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Rockport Texas Fishing Pier

Updated: Apr 6, 2023

If you're an angler looking for a great fishing spot, you might want to check out the Rockport Texas Fishing Pier. This pier offers some of the best saltwater fishing in the state of Texas, with a wide variety of fish species available year-round. In this article, we'll provide a complete guide to the Rockport Texas Fishing Pier, including the best time to visit, what fish you can catch, and tips for having a successful fishing trip.


Fishing Pier Rockport
Rockport Texas public Fishing Pier

The Rockport Texas Fishing Pier is a great place to fish. It’s located close to the downtown Rockport, Texas area and has some of the best views in town. You can also enjoy bird watching, sunrises, or just relaxing on this pier. Come out and try it today!


Location of Rockport Texas Fishing Pier

The Rockport Texas Fishing Pier is located at 1298 East Market Street, Rockport, TX 78382. It is situated close to downtown Rockport Texas and has some of the best views in town. You can also enjoy bird watching, sunrises, or just relaxing on this pier. The end of the pier offers a panoramic view of Aransas Bay and Rockport Harbor. The pier is easily accessible by car and has plenty of parking spaces available. The pier is also Handicap accusable.

Directions to the Rockport Fishing Pier


Best Time to Visit

The best time to fish at the Rockport Texas Fishing Pier is any time of year. Just take into consideration that when the water temperature drops, and the fish become more active, making it easier to catch them. Spring and summer months can also be productive, but the heat and humidity can be challenging for anglers.



Rockport Fishing Pier at Night
Rockport Fishing Pier at Night


Fish Species in Rockport Texas Fishing Pier

The Rockport Texas Fishing Pier offers a wide variety of fish species, including Redfish, Black Drum, Speckled Trout, Flounder, Sheepshead, and black drum are the most commonly caught fish at the pier.


Equipment Needed for Fishing at Rockport Texas Fishing Pier

Anglers need to bring their own fishing gear when visiting the Rockport Texas Fishing Pier. Basic equipment includes a fishing rod, reel, line, hooks, sinkers, and bait. Live bait is preferred by many anglers, but artificial lures can also be effective. A fishing license is required for anyone who plans to fish at the pier.


Fishing Techniques for Rockport Texas Fishing Pier

Fishing techniques will vary depending on the species of fish you're targeting. For Redfish and Speckled Trout, live bait such as shrimp, crab, or mullet works well. For Black Drum and Sheepshead, live or dead shrimp or crab is effective. Flounder can be caught using a variety of baits, including live shrimp, mud minnows, or artificial lures. We have also seen people catching fish using artificial lures such as spoons or jigs.


Tips for a Successful Fishing Trip

Here are some tips to make your fishing trip to Rockport Texas Fishing Pier a success:

  • Check the weather forecast before heading out. Avoid fishing during thunderstorms or strong winds.

  • Arrive early in the morning or late in the evening when fish are most active.

  • Use light tackle to make it easier to feel the fish biting.

  • Be patient and persistent. Fishing can be slow at times, but the rewards can be great.

  • Observe the tides and fish during high tide for best results.


Safety Precautions

It is essential to take safety precautions when fishing at Rockport Texas Fishing Pier. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:

  • Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Fishing can be messy, so it's best to wear comfortable clothes and shoes that are not slippery. Waves do splash water onto the pier at times.

  • Use caution when handling fishing equipment and hooks. Sharp hooks can cause injury if not handled properly.

  • Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for other anglers on the pier.

  • Follow all fishing regulations and respect the environment.

Amenities at Rockport Texas Fishing Pier

The Rockport Texas Fishing Pier offers several amenities for anglers, including:

  • Trash Cans

  • Handrails

  • Walking distance to convinence store, downtown bars and restaurants

  • Lighting

  • Ample Parking Spaces


Fishing License and Regulations

A fishing license is required for anyone who plans to fish at the pier. Fishing regulations are in place to protect the environment and ensure sustainable fishing. Anglers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Texas regulations before fishing at the pier.


