This week’s fishing report from the docks of Deep Sea Headquarters, Port Aransas:

5 hrs trips have brought in Scallop Hammerhead Sharks, Sheepheads and Red Drum.

8 hour trips this week aboard the Pelican with Capt James Wheeler caught North Atlantic Sharpnose Shark, Blacktip Sharks and African Pompano. James DeLarosa from San Antonio, Texas had a nice 27# African Pampano.

24 hr trip on the Gulf Eagle with Capt. Kevin Hallor and Capt Jeff Wilson hauled in 81 Blackfin Tuna, large Amber Jacks, Scamp Groups, Vermillion Snapper, Barracuda and Almaco Jacks. Steve Kessler from Dekalb, IL hauled in a nice 69# Amber Jack and Jonathan Brackley from Katy, Texas had a nice 36# Barracuda.

The Bay trip had a nice catches of Gafftop and Whiting.

Stay tuned next week to see what new catches there may be!

Report by Marsha Walker (DSH)

This week’s fishing report from the docks of Deep Sea Headquarters, Port Aransas:

24 Hr Tuna Trips have been bringing in nice catches of Amber Jack and Blackfin Tuna.

3-6-16 24 Hr aboard the Gulf Eagle with Capt Kevin Haller had a nice catch of Amber Jacks Blackfin Tuna, Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks and Scamp Grouper.

3-6-16 24 Hr On the Pelican with Capt James Wheeler hauled in Blackfin Tuna, Amber Jacks, King Mackeral and Vermillion Snapper.

3-6-16 8 Hr on the Kingfisher with Capt Marvin Horner brought back Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks and a Flounder

3-5-16 12 Hr aboard the Kingfisher with Capt Marvin Horner had a nice catch of King Mackeral, Atlantic Sharpnose Shark, Vermillion Snapper and a 250 # Mako Shark caught by Javier Villanveva from San Antonio, Texas.

3-4-16 8 Hr aboard the Pelican with Capt James Wheeler caught King Mackeral Atlantic Sharpnose Shark, Lane Snapper and a Wahoo.

3-3-16 8 Hr on the Pelican with Capt James Wheeler Atlantic Sharpnose Shark, Vermillion Snapper Cubera Snapper and King Mackeral. Big King Mackeral caught by Dave Heefner from New Braunfels, Texas.

Bays Trips have had nice catches of Gafftops and Whiting.

Private Bay Guides have been bring in nice black and red drum.

Stay tuned next week to see what new catches there may be!

Report By Marsha Walker – DSH

Top 5 things to do on Spring Break in Port Aransas, Texas

Spring vacation is the treat before the season! Usually the weather is fairly warm and mostly sunny, the water warm enough to go for a swim. There are plenty of things to do and go see during Spring Break in Port Aransas. Here’s a list of our top 5 things to do in Port Aransas during spring break, whether you’re with family or chilling with friends! Along with some local tips to enjoy a safe and fun spring break!

1. Go to the beach!

Of course this seems like a no brainer and it is definitely a huge part of spring break! You will see tons and rows of cars lined up to reach the sandy beaches, sometimes with wait times over an hour to get on to the beach! The secret here is to wake up early and get set up! Otherwise you will be fighting the crowds as well as traffic, in search of your perfect beach spring break spot. You never know what Texas will offer as far as weather, so it’s best to bring a light jacket just in case it gets a little too chilly!

2. Learn how to Surf!

The Spring time is usually the best time in Port Aransas for a great spring surf session! The water is usually green and clear while the waves range from small and crumbly to bigger and strong! The BoardHouse of Port Aransas has many rental boards to choose from as well as anything else you may need to ride some waves. The crew at the BoardHouse are the some of the most helpful individuals and would never steer you in the wrong direction when it comes to surfing! There are plenty of places to get lessons around town also. It never hurts to whip out an old school long board but most beginners should start on a “soft topped” board to eliminate any potential injuries! Remember to swim at your own risk and always let someone know that you’re paddling out!

3. Get a Port A T-shirt!

With plenty of gift shops you might not know which has what and the coolest of that! The coolest thing when you’re a kid is to design your own t-shirt, which Destination and the Shark shop will help you do! Pick from so many different designs, colors and shirts to design the perfect memorabilia of your Spring Break Vacation in Port Aransas.

4. Visit the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center

This spot is great for the family and cool to go see! There are so many different species of wildlife, birds and fish you will want to stay just to see what comes out! The viewing platform has a look out with a telescope to view the place at long distances as well as see for miles! There are two known resident gators that hang out here-but don’t let that scare you away! The two have been here for years and are very cool to see in person! There are so many different bird species to see. Definitely bring a camera, sunscreen, and binoculars to enjoy this spot to the fullest. And did we mention this is one of the best places in Port Aransas to watch the sunset!?

5. Get on Board Matee!

Port Aransas is home to the Red Dragon Pirate ship, which features excellent skits and games for the kids. Take a cruise during the day or at sunset and let the pirates entertain you as you travel into the channel. This ship is prepared for the 21 and over crowd also with plenty of yummy cocktails to choose from! Not only are the Pirates entertaining for the kids, adults will love them also. We guarantee you will crack up with their witty remarks and ship styled humor!

