Corpus Christi, Texas, is known around the world for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and great weather—and it’s easily one of the best destinations in the U.S. for windsurfing.
Thanks to favorable wind conditions and vast stretches of water, windsurfing in Corpus Christi attracts both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike. No matter your level of experience, Corpus Christi offers everything you need for an unforgettable time windsurfing.
This guide shares the best windsurfing spots in Corpus Christi, tips on when to go, and where to find convenient access to the water for all your windsurfing needs.
Why Corpus Christi Is a Top Windsurfing Destination
Known by many as “the surfing mecca of Texas,” Corpus Christi is home to some of the best windsurfing in the country for many reasons:
Great Location: Corpus Christi’s location on the Gulf of Mexico gives it a natural advantage for water sports like windsurfing.
Mild Weather: The windsurfing season in Corpus Christi runs for 10 months out of the year with consistent winds and mild temperatures, so it’s perfect for nearly year-round action.
Warm Waters: The warm waters and steady breezes make Corpus Christi a stable spot for both learning the ropes and perfecting your technique.
Windsurfing in Corpus Christi, Texas, is also popular due to the variety of spots that cater to different skill levels and preferences. Whether you’re after smooth, flat water to practice your tricks or more challenging conditions with larger waves, there are plenty of areas to match your style.
The Best Windsurfing Spots in Corpus Christi
While you can go just about anywhere to windsurf, these Coastal Bend spots are truly one-of-a-kind.
1. The Flats at North Padre Island
One of the most popular locations for windsurfing in the area, the Flats at North Padre Island is a vast stretch of shallow water with consistent winds that make it a top spot for windsurfers of all kinds.
The water here is super calm, so it’s a great place for beginners to get comfortable with their board and sail. For intermediate to advanced windsurfers, the flats provide plenty of space to test out new moves to level up your skills.
2. Bird Island Basin
Located within the Padre Island National Seashore, Bird Island Basin is known for its strong winds and flat water, which makes it one of the most sought-after spots for windsurfing in Texas. With some larger swells for more advanced windsurfing, it’s a perfect spot for those who feel comfortable out on the water and want to experience a bit more of a challenge.
Bird Island Basin tends to be less crowded than other parts of the island, so windsurfers here can enjoy a more peaceful and open environment.
3. Mustang Island State Park
Just a short drive from Corpus Christi, Mustang Island State Park features many different water conditions, from calm, shallow areas for people just getting their bearings to stronger winds for windsurfers with experience. Its long stretch of beach gives you plenty of space to set up and really enjoy your time on the water.
The park is also a great spot to enjoy other outdoor activities like hiking and fishing after you’ve had your fill of windsurfing.
When To Go Windsurfing in Corpus Christi
The Corpus Christi windsurfing season generally runs from March through October, with the best months being April through September. During this peak stretch, winds are steady and the weather is almost always perfect for water sports.
If you prefer hitting the waves in warmer weather, the summer months will provide top-tier windsurfing conditions, though the locations can definitely become a bit more crowded. To avoid the busy season, visit in the spring and fall when the temperatures are milder and the crowds are smaller.
Top Tips for Windsurfing in Corpus Christi
To make your windsurfing adventure in Corpus Christi as fun and smooth as possible, keep these helpful tips in mind:
1. Rent Equipment
Don’t worry about purchasing equipment right away. Many locations offer windsurfing rentals that allow you to try out the sport without committing to all the gear. Renting also gives you the chance to test different types of boards and sails to find what works best for you.
To get started with windsurfing, you’ll need a basic collection of gear:
Windsurfing board
Sail
Harness
Wet suit
If you’re unsure about what gear to get, professionals at rental shops or local windsurfing schools can help guide you in choosing the right equipment.
2. Take a Lesson
Whether you’ve never tried the sport or just want to master your technique, taking a windsurfing lesson is a wise choice. Many instructors in Corpus Christi offer private or group lessons for all skill levels. Beginner lessons typically cover things like sailing basics, safety, and techniques to help you get comfortable on the water. Plus, getting feedback from instructors is a great way to improve.
3. Watch the Weather Conditions
Before heading out, always check the wind and water conditions. Corpus Christi is known for its consistent winds, but it’s important to be aware of the current weather to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Your Access To Incredible Windsurfing in Corpus Christi!
Want to make your windsurfing experience as easy as possible? The best thing you can do is plan your trip with easy water access in mind. Located on Corpus Christi Bay, Boat Stop Marina provides direct access to the water with convenient boat ramps, plenty of parking, and seamless entry to some of the best windsurfing spots in the area. The marina is also just a short distance from Padre Island, instantly making it a no-brainer starting point if you’re heading to locations like Bird Island Basin or North Padre Island.
