The Gulf of Mexico is home to a wide array of wildlife, including waterfowl, shorebirds, many different fish species, coral reefs, and more, even lobsters. Texas is not known for having a lobster population, but they are occasionally seen if the conditions are right. Now, let’s look deeper to find out if there are lobsters in the Gulf of Mexico and if you can catch them.
Are There Lobsters in the Texas Gulf of Mexico?
Lobsters exist in the Gulf of Mexico, though they are typically found more prominently in areas other than Texas. The Gulf of Mexico has many marine ecosystems, home to a wide variety of sea life. Sporadically, lobster populations have been observed.
Lobster Species in the Gulf
There are several lobster species you can find in the Gulf of Mexico. Let’s look at some of the common ones.
Spiny Lobster
Spiny lobsters are the most common species seen in the Gulf. There are two types of Spiny lobster: Spotted and Broad-tailed. These Spiny lobsters have large tails but do not have claws to protect themselves, so they move very quickly.
Spanish Slipper Lobster
Spanish Slipper Lobsters are bright red and shiny. They are often found in the cracks and crevices of coral reefs but are also some of the most widely caught lobsters for commercial sale to markets and restaurants.
Sculptured Slipper Lobster
Sculptures Slipper Lobsters resemble horseshoe crabs. They have ten legs, a flat body, and a brownish-yellow, sandy-looking shell.
Can You Catch Lobster in the Gulf?
Yes, you can catch lobster in the Gulf of Mexico, though it is easier to find them around Texas if the current is right and they had a mild winter, so the water conditions are right. Lobsters tend to reside in more tropical areas.
Regulations and Legal Considerations
There are several federal regulations regarding lobster fishing, including times of year, bag limits, and sizes.
Lobster fishing is open from January 1 through March 31, July 24 through July 25, and August 6 through March 31.
Lobster fishing is closed from April 1 through July 23, July 26 through August 5, and April 1 through December 31.
Bag limit of six lobsters.
The carapace length must be three inches.
Note that divers catching lobsters must measure them in the water. If the lobster’s length is under the three-inch minimum, you must release it without leaving the water.
Lobster Fishing Techniques
When it comes to lobster fishing techniques, you can catch them while snorkeling or scuba diving with a hoop net by hand or go out on a boat with a hoop net trap. An experienced Angler can point you in the right direction of where you can find lobsters. You can use sardines as bait in the lobster trap, lowering into the water and then bringing it up every 15 minutes or so to check for lobsters.
There are Lobsters in the Gulf of Mexico, and Boat Stop Marina can Help
So, are there lobsters in the Gulf of Mexico? The simple answer is yes, but finding them on the Texas Gulf Coast can be difficult. If you want to go lobster fishing, you may have to travel out into the Gulf, where the waters are more tropical. Ensure that you follow all of the rules and regulations of lobster fishing. If you have questions or want to discuss lobster fishing, contact us at Boat Stop Marina for the answer you seek. We are here to make your lobster fishing trip a success.
Corpus Christi, the Sparkling City by the Sea, is a boating lover’s dream destination. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or have never been on a boat, Corpus Christi Bay and the Gulf of Mexico have something for everyone. Good boat ramps are important, as these are the access points between the land and the water. Here are some of the best boat ramps in Corpus Christi, TX.
Importance of Good Boat Ramps
Boat ramps in Corpus Christi, TX, and everywhere else are essential for several reasons besides allowing you to launch and retrieve your boat. Let’s look at a few reasons why boat ramps are important.
Safety
Boat ramps are designed to ensure the safety of people and boats. The gradual slope of boat ramps allows the boat trailer to stay submerged until the boat can launch successfully without damage. Many boat ramps also consider people’s safety, with non-slip surfaces and proper lighting.
Emergency Response
Boat ramps allow emergency response teams to enter and exit the water quickly, allowing quicker response times to save more lives.
Environmental Protection
Boat ramps minimize erosion and protect water quality by incorporating sediment traps and filtration systems if appropriately designed.
Social and Recreational Benefits
Boat ramps contribute to people’s overall well-being and enjoyment by providing a place for families to gather for fun activities and relaxation.
1. Boat Stop Marina
Boat Stop Marina is a private marina in the heart of Corpus Christi on Laguna Shores Road.
Features and Amenities
Boat Stop Marina has many features and amenities, making it one of the best Corpus Christi boat ramps. Some of these features include
Ultra-wide 45-foot dual launch boat ramp
On-site boating security 24-hour 4K surveillance
Easy access to the intercoastal waterway
Private marina bathrooms and showers
Family picnic area
They also provide free parking for vehicles and boat trailers and a commercial-grade fish cleaning station for the large fish you haul in.