We hope you enjoy your 2016 Spring Break Vacation with us here on our beautiful island and are able to enjoy some of our top 5 things to do in Port Aransas during Spring Break!! Remember to stay safe travelling and drink responsibly!

2016 really has a ring doesn’t it? With Valentine’s Day approaching quickly and hearts beating wildly, make sure you give her/him what they want this year. An early spring vacation in February has never broken any hearts and if you’re looking for the thing that will really make your other half smile; a trip to the beach will always be money well spent.

Valentine’s Day is usually filled with romantic evenings and roses so try kicking it up a notch this year! You and your Valentine will never forget the memories made on our relaxing coast and thank each other all year long. Not to mention the weather is predicted to be beautiful and warm.

There are plenty of beautiful and tasty places to dine as well as kick back and relax. We think everyone needs a little relaxation time and your valentine will appreciate that you gave them a dose of sun and fun this year. Use our website to select your dates of arrival and departure to see what properties and units are available to you for this Sweetheart Holiday.

Thankfully for you, we have this Valentine’s Day special going on at our participating rental properties. Refer to the PROMO CODE: LOVE16 to receive a 15% discount on a new reservation between now and February 29th. This offer is valid on new reservations only and only with participating properties. All other reservation policies apply and offer cannot be combined with any other offers.

This week’s fishing report from the docks of Deep Sea Headquarters, Port Aransas:
Our 8 hour trip this week caught North Atlantic Sharpnose Shark and Vermillion Snapper.
2-7-16  12 Hr aboard the Kingfisher with Capt Marvin Horner hauled in a nice catch of Vermillion Snapper, Silk Snapper, Lane Snapper, Scamp, Rock Hind, Atlantic Sharpnose Shark and Amber Jacks
The Bay trip had a nice catches of Whiting.
Stay tuned next week to see what new catches there may be!

This week’s fishing report from the docks of Deep Sea Headquarters, Port Aransas:
Our 8 hour trip this week caught North Atlantic Sharpnose Shark, Vermillion Snapper and Ling.
Mike Balendi from Enid Oklahoma with his Ling caught 1-29-16 aboard the Kingfisher with Capt. Marvin Horner.
24 Hr Trip aboard the Gulf Eagle 1-31-16 with Capt. Kevin Haller and Capt. Jeff Wilson brought in Vermillion Snapper, Amber Jacks and King Mackeral.
24 Hr Trip aboard the Pelican 1-31-16 with Capt. James Wheeler and Capt John McIntyre hauled in a MONSTER MAKO weighing in at 427 #’s with Amber Jack and King Mackeral. Robert Parker from Wimberly, Texas caught the Mako
The Bay trip had a nice catches of Whiting.
Private bay guides have been bringing in Black Drum and Red Fish
Stay tuned next week to see what new catches there may be!

Report By Marsha Walker

This week’s fishing report from the docks of Deep Sea Headquarters, Port Aransas:

Our 8 hour trip this week caught Vermillion Snapper Scamps, Stawberry Grouper and 14.8 lb School Master Snapper – Pending World Record aboard the Pelican with Capt James Wheeler, Pictures and details in next weeks report about the World Record.

Our 12 hr trip hauled in nice Amber Jack, Vermillion Snapper and Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks.

Had 2 – 24 Hr Tuna Trips returned on 1-16-16 aboard the Pelican Rod Reuter from Platteville, WI had a nice catch of Amber Jacks weighing in at 65 # & 70#’s with Capt James Wheeler and Capt John McIntyre, they cought 99 Black Fin, 16 Amber Jacks, 2 Grouper and 5 Vermillion Snapper.

1-16-16 aboard the Gulf Eagle with Capt Keven Hollar and Capt Jeff Wilson hauled in 13 Amber Jack, 28 Black Fin Tuna and 37 King Mackeral.

1-17-16  The Gulf Eagle returns off another 24 hr with Capt Kevin Hollar and Capt Jeff Wilson with 9 Amber Jack, 40 Black Fin Tuna, Gag Grouper and Vermillion Snapper

The Bay trip had a nice catches of Whiting.

Stay tuned next week to see what new catches there may be!

Report by Marsha Walker – DSH

This week’s fishing report from the docks of Deep Sea Headquarters, Port Aransas:

1-23-16 12 Hr aboard the Pelican with Capt. James Wheeler hauled in nice Amberjacks, Vermillion Snapper, Grouper and a 257 lb Mako Shark.  Matt Barber from Port Aransas brought in a impressive 37 lb Amberjack while Brad Cole from Billings Montanta hauled in a massive 257 lb Mako Shark

1-23-16 24 Hr on the Gulf Eagle with Capt. Kevin Hollar and Capt. Jeff Wilson.  Despite a full moon the angulars were able to bring back Black Fin Tuna, LIMITS of Amberjack, Vermillion Snapper and King Mackeral.

The Bay trip had a nice catches of Whiting.

