Premium Nighttime Flounder Gigging in Aransas Pass

Midnight Flounder Adventures in Aransas Pass

Get ready for a unique nighttime fishing experience in the shallow waters of Aransas Pass. This 8-hour guided trip is perfect for newcomers to flounder gigging, where you'll learn the art of stalking these flat fish under the stars. Captain John Cryer, your local expert, will show you the ropes and help you land some impressive catches. It's not just about flounder though - you might also encounter black drum, sheepshead, and even the prehistoric-looking alligator gar. With a small group of just 4 guests, you'll get plenty of personal attention and hands-on practice.

Night Fishing 101

Forget what you know about daytime angling - gigging is a whole different ballgame. You'll head out as the sun sets, around 7:45 pm, when the flounder are most active. Captain John will kit you out with all the gear you need, including special lights to spot fish on the sandy bottom. No need to worry about licenses either - it's all covered. The beauty of gigging is in its simplicity: once you spot a flounder, you use a multi-pronged spear (the "gig") to quickly catch it. It's a hands-on, almost primal way of fishing that'll get your heart racing.

Wading in the Shallows

This isn't your typical boat fishing trip. You'll be wading through knee-deep water, feeling the soft sand between your toes as you search for your catch. The shallow bays around Aransas Pass are perfect for this style of fishing. Captain John will teach you how to move quietly through the water, how to spot the telltale eyes of a flounder, and how to position yourself for the perfect strike. It's as much about stealth and patience as it is about skill. And don't worry if you're new to this - by the end of the night, you'll be gigging like a pro.

What's Biting Tonight?

While flounder is the star of the show, the diverse ecosystem of Aransas Pass means you're in for a mixed bag of catches. Black drum are a common sight, with their distinctive chin barbels and powerful build. These fighters can give you a run for your money, especially in the shallow water. Sheepshead, with their human-like teeth and striped bodies, are another local favorite. They're crafty and can be a challenge to catch, but boy, are they tasty. And if you're really lucky, you might come across an alligator gar. These living fossils can grow huge and put up one heck of a fight. Each species requires a slightly different approach, and Captain John will be right there to guide you through it all.

Gearing Up for Success

One of the best parts of this trip? You don't need to lug around a bunch of gear. Captain John's got you covered with everything you need for a successful night of gigging. You'll be using specialized lights that cut through the water, making it easier to spot fish. The gigs themselves are simple but effective tools, designed for quick and humane catches. Wear clothes you don't mind getting wet and bring a change of clothes for after - trust me, you'll want it. A good pair of water shoes is also a smart idea to protect your feet from any sharp shells or rocks.

Target Species

Flounder are the bread and butter of gigging trips in Aransas Pass. These flat fish are masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy bottom. But once you learn to spot their eyes poking out of the sand, you'll be hooked on the thrill of the hunt. Flounder tend to move into shallower waters at night to feed, making them perfect targets for gigging. They're most active in the fall when they start their migration to deeper waters, but you can find them year-round in these parts.

Black drum are another local favorite. These cousins of the red drum can grow to impressive sizes, with some old-timers reaching over 30 pounds. They love hanging out near structure and oyster beds, using their sensitive barbels to root out crabs and small fish. In the spring, you might hear them making their distinctive croaking sounds as they gather to spawn.

Sheepshead are the tricksters of the bay. With their black and white stripes and those eerily human-like teeth, they're a sight to behold. These fish are notorious bait stealers, but gigging levels the playing field. They're often found around pilings and jetties, using their strong teeth to crunch through barnacles and crabs.

Alligator gar are the prehistoric monsters of Texas waters. These armored giants can grow over 6 feet long and weigh over 100 pounds. They're not common catches on gigging trips, but when you do spot one, it's an unforgettable experience. Alligator gar are air-breathers, often coming to the surface to gulp air, which can make for some heart-stopping moments when you're wading in the shallows.

Time to Get Gigging

If you're looking for a fishing experience that's off the beaten path, this nighttime flounder gigging trip in Aransas Pass is hard to beat. It's a chance to try something new, learn a traditional fishing technique, and maybe land some impressive catches to brag about back home. At $440 for up to 4 people, it's a great value for a unique 8-hour adventure. Remember, spots are limited to keep the experience intimate, so don't wait too long to book. Captain John's knowledge of the local waters and his patient teaching style make this trip perfect for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. So grab your buddies, book your spot, and get ready for a night of fishing you won't forget. The flounder are waiting - are you ready to gig 'em?