Ready to get out on the water? Book now to secure your spot at Boat Stop Marina and start exploring the beauty of Corpus Christi windsurfing!
Baffin Bay is a bucket-list destination for anglers chasing trophy-sized speckled trout, redfish, and flounder. But if you’re new to the area, it’s hard to know exactly where to fish in Baffin Bay for success. Unlike other bays along the Texas coast, Baffin has no direct river inflow. The bay’s clear, hypersaline waters cause unique fish behavior, with the advantages of shallow flats and submerged structures.
The best fishing spots in Baffin Bay attract locals and visitors alike no matter the time of year, especially those willing to explore.
The Ultimate Guide to Where To Fish in Baffin Bay
Whether you like drifting, wading, or kayak fishing, these Baffin Bay fishing spots should definitely be on your radar.
1. The Rocks (Serpentine & Cathead Reefs)
Baffin Bay’s famous rocks are prime for anyone targeting monster trout. These ancient serpulid worm reefs provide the perfect ambush points for monster trout. Fish here by wading or drifting with live croaker, soft plastics, or topwater lures in the morning.
Boat Stop Tip: The rocks can be tricky to maneuver. Watch your depth finder to avoid running aground.
2. The Tide Gauge Bar
Located near the mouth of Baffin Bay, the Tide Gauge Bar is a great destination if you’re looking to catch slot redfish and trout. The grass beds and sandy pockets make it a great place to throw topwaters, soft plastics, or live shrimp under a popping cork.
Boat Stop Tip: If the bite slows down, try moving just off the edge of the bar into deeper water, where fish stage throughout the day.
3. Penascal Point
One of the best fishing spots in Baffin Bay, Penascal Point is excellent for both shore-based and boat anglers. A mix of mud, shell, and sand bottom attracts trophy trout and slot reds. On windy days, fish stack up along deeper edges. Slow-sinking lures and bottom fishing with live bait are solid choices.
Boat Stop Tip: During the colder months, fish move onto mud bottoms that retain heat, which is perfect for a winter fishing trip.
4. Alazan Bay
If you’re looking for a secluded, less-pressured area, head to Alazan Bay. This westernmost section of Baffin Bay is perfect for wading and kayak anglers who enjoy shallow water, grass beds, and sand pockets. It’s also an amazing flounder spot in the fall.
Boat Stop Tip: Look for nervous baitfish or slicks on the water’s surface. These are telltale signs that predators are feeding nearby.
5. Cayo del Grullo
For those who prefer drifting over wading, Cayo del Grullo is a must-fish spot. This bay arm’s long, grassy flats attract redfish, trout, and black drum. Drift a popping cork with shrimp or work a paddle tail along the bottom for best results.
Boat Stop Tip: Fish tend to push up shallow early in the morning and move deeper as the day heats up. Adjust your strategy accordingly.
How To Find Your Own Baffin Bay Fishing Spot
If you’re feeling adventurous, these tips can guide you toward your own honey hole:
Look for Slicks: Oily patches signal feeding fish.
Watch the Birds: Diving gulls or terns mean baitfish (and hungry predators below).
Check the Wind & Tides: Some spots fish better on incoming or outgoing tides.
Explore the Shorelines: Wading mudflats and grass beds often lead to big catches.
Plan the Perfect Trip To Fish in Baffin Bay
You’ve figured out where to fish in Baffin Bay—now it’s time to start planning your trip. Whether launching from Boat Stop Marina, storing your boat at Boat Stop Storage, or staying at a nearby RV resort, you’re in prime position to hit these Baffin Bay fishing spots with ease. Ready to reel in your next big catch? Book your spot today and get on the water!
The Gulf of Mexico is a sought-after destination for boat adventures due to its dynamic sights, including Alabama and Florida’s white, sandy beaches. While boating in the Gulf of Mexico, you can visit the five states that border it, as well as Cuba and parts of Mexico. However, there are hazards to watch out for if you are boating in the Gulf. The weather can change rapidly, and the further you travel into the Gulf, the more oil rigs you will encounter. Let’s dive in to see what size boat for the Gulf of Mexico is best.
How Big of a Boat Do You Need to Travel Across the Ocean?
The best boat for the Gulf of Mexico will be at least 30 to 40 feet long to travel across the ocean in safety and comfort.
Comfort
The larger the boat, the more room there is to move around, stretch your legs, and rest. A larger boat also allows for more people to be on board comfortably.