Nearby Attractions

Rockport Texas Fishing Pier is located near several other popular attractions, including:

  • Downtown Rockport Texas

  • Rockport Beach

  • Rockport Harbor

  • Texas Maritime Museum

  • Bay Education Center

Conclusion

Rockport Texas Fishing Pier is a great spot for anglers looking to catch a variety of saltwater fish. With its convenient location, ample parking, and range of amenities, it's an excellent destination for a day of fishing. Remember to bring your fishing gear, a fishing license, and follow all fishing regulations. Be safe and have fun!


FAQs

  1. Can I rent fishing gear at Rockport Texas Fishing Pier?

  • No, you need to bring your own fishing gear.

  1. Is there a fee to fish at Rockport Texas Fishing Pier?

  • No, there is no fee and the pier is open 24/7 365 days a year

  1. Can I bring my own food and drinks to the pier?

  • Yes, outside food and drinks are allowed. We just ask that you clean up after yourself.

  1. Are there any restrictions on the size or quantity of fish I can catch?

  • Yes, fishing regulations are in place to protect the environment and ensure sustainable fishing. Check the regulations before fishing. Here's a link to the Texas Regulations.

  1. What is the best time to catch Redfish and Speckled Trout at Rockport Texas Fishing Pier?

  • The fall and winter months, from September to February, are the best time to catch Redfish and Speckled Trout at the pier.



Photos of the sites around the pier


Blue Herons love to sit and enjoy the views while looking for their next meal opportunity

Built from rock and concrete, the pier is a popular place to walk and enjoy the fresh gulf air and take in the scenery. From the pier, you have views of water street, Rockport Harbor, and epic sunrises over Aransas bay.

Hunts Castle Hotel and views of Water Street

Magnificent Sunrises can be seen over Aransas Bay

Managers of the Pier

The Rockport Pier is maintained and managed by the Aransas County Navigation District.


Here is what others have to say about the Rockport Pier:


Google review of Rockport Pier by Sandra “Sandye” Gutierrez ★★★★★ “The place is amazing! Its divided into 2 parts. One side is very clam water the other side is toward the gulf. Water is kind of rough depending on how strong the wind is.”

Other fishing piers in the area

Here is our local piers list if you want to check them out as well



We have all your fishing needs covered with bait, tackle, rods, reels, and more at the Rockport Harbor Marina. There are also some great fishing stores in town as well.

Visit RockportFulton.com today!

You may also be interested in visiting the New Fulton Fishing Pier located in Fulton, Texas it’s really nice and has some state-of-the-art LED fishing lights. Here is the link below if you want to check it out!

Rockport Fulton Pier HD

Rockport Fulton Pier shot in HD Fulton Fishing Pier | rockportfulton

As we said Rockport Pier is just one of many great fishing spots in the Rockport, Fulton, and Aransas County area. Check out our Rockport Texas Fishing Piers | Fulton Texas (rockportfulton.com) section to see the other public piers in the area as well.


Be sure to check out our latest Rockport Beach Park Live feed camera where you can see what's happening at the beach anytime 24/7

Rockport Beach

Rockport Beach Park Live feed. Rockport Beach Live Camera | rockportfulton

Here are some helpful links for things around the area


History of Aransas County | Rockport Texas (rockportfulton.com) Have a good look around with our Virtual Tour Technology


Who we are

The RockportFulton.com website is a comprehensive guide to the towns of Rockport and Fulton, Texas. The website provides a wealth of information about the local area, including events, activities, and attractions.



Arial View of the Rockport Texas Waterfront
Rockport Texas USA


Visitors to the website can find information about local festivals, markets, and events, as well as details about local businesses, restaurants, and accommodations. The website also features a calendar of events, so visitors can easily plan their trip and make the most of their time in Rockport and Fulton.


In addition to providing information about the local area.


