Brown Harbor in Aransas Pass is another public access point and a launch for the bay shorelines and channel edges. Check current state and federal regulations and seasons before keeping fish.
This Week’s Tip
Wait for the front. The day after a cold front passes, fishing often turns on. Watch the forecast, let the strongest wind settle, and plan to be on the water as conditions stabilize.
Planning a trip to Texas Gulf Coast?
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