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
There are at least four bait and tackle shops close to Boat Stop Marina for all your needs, including Roy’s Bait and Tackle, Bait Bucket, Fisherman’s Place, and COS-WAY Fishing Pier Bait and Tackle.
After a long day fishing, the last thing you want to do is cook. That’s where Scuttlebutt’s in Corpus Christi comes in. This restaurant allows you to bring in your cleaned and ready-to-cook catch, and they will cook it for you to eat at their restaurant.
2. Corpus Christi Marina
Corpus Christi Marina is the only major marina in downtown Corpus Christi. Here, you are within walking distance of many restaurants and venues for nightlife fun and entertainment.
Feature and Amenities
Some of the key features and amenities provided by Corpus Christ Marina include a free sanitation pump-out station, private showers and restrooms, laundry facilities, public boat ramps, and more. Corpus Christi Marina also provides wet slips and dry storage facilities for people who need them.
3. Marker 37 Marina LLC
If you want to combine fishing, boating, food, fun events, and live music, Marker 37 Marina in Corpus Christi offers everything you need in one location. Marker 37 offers three private boat ramps, which may require a fee to use. However, you will be protected from the wind and currents. This will help with the easy launch and retrieval of your boat.
Features and Amenities
Marker 37 Marina offers the following features and amenities: chartered fishing trips, professional fish cleaning, live and frozen bait, dock-side high-speed fueling, and more.
4. Packery Channel Boat Ramps
The Packery Channel boat ramps host a four-lane, well-maintained boat ramp with a large paved parking lot. This boat ramp is the closest to the Gulf of Mexico. It is also like a central hub for access to the Upper Laguna Madre and the Intercoast Canal at the opening of Corpus Christi Bay. It is also close to the Texas Sealife Center.
Features and Amenities
The Packery Channel boat ramp features and amenities include family-friendly, wheelchair accessible, piers and docks, picnic area, and more.
Safety Measures at Boat Ramps
It is essential to follow all safety measures at boat ramps at all times. Here are some important safety measures that should be a top priority.
Clear signage and markings: These signs and markings provide important information, such as speed limits, parking regulations, and safety instructions.
Designated waiting areas: Pay attention and use waiting areas to get your boat ready for launch when it is your turn and safe.
Safe access: Safety when entering and exiting your boat is critical. Safety features include non-slip surfaces, stable gangways, stairs, and handrails.
Clear communication: Cell phones or marine radios are essential for a safe boat launch and retrieval.
Other safety measures at boat ramps include proper lighting, on-site facilities, and boat preparation areas.
Tips for Using Corpus Christi Boat Ramps
Launching a boat can be nerve-racking even for seasoned boaters. There are many tips and tricks for using boat ramps, and we will cover a few of them here.
Bring a friend so they can hold the boat rope while you park the car.
Ensure the boat and equipment are ready before launching to avoid backups.
Ensure you apply the parking brake on your vehicle while launching the boat.
Watch for children and make sure everyone is at a safe distance before launching or retrieving the boat.
Do not launch in the middle of a two or more-lane boat ramp. Ensure there is room next to you for another person to launch or retrieve their boat.
You want to ensure you are always polite and considerate to those around you when using boat ramps.
Boat Stop Marina is One of the Best Boat Ramps in Corpus Christi, TX
There are many boat ramp options in Corpus Christi. Using boat ramps in Corpus Christi, TX, can bring a day of fun and relaxation for you and your family. The excitement of fishing and boating is magical, and the memories made last a lifetime. Boat Stop Marina offers many features and amenities to keep your boat and family safe and secure. Contact us for more information on using our boat ramps. We have your back.
Between Corpus Christi Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, there are more than 100 miles of beautiful beaches, ranging from calm waters to some of the most popular surfing destinations. There are jellyfish at Corpus Christi year-round. However, there are times throughout the year when jellyfish are more prominent.
Looking for Jellyfish at Corpus Christi
The rise of warmer weather brings warmer water temperatures and the beginning of jellyfish season. Jellyfish season at Corpus Christi starts in May and continues into October. It is important to be aware that jellyfish season is real so you know how to stay safe and have an enjoyable beach experience.
What Month Are Jellyfish Most Active in Texas?
Although jellyfish season extends from May to October, the peak months when jellyfish are more prominent are August and September, when the water is warmest.
Types of Jellyfish in Corpus Christi
The most common types of jellyfish found around Corpus Christi include:
Stinging Nettle jellyfish: Stinging nettle jellyfish have painful stings, but they are not generally lethal to humans.
Moon Jellyfish: The stings from moon jellyfish bring mild pain, but are generally harmless to humans.
Cabbagehead jellyfish: Stings from these jellyfish are rare and can cause skin and eye irritation. However, the toxin released by this jellyfish can also cause human cardiac problems.
Although the stings of these types of jellyfish are generally harmless, it is best to avoid contact with any kind of jellyfish.