RockportFulton.com is also a great resource for those who are interested in the history and culture of Rockport and Fulton. The website includes articles and photos that highlight the rich history of the towns and their unique character.


Overall, the RockportFulton.com website is an excellent resource for anyone planning a trip to Rockport and Fulton, or for those who simply want to learn more about these charming coastal towns.



The Town of Fulton Texas at sunset
The Town of Fulton Texas

Here are some additional links to help you explore the area

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Fleming’s Bait Stand in Rockport, Texas

Flemings Bait Stand is one of Rockport Texas’s most famous bait stands, in addition, it is located at the Rockport Harbor Marina. Not only is Fleming’s considered a local icon, but has served the community for many years. Additionally, locals and visitors alike will tell you how great and fresh their bait is.

Not only is the staff super friendly staff but you are sure to find some of the best deals in town. If you need bait or looking for some fresh shrimp or crabs to eat, Fleming’s is the place.

if you're a fishing enthusiast looking for the best spot to cast your line in Rockport, Texas, look no further than Flemings Bait Stand. Flemings Bait Stand is a family-owned and operated business that has been serving the Rockport community for over 15 years. Not only do they offer a wide selection of live bait and fishing equipment, but they also provide expert fishing tips and recommendations for the local area. What Flemings Bait Stand has to offer is why it's a must-visit destination for any angler in Rockport.


Types of bait and fishing equipment available

Flemings Bait Stand has a wide variety of live bait, shrimp, bait fish, and crabs, as well as frozen bait such as squid and mullet. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, you'll find everything you need to have a successful fishing trip at Flemings Bait Stand.


Fishing tips and recommendations for Rockport

The staff at Flemings Bait Stand are all experienced anglers who know the local waters like the back of their hand. They are more than happy to provide fishing tips and recommendations for the best spots in the area. They can also provide information on local fishing regulations and answer any questions you may have about fishing in Rockport.


Stop by the Shop

If you're planning a fishing trip to Rockport, Texas, be sure to stop by Flemings Bait Stand. With a wide variety of baits, and expert advice, they have everything you need to make your trip a success. So, make sure to stop by Flemings Bait Stand the next time you're in Rockport and see for yourself why it's the go-to spot for fishing in the area.


Location and hours of operation

Flemings Bait Stand is located at 701 S Austin St, Rockport, Texas 78382. They are open 7 days a week from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm.


Map of how to get to Flemings Bait Stand Rockport




You can also call them ahead of time and make sure they got what you need at Phone: (361) 441-9221


Additional Information about Flemings


If you’re interested to find out more about bait stands in Rockport tx, you need to visit our bait stands page at Rockport Fulton Texas Blog | RockportFulton.com

So you wish to know more about Flemings bait stand here are some other interesting things about it.

Flemings is so famous that artists have even used it for their priceless works of art.


See Flemings Bait Stand Large Gallery Print!


Flemings Bait by Jerry Hill

Flemings Bait Stand Painting




Flaming’s by Brian Grunberger

You can buy these works of art having to do with Flemings Bait Stand.


Take a good look around the Rockport Harbor



Here are some additional helpful links you may find helpful while exploring the Rockport Texas area:


Who we are

The RockportFulton.com website is a comprehensive guide to the towns of Rockport and Fulton, Texas. The website provides a wealth of information about the local area, including events, activities, and attractions.



Arial View of the Rockport Texas Waterfront
Rockport Texas USA


Visitors to the website can find information about local festivals, markets, and events, as well as details about local businesses, restaurants, and accommodations. The website also features a calendar of events, so visitors can easily plan their trip and make the most of their time in Rockport and Fulton.


In addition to providing information about the local area.


RockportFulton.com is also a great resource for those who are interested in the history and culture of Rockport and Fulton. The website includes articles and photos that highlight the rich history of the towns and their unique character.


Overall, the RockportFulton.com website is an excellent resource for anyone planning a trip to Rockport and Fulton, or for those who simply want to learn more about these charming coastal towns.



