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

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.

About Our Company

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!

<h2>Fishing with Captain Eric Whitworth - Rates & Booking</h2>
Captain Eric Whitworth of Rocky Branch Charters on Thursday, July 16 delivers high-octane fishing and tours adventures that capture the thrill of Aransas Pass waters. This is pure action from start to finish - the kind of experience that keeps anglers coming back for more. Book your charter with Captain Eric to secure your spot on the water.

<h2>Highlights of Your Fishing Adventure</h2>
The energy is electric from the moment you step aboard. Rocky Branch Charters operates out of the prime Rockport, TX location, giving you immediate access to productive fishing grounds and stunning coastal scenery. Captain Eric knows exactly where the action is happening and how to put you in position for explosive moments.
This is the kind of fishing experience where every cast matters and every second on the water counts. Whether you're targeting local species or exploring the diverse environment, you'll feel the excitement building with every opportunity.

<h2>On the Water Experience</h2>
Aransas Pass delivers world-class fishing conditions with diverse environments and dynamic water. The area is known for consistent action and the kind of opportunities that make for unforgettable stories. Local waters here host abundant species and provide the perfect backdrop for an adrenaline-fueled day on the water.
The Rockport area offers unique coastal conditions - channels, flats, and deeper waters all within reach. This variety means constant excitement and the chance to explore different fishing scenarios throughout your day. Captain Eric's expertise combined with these prime conditions creates the perfect storm for an incredible fishing experience.
The natural environment around Aransas Pass is pristine and productive. You'll experience the unique character of Texas coastal waters, with all the beauty and action they bring. The combination of local knowledge and quality fishing grounds makes this one of the premier destinations in the region.

<h2>Plan Your Fishing Day</h2>
Your adventure with Captain Eric Whitworth is designed for maximum action and enjoyment. Rocky Branch Charters operates from Rockport, TX, positioning you perfectly for optimal fishing conditions. Captain Eric handles the navigation and strategy while you focus on the excitement of the hunt. Safety and comfort are priorities, ensuring you can concentrate on landing the catch of a lifetime. Every moment on the water is packed with potential.

Join Captain Eric Whitworth of Rocky Branch Charters for thrilling fishing and tours adventures on Thursday, July 16 in Aransas Pass. This dynamic fishing experience showcases the best of local waters and unforgettable moments on the water.

Fishing boat on water with dog companion in Aransas Pass TX

Fishing Boat on Water in Aransas Pass TX

Experience fishing and tours in Aransas Pass with Captain Eric Whitworth at Rocky Branch Charters. Book your adventure online today.

Fishing Charters in Aransas Pass, TX - Book with Captain Eric

Captain Eric Whitworth - Local Fishing Guide

Fishing Experience in Aransas Pass - What to Expect

Fishing Adventure in Aransas Pass TX

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.

Our Gallery

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

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

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

Rockport Texas Visitors Guide: Top Local Attractions

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.

Fishing Adventure in Aransas Pass TX

Fishing Experience in Aransas Pass - What to Expect

Fishing, Tours Adventures by Captain Eric Whitworth in July

Meet your Captain Eric Whitworth

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Fishing with Captain Eric Whitworth - Rates & Booking

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Fishing in Rockport, TX with Rocky Branch Charters

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