Seaworthiness
The weather on the ocean is highly unpredictable, so you need a boat big enough to withstand the storms. A canoe-style stern on a boat is also a good idea because the waves will have less impact.
What Size Boat is Good for the Bay?
For Bay boating, a 20- to 30-foot-long boat should be adequate for your needs. You want the boat to be big enough to handle the choppy, rough waters of the Bay. It should also be versatile and maneuverable to help you avoid obstacles in more crowded or busy areas.
You will want to check the weather multiple times before you leave the dock. Also, check the tide times so you are not going out during low tide. This can help prevent injury to sea creatures and vegetation that are vulnerable during that time. In addition, it will help you avoid running aground.
Dress in layers. Even if it is warm on land, the wind picks up out at sea. Layers can also help protect you from the sun.
Ensure you have a boat safety kit, a first-aid kit, and enough provisions for the journey. You do not know if you will have trouble along the way, so you should pack double the amount you think you will need.
For Gulf of Mexico boating, it is also essential that your boat has the proper safety gear, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, a flare gun, etc.
Visit Boat Stop Marina To Learn What Size Boat for the Gulf of Mexico Is Best
The best boat for the Gulf of Mexico would be a 30- to 40-foot boat that is seaworthy and comfortable. You want to ensure the boat is big enough for the crew on board and has enough storage space for provisions. If you have questions regarding what size boat for the Gulf of Mexico, contact Boat Stop Marina and we can help you get set up for your Gulf of Mexico boating experience.
Texas offers many great opportunities for fishing, whether saltwater or freshwater fishing, no matter where you are from or how old you are. However, you must know the fishing laws in Texas to avoid the risk of penalties, fines, or even jail time. That is where Boat Stop Marina comes in. We know the fishing laws and can help you understand them so you can avoid potential setbacks in your fishing excursion. Let’s look at them now.
General Fishing License Requirements
Texas requires fishing licenses with the appropriate endorsement for all residents and non-residents to fish in public waters. Licenses are valid from the purchase date to August 31 of the same year. If you purchase a freshwater package, you can buy the saltwater endorsement and vice versa.
Exceptions for Texas Residents
A fishing license is not required for residents under 17 years of age, a person born before January 1, 1931, a person with an intellectual disability and fishing is a part of their therapy, or a person with an intellectual disability fishing under the supervision of a licensed angler.
Exception for Non-Residents
As a non-resident of Texas, you do not require a fishing license if you are under 17 years of age, if you are a resident of Louisiana with a valid Louisiana Recreational fishing license and are 65 or older, or an Oklahoma resident 65 or older.
Fishing License Packages
You can choose from three types of fishing license packages: saltwater, freshwater, and all-water. The saltwater and freshwater packages come with a fishing license and the appropriate endorsement. The saltwater endorsement also comes with a Red Drum tag.
Species-Specific Regulations
If you are inshore saltwater fishing, certain fish have bag and length limits. For example, Red Drums have a minimum length requirement of 20 inches and a maximum length of 28 inches. The bag limit for Red Drums is three per day. If you are offshore deep-sea fishing, most of these fish have limits that follow federal regulations.
If you are freshwater fishing in Texas, bag and length limits also apply. For example, White Bass have a minimum length requirement of 10 inches with no maximum length. The bag limit for White Bass is 25 per day.
Bag and size limit regulations help maintain fish populations and ensure sustainable fishing practices.
Fishing Seasons and Closures
Fishing laws in Texas list seasons and closures to protect fish during vulnerable spawning times and help maintain healthy fish populations so that you and others can continue fishing year after year. Texas has different closures and seasons for different species and the water where you are fishing. Season closures for specific fish mean that you can’t catch that type of fish during that time.
Generally, there are no official closed seasons for freshwater or saltwater fishing in Texas. However, Texas may implement closure on certain fish species if the quota for that period has been met, for example, they do this with Bluefin Tuna.
Gear and Method Regulations
According to the fishing laws in Texas, you can use many different methods for fishing.
Pole and Line: A person can use a pole with an attached line and hook, including a rod with a reel, to catch gamefish and nongame fish.
Cast Net: A net thrown by hand over a designated area can be used for nongame fish, crab, crayfish, and shrimp, though some restrictions apply.
Jugline: A fishing line with five or fewer hooks is attached to a floating device with the appropriate gear tag. It can be used in freshwater only to catch nongame fish and specific kinds of catfish.
There are many more legal fishing devices and methods available. Check with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to ensure there are no exceptions or restrictions on your preferred method or gear.