The Town of Fulton Texas at sunset
The Town of Fulton Texas

Here are some additional links to help you explore the area

Thank you for visiting our page: Check out our new shop:






We hope you found this page both interesting and informative. Use RockportFulton.com as your personal local guide to everything in the Rockport, Texas, and Aransas County area. We hope you remember us and come back and browse the many topics and areas of interest found on our page.

Please visit us on Facebook at https://facebook.com/rockportfulton or on Instagram at Instagram/com/rockportfulton1




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The Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas

Updated: Jan 17, 2023


Rockport Texas. has always been known for its great fishing, coastal climate, bird watching, and world-class beaches.  It is also famous for its large iconic Big Blue Crab structures that have watched over its shorelines for the last few decades. This article will explain its history and all about the current structure today. 

Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas
Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas

History of the Big Blue Crab of Rockport, Texas

The famous big blue crab has been a popular tourist attraction in Aransas County since 1957. It all started when Sal Silverman, who owned the Del Mar Grill restaurant with his wife Dorothy, had an idea to build something eye-catching on top of it. They both wanted to create something special that would attract people to the restaurant and give them the edge over other restaurants nearby. Dorothy used locally caught blue crabs to make her signature delicious crab cakes. Not only would people come from far and wide seeking out this legendary dish, but people would stop by just to get a picture taken with the famous giant blue crab.

Original Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas

The crab was 18 X 25 feet wide and 25 feet deep from claw to fin. A company in Houston, which built floats for parades, had it constructed from rebar, fiberglass, chicken wire, and Paper Mache. In 1965, the Grill closed. The next year, the crab was purchased by the Chamber of Commerce to be used in parades and displays to promote the Rockport area. In October 1966, the crab was moved to Navigation Park, which is now Veterans Memorial Park. In 1969, a retired painter from Indiana, Ed Warner, repainted the crab. Tourists and locals loved to have their photographs taken in front of the crab.

Original Big Blue Crab of Rockport, Texas

The Original Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas

The first big crab was finally damaged beyond repair.

The crab survived Hurricane Beulah in 1967 and Hurricane Celia in 1970. But eventually, time took its toll and the crab deteriorated. It was removed and later buried out by Palm Harbor. In the summer of 2004, a committee was formed to “Bring Back the Big Blue Crab.” Money was raised at area events by selling crab-themed merchandise.






There have been talks about having this original crab dug up and having a team of archeologists try and gather some information about the dimensions and colors to have a new one rebuilt as well.

Big Blue Crab #2 was Created

Big Blue Crab # 2 of Rockport Texas

In 2012, local artist David Allgood worked day and night on building a new crab. That August, the crab was installed on Little Bay to the west of the Beach entrance. The crab was one foot bigger than the original one which sat on top of the Del Mar Grill. Folks could once again have their photo taken in front of this famous Rockport icon.

David Allgood With the Big Blue Crab #2 Claws

Assembly of Crab #2 in Rockport Texas

Big Blue Crab #2 of Rockport, Texas

The Iconic structure was huge! People would travel to the area just to look at the crab and to take its picture. Many say this was the greatest of the 3 crabs. 

Crab #2 Destroyed by Hurricane Harvey

Everything in Rockport was thriving and going well for the crab until August 2017 when the area was hit by a devastating category 4 hurricane. Its eyewall went right over Rockport bringing winds well over 150mph. The Great Big Blue Crab could not sustain the force. 

Hurricane Harvey Destroys the Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas

The next morning when officials were out assessing the damage this image emerged and everyone knew that the Great Giant Blue Crab was damaged beyond repair. 


Crab #2 Destroyed by Hurricane Harvey

Damaged Big Blue Crab #2 of Rockport Texas

Big Blue Crab #3 begins.

