JoseGrinan's Blog

Angling for some fun fishing?

 

Me too! And, instead of heading down to the Galveston area, I found the fishing and fun down in Rockport a few weeks ago. I made a fishing trip there to hang out with some friends and meet some new ones, too. And, I had a blast.

 

It had been several years since I’d been to the Rockport area. I’m a sucker for a charity fishing tournament. And when the folks at the Cystic Fibrosis Association asked me to emcee their first “Casting for the Cure” fishing tournament, I was honored and accepted the duty for a couple of years. The first year I even won the celebrity division for the largest/longest redfish.

 

In some ways returning to Rockport was one of the most relaxing times I’ve experienced in a while. There is definitely something to be said about being on or near the water, and being able to see it, and hear it, too. There are roads that hug the shore as you move from one part of town to the other. It’s not a long drive. And if you miss being around water like me, it will recharge your batteries. Day or night!

 

But we were here to do some fishing. Those of us participating met some of the fishing guides at a cocktail reception at the Rockport Country Club. It was sponsored by several companies representing fishing related technologies. New underwater lights, lubricants for your fishing gear, new lures, organic insect repellant, sunscreens, a new type fishing canoe (if you can call it that) called a flatstalker, and a device to keep you from getting sabbed or poked by a hook were all on display. Links to the products are included below. Check them out!

 

As for the fishing itself... Unfortunately, a storm rolled in the day before I arrived. And it seemed as though the fish had either gone to deeper water, or they were hiding. So, the fishing was fun. It wasn’t great. But it was fun. I lucked out and was buddied up with some great guys. We all had a great time and shared some gut busting laughter.

 

 

 

Since I work for “Your Gulf Coast Weather Authority” I also wanted to remind the guides that our FOXRAD Stormeseeker Radar provides information online and alerts directly to your cell phone on the weather in your area. Go to www.myfoxhouston.com and go to the weather tab and sign up.

 

 

Now, most of the fishes we caught were small. So we threw them all back in, especially the hardheads (saltwater catfish). We hooked a few reds, and a few trout, too. But everything was small. And, when we caught a keeper, none of us wanted to go back to our hotel with it. So, they too went back in the water.

 

I want to commend, compliment, and thank Captains Rany Filla, of Fill A Bite Guide Service, and George Rose, of No Fish? No Pay! I was impressed by both of them. They were informative about the area and they tried their darndest to find the big fishes for us. But on those two days it was not to be. However, I have to say there have been times I’ve been here and as soon as a baited hook hit the water… you were ready to reel in a catch. So, being the eternal optimist I say there’s always another weekend.

 

 

The City of Rockport has some quaint and comfortable restaurants. And you really don’t have to dress up.

 

There’s the Boiling Pot, sort of a rustic type seafood restaurant where your feast is served on the table… without a plate.

It may sound strange to some of you. But it is a great way to enjoy all of the fixins in an outdoor setting with a whole bunch of friends. Just so you know, they serve the rest of the menu on plates or bowls.

 

The chefs at the Rockport Country Club get raves reviews for the spread they set up for the , sponsors, the captains and their fishermen.

 

 

Another restaurant overlooking some boat docks is Charlotte Plummer’s Seafare The food and service were good. And there’s a new boutique across the street. I can’t remember the name, but it’s a popular spot for ladies looking for something special… whether it’s a bathing suit or a new pair of sandals.

 

Just up the road, you can walk the docks where commercial fishermen tie-up their boats. It’s right outside of a state park that is shaped like a small peninsula surrounded by wetlands, bird sanctuaries, beaches, with a covered pavilion that is used for special events. You can bird watch from the shore or you can take an official bird watching tour… that might include an alligator sighting or two.

 

And just up the road from the park is a small 10 block area of curio and specialty shops. Just park the car and take a stroll. You’re bound to find something you’ll want to take home with you. 

In addition to the nautical related activities, a number of festivals and art shows are held there annually. 

More photos at: http://community.myfoxhouston.com/photos/ViewAlbum.asp
x?aid=33469&un=JoseGrinan

Here are the links to sponsors’ products.

www.luresafetywrap.com , www.flatstalker.com , www.fishinglights.com , www.smartshield.com , www.foreverlast.com , www.fillabite.com , www.corrosionx.com , www.texascoastfishing.com , www.mcsaltwatertackle.com  

 

Here are the links to the City of Rockport and the Rockport-Fulton Area Chamber of Commerce.

http://www.cityofrockport.com/

http://www.rockport-fulton.org/

 

Safe Boating and Big Catches!

And, tell me if you've ever been to the Rockport area?