Heading to Rockport? Find out who needs a Texas saltwater fishing license, what it costs for visitors, and how to buy yours before hitting the flats.

License Guide

Texas Saltwater Fishing License: Ultimate Angler’s Guide

The summer pattern is in full swing here in the Rockport and Aransas Pass flats. Despite having to dodge passing Gulf storms over the last few days, the local bite has remained highly active. If you are ready to work around the weather, the rewards are waiting on the water.

The Early Morning Bite: We are finding big redfish holding tight in the shallow flats and pockets early in the morning. While the water is still cool, these fish are feeding aggressively.

The Midday Transition: As the sun gets high and the temperature heats up, the redfish are shifting out of the shallows and moving into the deeper channels to find cooler water. Adjusting your depth as the day warms up is key to staying on the fish.

We still have open dates running through the end of the summer season (September 1st), but spots are filling up.

Book Your Summer Trip:

Ready to get on the water and bend some rods? Give Captain Eric Whitworth a call directly at 817-243-8332 to check our remaining open dates and customize your kayak trip.

Dodging Coastal Storms for Big Texas Reds

Learn step-by-step Fishing techniques, tips, and best practices from Rocky Branch Charters in Rockport, TX. Build skills and adventure with confidence.

Rockport, TX Fishing How-To Guides | Rocky Branch Charters

Rocky Branch Charters is your go-to local guide service for high-quality kayak fishing and scenic eco-tours along the vibrant Texas Gulf Coast. Operating out of Rockport, Aransas Pass, Port Aransas, and Corpus Christi, we specialize in bringing you close to nature. Led by Captain Eric Whitworth, a seasoned local waterman with over two decades of experience, our mission is to deliver personal, engaging, and memorable days on the water. We operate seasonally from June 1st through September 1st, including all major summer holidays. Whether you are an experienced angler looking to sight-cast in the shallow flats or a family searching for a peaceful outdoor activity, we customize every trip to fit your needs. Premier Flats FishingOur shallow-water kayak fishing trips target the legendary flats of Redfish Bay and the surrounding coastal waters. We help you target highly sought-after species, including:Redfish (Red Drum)Speckled TroutFlounderSnook We provide all the premium gear, including rods, reels, tackle, and live bait, along with complimentary catch cleaning at the end of your trip. If you prefer to bring your own kayak and gear, we offer a discounted rate to accommodate you. Family-Friendly Eco-ToursBeyond fishing, Rocky Branch Charters offers specialized non-fishing trips that showcase the rich biodiversity of our coastal environment. Our fully customizable options include:Dolphin Watching: Observe local dolphin pods in their natural habitats.Wildlife &amp; Bird Watching: Explore pristine wetlands home to unique migratory birds.Lydia Ann Lighthouse Paddles: Take a scenic paddle out to one of the region's most iconic historic landmarks. We utilize top-tier 10-foot Pelican kayaks, which are exceptionally stable and easy to maneuver. For families with children, we offer multi-passenger configurations so you can paddle together safely.At Rocky Branch Charters, we focus on genuine hospitality, safety, and a deep respect for the coastal environment. Contact us this summer to experience an authentic taste of the Texas coast with a guide who truly cares.

EPSG:4269

Two kayakers in tandem kayak near waterfront houses and marsh grass in Aransas Pass TX

Redfish caught during fishing tour in Aransas Pass TX

Successful fishing trip in Aransas Pass TX with freshly caught bass

Redfish caught while kayak fishing in Aransas Pass TX

Speckled trout catch from fishing tour in Aransas Pass TX

Bright green kayak on calm water surrounded by mangroves in Aransas Pass TX fishing area

Redfish catch displayed on fishing boat in Aransas Pass TX

Kayak fishing setup with fishing rods and gear on shoreline in Aransas Pass TX

Fishing from shallow waters in Aransas Pass TX with fishing rod

Black drum fishing success in Aransas Pass TX with caught fish displayed

Angler fishing from rocky shoreline with driftwood in Aransas Pass TX

Black drum fish catch during fishing trip in Aransas Pass TX

Weathered wooden pilings extending into calm water at Aransas Pass TX fishing location