Preparing for a Safe Beach Visit
Consider these factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable beach visit, especially during jellyfish season.
How To Identify Jellyfish Presence
Spotting jellyfish in the water can be difficult, considering they are transparent. However, there are ways to know when jellyfish are present. Seeing jellyfish washed up on shore indicates that jellyfish are still in the water.
Another indicator that jellyfish might be present is the direction of the wind. If the wind is blowing inland, jellyfish are most likely present. Also, keep a lookout for purple flags on lifeguard towers, which indicate jellyfish are there.
How To Avoid Getting Stung
Besides avoiding the water during jellyfish season, there are several steps you can take to avoid being stung by jellyfish. You can wear protective clothing, like a wet suit, while swimming, snorkeling, or diving. Also, before going to the beach, you should check the conditions of the beach you want to visit.
What To Do if Stung by a Jellyfish
If you are stung by a jellyfish, stay calm, get out of the water, and observe any signs of anaphylactic shock. Call 911 immediately if you find it hard to breathe. If no anaphylaxis is apparent, tell a lifeguard about the sting (if one is present) and rinse the area thoroughly with salt water. Do not use fresh water because this can make the sting worse.
Do not rub the area of the sting before, during, or after removing any remaining tentacles with tweezers. Then, use the hottest water you can handle to rinse the area for 20 to 45 minutes. If you go to a doctor, they may prescribe calamine lotion, antihistamines, or over-the-counter pain medications to treat the pain and itchiness of the sting.
Even With Jellyfish at Corpus Christi, the Beach Is a Great Place for Summertime Fun
Yes, there are jellyfish at Corpus Christi. Yes, you can go to the beach during jellyfish season. Do your best to avoid getting stung and have a safe and enjoyable time.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact us at Boat Stop Marina for more information about enjoying Corpus Christi.
Every year, over 10 million visitors make their way to Corpus Christi to explore the beautiful Gulf Coast Capital. Among those visitors are anglers from all over the world who are excited to reel in some of the abundant and diverse fish that live along the coast. With tons of convenient fishing spots, Corpus Christi is a destination for anglers of all experience levels.
If you’re headed out to fish on the Gulf Coast, we’ve put together a complete list of the best bait for fishing in Corpus Christi so you can bring home the catch of the day.
Best Bait for Fishing in Corpus Christi by Fish Type
One of the easiest ways to figure out what bait to use in Corpus Christi is to think about the type of fish you hope to catch. Using bait that has been proven effective for a certain fish will greatly increase your chances of reeling in the fish you want.
To make the process even simpler, we’ve compiled some of the most prominent fish in Corpus Christi and broken them down into 2 categories: saltwater and freshwater fish.
Saltwater Fish
Whether you choose to fish from the pier, the surf, or a charter boat, you can catch many different types of saltwater fish in the ocean around Corpus Christi.
Redfish are one of the most sought-after fish for anglers visiting the Texas Coast. To catch them, use lures such as rattling plugs or various types of fresh bait, including live shrimp or crabs, mullet, and squid.
Next up, we have the famous tuna. Prepare to journey pretty far offshore for these large fish. Local live bait works best for reeling them in, so try out squid, mackerel, anchovies, and other small fish.
You can also catch big, tasty snappers at nearly any time of the year in Corpus Christi. To attract them, you can choose from a variety of baits, including mullet, shrimp, pilchards, and even lures like swimbait.
Freshwater Fish
If saltwater isn’t your scene, you might be more interested in heading to one of the abundant freshwater locations in Corpus Christi.
Both white and largemouth bass make their home in the area, particularly in Lake Corpus Christi. To catch their attention, try using either jigs or bait fish like crawfish, minnows, and shad.
There are also three different types of catfish living in the Corpus Christi waters: blue, channel, and flathead. Most fresh-caught bait, including shad, skipjack herring, and bluegill, will work for these fish.
You can find rather large crappie in freshwater fishing spots as well. To reel them in, many anglers turn to either live minnows or, in some cases, their own handcrafted crappie jigs.
Where To Use the Best Bait for Fishing in Corpus Christi
Now, it’s time to put your knowledge about the best bait for fishing in Corpus Christi into action! The next time you visit, consider docking at Boat Stop Marina, an exclusive private marina located right in the heart of Corpus Christi.
With ultra-wide dual launch ramps and a commercial-grade fish cleaning station, our marina is a safe haven for all anglers. Contact us today to learn how a Boat Stop Marina membership can enhance your next boating adventure!
If you want a beautiful place to sail, look no further than the Gulf of Mexico. Gulf of Mexico sailing brings views of white sand beaches and diverse ecosystems. It is accessible from five U.S. states, Cuba, and parts of Mexico. The Gulf of Mexico offers great deep-sea fishing and boating opportunities.