As the community got well on its way to restoring and cleaning up the damage left from the storm a group was formed and begin plans to have a new Crab Built and set in the place of the old one. The new Crab would need to be built to be able to withstand not only the ravages of time but also to sustain any future storms that may impact the area. Proposals for artists were sent out and a renowned artist named Joe Barrington was selected for the project. 


Joe Barrington artist for the Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas

In November 2017, Winery on the Bay held a fundraiser and silent auction to raise funds for crab #3. About $5,000 was raised at this event. More money was raised selling T-shirts and Crab Merchandise at the Winery. Don Adoff and many others have spearheaded the efforts. Fabrication Began. 

Joe Barrington Working on the Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas Underbelly

Joe Barrington working on the crab structure for Rockport Texas

Joe Barrington welding out the crab Claws for the big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas

The crab arrived in Aransas County on Tuesday, July 27th and installation began on July 28th, 2021. There still needs to be work on the brickwork and the landscaping phase. The world will be able to enjoy the crab from now on. Aransas County residents and all of our visitors miss the crab. The Big Blue Crab will be the centerpiece of our waterfront development. It’s going to be an amazing place for people to come and enjoy themselves

Check out the Video of the Crab's Arrival


The Rockport Fulton big blue crab has finally been installed and completed! The project took 4 years to complete, spanning a concerted effort of many dedicated volunteers. Joe Barrington is the award-winning artist that designed this new landmark sculpture lovingly called “The Big Blue Crab.”

The New crab weighs around 6000 pounds, is made of stainless steel, and has a powder coat that is designed to last for at least 10 years. 

The landmark sculpture stands at a towering height and symbolizes protection for all those who visit.

The Leadership of Keep Aransas County Beautiful, The Aransas County Navigation District, The City of Rockport, Aransas County, and all of those who kept hope alive after Hurricane Harvey. The Big Blue Crab will be a pillar of your love for our community and the people who love RockportFulton.

We would like to recognize the dedicated leaders who brought this project to life. 

the wonderful artist Joe Barrington for taking on this project along with Debbie Hirsch Parker, Rosemary White, Neli Spurrell, Don Aboff, John Aquilino, D’Ann Janysek Williams, Judy Sutterfield, Amanda Sutterfield Wilson, Donna Gregory, Mary Brydon Aquilino, Mark Waters, Malcolm Dieckow, Kerry Mauch Goodall, Sue Bonnar, and Diana Harrington.

Big Blue Crab #3 of Rockport Texas

The restoration efforts continue today

The Big Blue Crab #3 structure is now finished. The sponsor's bricks have been installed. Benches have also been added along with a plaque showing the crab's history as well as some local oyster shells under the new crab.


This big blue crab is located between the Rockport Harbor Festival Grounds and the Little Bay Shoreline about 1 min walking distance of the Rockport Beach Park entrance in Rockport, Texas

Here are the directions for the Big Blue Crab Structure



Thank you for reading. We hope you found it insightful and enjoyable to learn about the Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas. Please be sure to visit our Home page RockportFulton.com for more stories and information

Large Print of the big blue crab of rockport texasCrabs
Large Prints available of the different Crabs


Who we are

The RockportFulton.com website is a comprehensive guide to the towns of Rockport and Fulton, Texas. The website provides a wealth of information about the local area, including events, activities, and attractions.



Arial View of the Rockport Texas Waterfront
Rockport Texas USA


Visitors to the website can find information about local festivals, markets, and events, as well as details about local businesses, restaurants, and accommodations. The website also features a calendar of events, so visitors can easily plan their trip and make the most of their time in Rockport and Fulton.


In addition to providing information about the local area.


RockportFulton.com is also a great resource for those who are interested in the history and culture of Rockport and Fulton. The website includes articles and photos that highlight the rich history of the towns and their unique character.


Overall, the RockportFulton.com website is an excellent resource for anyone planning a trip to Rockport and Fulton, or for those who simply want to learn more about these charming coastal towns.



The Town of Fulton Texas at sunset
The Town of Fulton Texas

Here are some additional links to help you explore the area











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