Fishing in the spring along the Texas coast offers exciting opportunities to catch black drum, redfish, and even sharks from the surf. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to make the most of your spring fishing expedition:
1. Location Matters:
Start by scouting for the right locations along the Texas coast. Look for areas near jetties, piers, or inlets where these species are likely to gather.
Popular spots include Padre Island National Seashore, Mustang Island, and Galveston Island.
2. Tackle and Bait Selection:
Use sturdy tackle suitable for handling larger fish like black drum and sharks. A medium to heavy spinning or baitcasting rod paired with a reel loaded with 20-40 lb test line is ideal.
For black drum and redfish, opt for natural baits like live or cut mullet, shrimp, or crab. Sharks are typically caught on larger baits such as chunks of fish or whole mullet.
3. Black Drum Tactics:
Black drum are often found near the bottom in shallow waters. Look for them in troughs or depressions close to shore.
Use a Carolina rig or fish finder rig with a weight heavy enough to keep your bait stationary in the surf. Best baits are blue crab and fresh shrimp.
Be patient as black drum can be finicky eaters. Let them take the bait and give them time to fully commit before setting the hook.
4. Redfish Strategies:
Redfish can be found in similar areas as black drum but are more active predators. Look for them around sandbars, shell beds, or grassy flats.
Try using popping corks with live mullet or soft plastic lures mimicking shrimp or small baitfish.
Keep an eye out for schools of feeding redfish, as they can be more aggressive during feeding frenzies.
5. Shark Fishing Techniques:
Target sharks by casting beyond the sandbars into deeper waters where they patrol for prey.
Use heavy-duty tackle with steel leaders to prevent bite-offs. Wire leaders or heavy monofilament in the 80-100 lb range are recommended.
Employ larger baits like whole mullet or chunks of jack crevalle to attract sharks. Consider chumming the water to create a scent trail but only do this if no one is swimming in the surf.
6. Safety Precautions:
Be mindful of the surf conditions and always prioritize safety. Wear appropriate attire, including sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and non-slip footwear.
Avoid fishing alone, especially when targeting larger species like sharks. Have a plan in place for handling and releasing fish safely.
By following these tips, anglers can increase their chances of success when fishing for black drum, redfish, and sharks in the Texas surf during the spring season. Remember to respect local regulations and practice responsible fishing techniques to preserve these valuable fisheries for future generations.