Gulf of Mexico Sailing: Your Questions Answered
If you plan to sail the Gulf of Mexico, you should plan your trip ahead and ensure your navigation equipment works correctly due to the hazards present. You want to ensure you have the right boat for the journey, map out how long the trip will take, know the key sailing routes, and remember tips for safe travel.
Can You Sail Across the Gulf of Mexico?
The simple answer is that you can sail across the Gulf of Mexico. Depending on where you set sail, you can travel from East to West or West to East. However, there are hazards to be aware of before setting sail.
Traveling East to West
If you are traveling East to West, common departure points include Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. If you choose to stop along the way, there are many places to visit. For example, Pensacola, Florida, offers great fishing and diving or snorkeling opportunities.
Traveling West to East
If you are traveling West to East, the waters are usually oil-patched due to off-shore drilling rigs. As you get closer to Mississippi and Alabama, the oil patches are fewer and farther between. Florida is great to visit on your travels due to the lack of offshore drilling.
Hazards of Sailing the Gulf of Mexico
Before sailing the Gulf of Mexico, be aware of two main hazards: The first is gas and oil rigs. There is an extraordinary number of these rigs throughout the Gulf of Mexico. They are usually well-lit, so you will unlikely sail into one.
The second hazard is the weather. Due to the Gulf of Mexico’s warmer climate, cyclones and hurricanes gain speed and can make the Gulf treacherous. Since the Gulf of Mexico is connected to the Atlantic Ocean, it is important to note the Atlantic Hurricane season before setting sail. Hurricane season for the Atlantic Ocean lasts from June until November.
How Big of a Boat Do You Need To Cross the Gulf of Mexico?
When deciding which size of boat you need to cross the Gulf of Mexico, there are a few things to consider. First, water conditions. Bigger boats tend to be more stable when the weather is bad, or there are waves.
Other considerations include the length of the trip and weather conditions. A 30—to 40-foot boat is suggested for long trips. This size boat will also be more stable in inclement weather.
Boat Recommendations
There are many boats to choose from for sailing the Gulf of Mexico, but here are five we highly recommend:
Grady White Fisherman 216
MasterCraft XT23
Tidewater 210 LXF
Robalo R230
Sea Hunt Gamefish 25
These boats have proven to sail well in the Gulf.
How Long Does It Take To Sail from Texas to Florida?
In good weather, it takes approximately seven to ten days to sail from Houston, Texas, to Florida at a speed of five to seven knots. However, several factors can affect the duration of the trip.
Distance
It is approximately 1,000 nautical miles from Houston to Florida, but the exact distance can vary depending on your starting point.
Weather Conditions
If the weather is good and the wind is on your side, the trip will go much smoother and faster than in unfavorable weather conditions. If adverse weather occurs during your trip, it can slow you down or even make you stop to seek shelter.
Vessel Speed
The speed at which your boat can travel plays a significant role in how quickly you reach your destination. A slower boat will take longer to get somewhere than a faster one.
Crew Experience
Experience and skill level also affect the time it takes to reach your destination. A more experienced crew will know more about handling the boat than an inexperienced crew.
How Deep Does the Gulf of Mexico Get?
The Gulf of Mexico has an average depth of approximately 5,200 feet. However, there are deeper locations, like the Sigsbee Deep, which ranges up to 14,383 feet.
Safety Tips for Sailing the Gulf of Mexico
Many safety tips for boating are common knowledge, and all should be remembered when sailing across the Gulf of Mexico. However, here are some additional safety tips specifically concerning sailing the Gulf of Mexico.
Be aware of weather patterns at all times. Check the weather and tides multiple times before leaving port. This will help you avoid running aground because of shallow water and prevent damage to sea life.
Pay attention to and remember nautical rules. Buoys and other navigational aids are there for safety purposes, for you and wildlife, so always keep a lookout and pay attention to your surroundings.
Always dress in layers even if it is warm on land. The weather can change quickly, and you want to avoid getting cold. Layering also gives added protection against the sun.
Ensure you have a first-aid kit and enough food and other supplies, including safety gear. Double the amount of food and drinks you think you will need. It is better to be prepared than not have enough.
Use common sense and safe docking habits. It is important to go at a safe speed and keep a safe distance from other vessels on the water, especially those with limited movement capabilities. Regarding safe docking habits, go slow to avoid damage or injuries to you or others.
Gulf of Mexico Sailing Is Safe and Fun With the Proper Equipment and Resources
Sailing the Gulf of Mexico can be an exhilarating experience if you plan ahead and keep a weather eye on the horizon. With the proper equipment and resources at your disposal, there is no reason to have a safe and fun trip.
If you have any questions or concerns about your Gulf of Mexico sailing expedition, contact us at Boat Stop Marina. Come dock with us to get your trip off to a great start.