Exploring Rockport: A Local Guide to Coastal CharmWhile many travelers head to the Texas Coastal Bend to explore our world-class bays with Rocky Branc

Rockport Texas Visitors Guide: Top Local Attractions

How to Get Your Texas Saltwater Fishing LicensePlanning a kayak fishing trip to the Coastal Bend is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the b

The summer pattern is in full swing here in the Rockport and Aransas Pass flats. Despite having to dodge passing Gulf storms over the last few days, t

Feel the unmatched joy of hooking a legendary Texas redfish as you glide through the serene, shallow flats of Rockport with Rocky Branch Charters. Lock in your custom dates today and secure a coastal experience your family will talk about for years to come!

Experience the rich waters of the Texas Gulf Coast with Rocky Branch Charters, your premier destination for guided kayak fishing and coastal eco-tours across Rockport, Aransas Pass, and Port Aransas. Led by Captain Eric Whitworth, an expert local guide with over 20 years of hands-on experience, we provide accessible, family-friendly trips suited for all ages and skill levels. Whether your goal is to sight-cast in the shallow flats for Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, and Snook, or to enjoy a quiet afternoon observing local dolphins, we deliver highly customized service at affordable prices. We focus on making your time on the water as productive and comfortable as possible, outfitting you with stable 10-foot Pelican kayaks, premium rods, live bait, and complimentary catch cleaning. Captain Eric's deep local expertise ensures you are consistently positioned in the best areas to get a bite, removing the guesswork from your day. Gather the family, enjoy a relaxing paddle in nature, and let us handle all the details and heavy lifting. Book your trip today for a scenic wildlife tour, or book your fishing trip today to reel in the perfect Texas coast catch!

Find answers to your most common Rockport kayak fishing questions here, ensuring all your trip details, safety concerns, and booking logistics are fully addressed before you head out on the water with Captain Eric.

For Captain Eric Whitworth, the coastal waters of Rockport, Aransas Pass, and Port Aransas are much more than just a workspace—they are home. A lifelong waterman who grew up surfing, fishing, and working on his family's local ranch, Eric's connection to the Texas Coastal Bend runs deep. Over twenty years ago, after years of sharing his love for the ocean with friends and family and pulling in massive local redfish, transitioning to guiding was a natural next step. Today, he brings that lifetime of local knowledge to every outing, helping guests navigate the delicate coastal ecosystems with the confidence that only comes from decades of firsthand experience. Eric’s guiding philosophy centers on patience, safety, and a genuine love for the natural environment. Unlike operations that focus solely on rushing to hit quick harvest limits, Eric measures the success of a day by the smiles on his guests' faces and the quality of their time on the water. Some of his most cherished memories as a guide involve introducing his own father and sons to the joy of fishing, and he brings that same family-first dedication to every group he hosts. Whether he is helping a young child land their very first fish or navigating a sudden coastal storm to find shelter by the historic Lydia Ann Lighthouse, his calm presence and expert decision-making reassure guests that they are in safe, highly capable hands. His deep expertise extends across a wide range of coastal activities, from technical light-tackle flats fishing and fly fishing to relaxed, informative birding and dolphin-watching eco-tours. As a dedicated local guide, Eric understands how tides, weather patterns, and seasonal shifts affect marine life behavior, allowing him to read the water with remarkable precision. This comprehensive understanding of the local habitat enables him to customize every single trip to the specific comfort levels and interests of his guests. His goal is simple: to share the quiet, untouched beauty of the Texas flats while providing a supportive and educational environment where everyone can learn and succeed. To navigate the exceptionally shallow flats of the local bays, Eric utilizes a fleet of stable, unpowered watercraft, featuring the 2026 10-foot Pelican kayak. These kayaks are specifically designed for maximum stability and ease of paddling, making them ideal for both seasoned anglers and absolute beginners. For families traveling with younger children, these versatile vessels can be configured to safely hold up to four passengers, allowing parents and kids to share the paddling experience together. By utilizing these quiet, shallow-draft crafts, guests can glide silently over seagrass beds and into narrow pockets, reaching secluded fishing hotspots and wildlife sanctuaries that traditional motorized boats simply cannot access.

