Saltwater angling adventures have a variety of origins that are limited only by one’s imagination, resources and persistence.                          

Story and photography by Danno Wise

Although hardcore inshore anglers have been casting lures and baits in bays across the Texas coast throughout winter, it is the warming winds of spring that entice most fishermen, as well as aspiring anglers, to turn their thoughts to angling pursuits. Of course, March, when the first day of spring falls, also includes Spring Break. However, this annual rite of spring is much different these days, as it is much more likely to see flocks of families than hordes of raucous college kids along most stretches of the Texas coast now. And, many of those vacationing families want to fish while they’re vacationing on the coast.

So, while there will still be plenty of hardcore salts out there chasing skinny water reds and trophy trout over the next few weeks, early spring is certainly a time more casual anglers and families can partake in some simple saltwater angling adventures. And, with the warming tides of spring, there are plenty such adventures to be had.  

When it comes to bay fishing along the Texas coast, spring is the perfect time to be able to catch plenty of fish with a relatively simple approach. Boat anglers can drift over mid-depth flats or anchor around reefs or channels. The mid-depth flats typically yield plenty of keeper specks this time of year, while the reefs and channels will produce a mix of trout, black drum, flounder and reds.

Anglers without a boat can utilize kayaks to access and explore bays. There are a growing number of kayak launch areas along the Texas coast and virtually every bay can be accessed by these highly portable vessels. In many areas, reefs, channels, flats and productive stretches of shoreline are all within a relatively easy paddle from launch points. But fishermen don’t necessarily have to be afloat in order to enjoy a productive day on the water.

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