#6 on this list
Estes Flats, Aransas Pass
Texas, USA
Estes Flats, situated near Aransas Pass, is a legendary spot on the Texas Middle Coast, known for its extensive grass beds and consistent redfish population. This massive flat offers a mix of soft mud, firm sand, and dense grass, providing excellent cover and feeding grounds for redfish, especially during tide changes. Its relative proximity to Port Aransas and Aransas Pass makes it easily accessible for small boats and kayaks, and its varied terrain allows for both poling and wading. Redfish here are often found tailing in the grass or cruising the edges of the numerous channels and potholes. While it can get busy due to its popularity, the sheer size of Estes Flats means there’s usually plenty of room to explore. Best seasons are fall through spring. Anglers should be prepared for varying bottom conditions and have a knack for spotting subtle signs of fish in the grass. Patience and a willingness to explore different depths are key here. **Highlights** * Vast grass flats with excellent redfish habitat * Easy access from Aransas Pass and Port Aransas * Numerous channels and potholes concentrate fish * Good protection from certain wind directions (e.g., strong northers) * Consistent opportunities for tailing and cruising reds **Watch-outs** * Can be heavily pressured, especially on weekends * Softer mud bottoms in some areas can make wading challenging * Propeller scars are visible due to heavy boat traffic * Can get murky with strong winds or rain
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#7 on this list
Contee Lake, Port O'Connor
Texas, USA
Contee Lake, a back lake system reachable from Port O'Connor, is a hidden gem for fly anglers seeking solitude and aggressive redfish. This area is part of a complex marsh network, offering superb wind protection and a nutrient-rich environment. The lake itself is relatively shallow, with a mix of soft mud and scattered shell, surrounded by thick marsh grass. Redfish here are often found in tight schools, aggressively feeding on bait pushed in by the tide. Access is by boat from Port O'Connor, navigating through a series of narrow cuts and channels. Due to its more remote nature, angler pressure is significantly lower than in more open bay systems. Ideal during fall and winter, when the water is clearer and fish are active. Anglers need good shallow-water boat handling skills and an appreciation for wilderness. The tight quarters and aggressive fish make for an exciting, close-quarters sight-casting experience. **Highlights** * Excellent protection from strong winds * Often holds tight schools of aggressive redfish * Remote and less pressured than open bay areas * Ideal for kayak or shallow-draft skiff exploration * Pristine marsh environment with abundant wildlife **Watch-outs** * Challenging navigation through narrow cuts * Soft mud bottoms can be difficult to wade extensively * Mosquitoes and biting flies are prevalent in warm months * Limited area compared to open flats; can be fished out quickly by a single boat
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Estes Flats, Aransas Pass | Contee Lake, Port O'Connor |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Aransas Pass, Texas Middle Coast | Port O'Connor, Texas Middle Coast |
| Target Species | Redfish (Primary), Speckled Trout | — |
| Primary Terrain | Extensive Seagrass Flats, Mud, Sand, Potholes | — |
| Best Seasons | Fall, Winter, Spring | — |
| Access Type | Boat, Skiff, Kayak; Some Wading | — |
| Primary Species | — | Redfish |
| Access | — | Boat only (shallow draft needed) |
| Terrain | — | Shallow lake, marsh grass, mud/shell bottom |
| Avg. Depth | — | 1-3 feet |
| Best Season | — | Fall, Winter |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Estes Flats, Aransas Pass
- Vast, diverse flats provide endless exploration for redfish
- Excellent sight-casting opportunities, especially for tailing reds
- Relatively easy access from major coastal towns with good facilities
- Good protection from certain winds due to island geography
- Consistent population of redfish across seasons
- Can be heavily pressured, particularly on weekends and holidays
- Soft mud bottoms in some areas make wading challenging and murky
- Propeller scars are visible due to heavy boat traffic
- Wind can quickly turn water murky, limiting visibility
Contee Lake, Port O'Connor
- Excellent wind protection in a secluded environment
- High potential for sight-casting to aggressive redfish schools
- Significantly lower angler pressure than open bay systems
- Pristine marsh environment with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities
- Ideal for shallow-draft boats and kayak exploration
- Challenging boat navigation through narrow, shallow cuts
- Soft, muddy bottom limits extensive wading
- Biting insects can be severe in warm weather
- Relatively small fishing area can be impacted by other boats
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