Lifelong Waterman And Your Trusted Local Coastal Guide

Planning a trip to Rockport, Texas? Discover the best local attractions, beautiful beaches, historic sites, and coastal dining to enjoy during your stay.

Rockport Sights

Join Rocky Branch Charters for expert guided flats fishing. Target flounder, snook, redfish and trout on evening trips departing 5:30 PM.

Evening Flats Trip

Evening Flats Fishing in Aransas Pass

Join Rocky Branch Charters for top-rated kayak flats fishing in Rockport. Target redfish and trout.

Kayak Flats Trip

Guided Kayak Fishing Charter Rockport, TX

Join our 2-hour guided dolphin eco tour in Rockport's calm channels. Small groups, expert guides.

Dolphin Eco Trip

Rockport Dolphin Watching Eco Tour

World class flats fishing at Redfish Bay targeting redfish, snook, and trout. Book your guide today.

Lighthouse Paddle

Redfish Bay Flats Fishing Adventure

Top rated 2-hour kayak eco tours in Port Aransas wetlands. Expert guides, all skill levels welcome.

Bird Kayak Tour

Guided Kayak Eco Tour Port Aransas

Rockport Kayak Fishing Frequently Asked QuestionsHow much does a kayak fishing trip cost with Rocky Branch Charters in Rockport?Our 5-hour morning and evening kayak fishing trips cost $250 per person, which includes your stable 10-foot watercraft, rods, reels, tackle, bait, and safety gear. If you prefer to bring your own kayak and fishing gear, we offer a discounted rate of $200 per person. What is included in a kayak fishing charter with Captain Eric?We provide everything you need for a successful day on the water, including a 10-foot Pelican kayak, life vests, high-quality rods, reels, tackle, lures, and live bait. Captain Eric also cleans and fillets your legal catch at the end of the trip so it is ready for you to cook. Is fish cleaning and filleting included in Rocky Branch Charters trips?Yes, complimentary catch cleaning and filleting are included with all our guided fishing trips at no extra charge. Any fish you catch within the legal limits are yours to keep, and Captain Eric will prep them for your grill or freezer. Do I need to bring my own fishing gear for my Rockport guided trip?No, you do not need to bring any fishing gear as we supply all the necessary rods, reels, tackle, and bait. However, if you are interested in fly fishing, you will need to bring your own fly gear, and we also offer a discount if you prefer to bring your own kayak and spinning gear. What is the best time of year to fish the coastal flats in Aransas Pass?Our peak season runs from June 1st through September 1st, including all summer holidays, when warm weather keeps Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Flounder highly active in the shallow waters. This summer window offers the most consistent conditions for sighting and catching fish in the local bays. Where do we meet for our Rocky Branch Charters kayak trip in the Rockport area?We use three convenient local launch sites depending on your chosen trip: the Rockport Marina, the Fin and Feather Bait Shop in Aransas Pass, or the kayak launch near the historic Lydia Ann Lighthouse. Captain Eric will coordinate the exact meeting spot with you prior to your scheduled departure. Do you offer non-fishing trips like dolphin watching or birding in Port Aransas?Yes, we offer fully customizable 2-hour eco-tours starting at $100 per person, including dolphin watching, bird watching, and scenic paddles to the Lydia Ann Lighthouse. These trips can be extended for $50 per hour and are perfect for families, photographers, and nature lovers who want to enjoy the water without fishing. Do I need a Texas fishing license for a Rockport kayak fishing trip?Yes, anyone in your group who plans to fish must purchase a valid Texas fishing license with a saltwater endorsement before coming aboard. These are easily obtained online or at local bait shops, and you should check current tagging rules for specific species like Redfish. Are children welcome on Rocky Branch Charters kayak trips?Absolutely, kids are highly welcome on both our fishing and eco-tours, as Captain Eric loves teaching young anglers and watching them catch fish. We can configure our 10-foot Pelican kayaks to hold up to four passengers so families can safely paddle together, and we recommend bringing along child-sized life vests to ensure a comfortable fit.