Exceptions and Restrictions
Here are a few of the exceptions and restrictions on fishing devices and methods:
Unless otherwise noted, you can fish with multiple poles or other devices.
If you are freshwater fishing, you can fish with multiple devices. However, having more than 100 hooks on the devices is unlawful.
When freshwater fishing, if you are using a spear or spear gun for gamefish, you must use a handheld device underwater to take fish.
These are just a few of the limitations you may encounter when reviewing fishing laws in Texas.
Penalties and Enforcement
If you violate any of the fishing laws in Texas, you may be penalized depending on the severity of the violation and the number of offenses you have committed. For example, you could be charged with a misdemeanor and get fined.
Class C misdemeanor fines are between $25 and $500. Fines for Class B misdemeanors are between $200 and $2000, and you can receive jail time up to six months. A Class A misdemeanor includes fines of between $500 and $4000, and you can receive up to a year in jail time.
You could also be fined with state felonies if you are fishing in private waterways without consent from the landowner, and it is your second offense. Felony penalties include fines between $1,500 and $10,000, and you can receive up to two years of jail time. You can also get your fishing license suspended or revoked for up to five years and forfeit your fishing gear.
How To Stay Updated on Fishing Laws
To stay updated on fishing laws in Texas, contact the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. You can also visit them online for new updates to fishing laws. You could subscribe to their newsletter for information on law changes, or follow them on their social media channels.
Texas Outdoor Annual App
Another way to stay informed is to download the Texas Outdoor Annual App. This app shows you everything from bag and size limits to where to find a retailer that sells fishing licenses.
Learn the Fishing Laws in Texas with Boat Stop Marina
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is your best resource for fishing laws, but you can also ask experienced anglers, fishing shops, or marinas. If you review and follow the laws, no trouble will arise. If you have questions or want to know more about the fishing laws in Texas before hitting the water, contact us at Boat Stop Marina today.
Catch-and-release fishing is just what it sounds like. You catch a fish and release it in the same water you caught it in. When finishing in Texas, whether you are keeping the fish or going out for some fun catch-and-release fishing, you must have a Texas fishing license with the proper endorsement. If you are fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, you need a saltwater endorsement, and likewise for freshwater lakes, rivers, etc. So, the real question is, “Can you catch and release fish out of season in Texas?” Let’s find out.
How Do You Catch and Release Fish Without Killing Them?
Catching and releasing fish is a fun way to spend the day if you know how to avoid killing the fish in the process. Here are some equipment tips and fishing strategies to avoid killing fish during your catch-and-release fishing expedition.
Equipment
These equipment tips will lessen the stress on fish and help them survive after their release.
Use circle or barbless hooks, or crimp the barb down on hooks for easier release.
Use non-stainless steel hooks, as they will corrode over time and fall off the fish if you cannot remove them or the fish breaks your line.
Ensure your tackle is strong enough to land the fish quickly so it does not exhaust itself fighting.
If needed, use a wet, soft mesh net or rubber net to prevent any disturbance to the fish’s mucus coating, eyes, fins, gills, etc.
You should also invest in a dehooker or other release tool to minimize handling the fish. A release tool also makes it easier to release the fish without taking it out of the water.
Best Practices for Catch and Release
Here are some best practices for catching and releasing fish for its best chance of survival.
If possible, release the fish in the water. If you cannot, keep air exposure to 60 seconds or less.
If you must handle the fish, make sure your hands are wet and do not touch the fish’s eyes or gills.
If you have to remove the fish from the water, support its body with your hands. Avoid holding the fish by its lip or mouth.
When releasing a fish, hold the fish’s belly. If it does not swim away quickly, you can resuscitate the fish by holding its mouth toward the current until it can swim away independently.
Also, if the fish swallows the hook or you cannot remove it easily, cut the line as close to it as possible.
What Happens if You Accidentally Catch a Fish Out of Season?
If you accidentally catch a fish out of season, you need to release it immediately with the least amount of harm. Do not attempt to keep the fish. Violating Texas fishing laws is a misdemeanor, either class A, B, or C, that can result in fines up to $4000 and up to a year of jail time, depending on the severity of the offense.
Boat Stop Marina Helps You Understand if You Can Catch and Release Fish Out of Season
Can you catch and release fish out of season in Texas? Yes, but if you do, release them right away without causing the fish harm. Punishment for violating Texas fishing laws can result in hefty fines and/or jail time. If you are visiting Corpus Christi and want to learn more about Texas fishing laws and tips and tricks for catch-and-release fishing, contact us at Boat Stop Marina.