Stay tuned next week to see what new catches there may be!

Report by: Marsha Walker

If you’re visiting for a weekend or maybe even a month in Port Aransas during the Fall, Winter and Spring season you are guaranteed ultimate relaxation! Most people avoid our beaches in these off season months but some would rather avoid the crowds.  There are many things to do in Port Aransas during these times of year and we know some secrets that keep others coming! Depending on the weather, Port Aransas can be a cold a beach town and seemingly desolate. However, for those who do take the time to travel here during these seasons know how beautiful Port Aransas can be! If you’re looking for something to do during these “off-season” months here are the top 10 things to do while in Port Aransas. Each destination has an attached URL for more information.

1.       South Texas Birding

There are several places located around town that you can take your binoculars and cameras for a refreshing nature scene. The most popular is the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center and Charlie’s Pasture. These two locations are remote from the town and offer nature at its quietest and best. Besides these two places, the jetty on the Port Aransas beach that faces the Corpus Christi Ship Channel offers views of not only birds but awesome ships! There are some places on HWY 361 that have entrances off to the bayside. Most of these places require a 4WD vehicle but there are some paved or caliche roads that are maintained by the state.

Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center Website, including directions and other information.

2.       Fisherman’s Wharf Tours/Fishing Cruises

Enjoy a guided Whooping Crane Cruise or a chartered fishing tour aboard the Fisherman’s Wharf infamous Skat Cat and Wharf Cat vessels.

http://wharfcat.com/winter.htm This is the link for the scheduled events of this year’s 2016 season!

3.       The Red Dragon Pirate Cruises

http://reddragonpiratecruises.com/schedule/

This cruise is not just for kids! Adults will love the Pirate show that is put on and will be entertained by the games the kids do play, plus drinks are served on board. Winter cruises are until January 29. Click the link above to see the schedule or call for more information!

4.       Beach Combing

There’s not a website for this because it’s plain and simple! Port Aransas is known for the many shells that wash up on shore from the Gulf of Mexico. From Port Aransas to the Fish Pass Jetties and further south, shells are scattered all over. You can do this anytime of the day and see very interesting shells and animals! The Padre Island National Seashore is further south but always has starfish washed on shore and large shells. Take the time to walk the beaches even if you are wrapped up in sweaters and scarves!

5.       Port Aransas Art Museum

The Art Museum offers many classes throughout the seasons to all levels of artists. If you’re here for a month check it out! You may find you have skills you didn’t even know about.

http://www.portaransasartcenter.org/classes-events/ Click here to the schedule of classes and the information for each one! Some do require supplies but down at the beach, your inner creativeness seems to awaken and your inspiration for art is thriving!

6.       Port Aransas Community Theatre

The PACT is a group of local individuals with a love for the performing arts. Each play is very well practiced and performed, so well that you WILL enjoy it with your company!

http://www.portaransascommunitytheatre.com/ Click here to find show times and ticket information!

7.       Whooping Crane Festival

The Whooping Crane Festival is put on by conservationists of Port Aransas and the Chamber of Commerce/Tourist Bureau. This event is Feb 25-28 of this year with only a $20 registration fee. If you’re a birder, you definitely want to come out and see our official “Snow Birds.”

http://www.whoopingcranefestival.org/

8.       Texas Sandfest

Each year people from all over the world venture to Port Aransas to see the impressive professional sand sculptures that are created on our beach! There are many contestants and extremely creative sculptures! You won’t believe these artists are only using sand and maybe a little glue to make these beautiful and detailed sand creations.

www.texassandfest.org This year’s dates are April 29-May 1st.

9.       Fire it! Ceramics

Love painting and art? Fire it! Ceramics has pieces already formed where you can select your piece and paint it! You don’t get to work the clay at this place but let your inner creator break free as you design the pot, plate, or cup of your imagination!

http://www.fireitceramics.com/index.html

10.   Golfing

Play a round of golf on a professional Arnold Palmer designed golf course! La Palmilla is just off of HWY 361 with gorgeous greens and fairways. The scenery lets you know that you’re still at the beach while you Tee off!

A special place of Port Aransas that is definitely worth the visit at any time of the year is the Port Aransas Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center. This special sanctuary is the home to many migrating birds as well as our local fauna! Believe it or not, there are two alligators that cruise along this special reserve, Boots and Bags. Occasionally you will see them from time to time swimming along the water gracefully or posted up on the shores resting. Very rarely are these fantastic reptiles close to the boardwalk as they are busy searching for another place to sun and rest.

You will see all kinds of animals here in the Birding center. There are so many types of birds that reside here as well as fish and turtles. The water is fairly shallow so you can see most of the trails from the turtles and other birds.

The boardwalk is about roughly a 100 yards with a  top floor viewing deck that allows you to see the entire nature preserve and the bay of Corpus Christi. There are two other viewing decks that allow you to escape from the reality of life and slip into the nature of Port Aransas.

Any time of the year, this birding center is a great place to visit. There are weekly guided nature tours on the boardwalk every Wednesday at 9 am. Make sure you bring your binoculars, mosquito spray, your camera and water!