Prime Kayak Fishing Flats of Rockport, Texas

Air Fee

Bait Fee

Divemaster Fee

Mate's Fee

Nitrox Fee

Service Fee

State Taxes

Trimix Fee

Cancel before this guide’s cancellation window to get a full refund.

Starting at 6:30 AM from either Rockport Marina or Fin and Feather Bait Shop, this 5-hour morning trip takes you into the shallow flats. Target species include Redfish, Speckled Trout, Snook, and Flounder. Suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned anglers. The $250 per person rate includes your 10-foot Pelican watercraft, life vest, rods, reels, tackle, lures, live bait, and complimentary catch cleaning. Our small group setting accommodates 1 to 6 guests, ensuring a personalized morning on the water. Just bring your Texas fishing license, sun protection, and snacks.

Black Drum

Redfish

Sea Trout

Snook

Southern Flounder

Rocky Branch Pelican

4 hrs 

Guided Kayak Fishing Charter Rockport, Redfish and Speckled Trout

Launching at 5:30 PM, this 5-hour evening excursion departs from your choice of Rockport Marina or Fin and Feather Bait Shop. Navigate the productive shallows as the temperature cools to target Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, and Snook. Designed for any skill level, this outing accommodates up to 6 participants at $250 per person. We provide a fully rigged 10-foot watercraft, rods, reels, tackle, live bait, lures, and catch cleaning services. Guests need to bring a valid Texas fishing license, sunglasses, and snacks for a comfortable time on the coastal flats.

Evening Guided Trip Aransas Pass, Flounder and Snook Fishing

This 2-hour coastal eco-tour offers a close-up look at local marine life, operating at flexible start times throughout the day. Departing from Rockport Marina, Fin and Feather Bait Shop, or the Lydia Ann Lighthouse launch, guests navigate calm channels to observe wild dolphins. The rate is $100 per person, with extra hours available for $50 each. Perfect for families and beginners, the package includes a 10-foot watercraft, paddles, and life vests. Groups are limited to 6 guests for safety and quiet observation. Pack water, sun protection, and a camera.

2 hrs 

Guided Trip Rockport, Dolphin Watching Eco Tour

Operating at flexible times daily, this 2-hour nature paddle departs from Rockport Marina, Fin and Feather Bait Shop, or the Lydia Ann Lighthouse launch. Guests navigate quiet wetlands and backwaters to view native marine life and migratory birds. Priced at $100 per person with extensions available for $50 per hour, this outing suits all ages and paddling skill levels. The price covers a 10-foot watercraft, life vest, and local guidance. Group size ranges from 1 to 6 people. Bring your camera, binoculars, non-spray sunscreen, and drinking water.

Guided Kayak Eco Tour Port Aransas, Coastal Bird Watching

This flexible 2-hour sightseeing excursion departs exclusively from the kayak launch near the Lydia Ann Lighthouse. Paddle through calm coastal waters to view this historic local landmark up close. Suitable for all skill levels and ages, the route offers excellent photography opportunities and a quiet atmosphere. The trip costs $100 per person, and guests can add time for $50 per hour. Groups are capped at 6 participants to ensure a safe environment. The provided equipment includes your watercraft and life vest. Guests should bring water, a hat, and sun protection.

How To Guide

Texas Saltwater Fishing License: Ultimate Angler’s Guide