Aransas Pass, Laguna Madre to Rockport Guided Fishing Trips, Nature Watching, Wade Fishing and more.

Inshore Guided Fishing Trips (832) 953-8689

Book Now

Aransas Pass, Laguna Madre to Rockport Guided Fishing Trips, Nature Watching, Wade Fishing and more.

Inshore Guided Fishing Trips (832) 953-8689

Book Now

About Shoal Commander Guided Trips

Experience the Best Inshore Fishing in the Aransas Pass area.

With over 40 years of fishing, hunting, and outdoor experience, Captain Steve knows all the best spots and techniques to catch a variety of fish species, including Redfish, Sea Trout, Flounder, and more. We provide high-quality equipment and personalized instruction to ensure a successful and enjoyable fishing trip. We encourage conserva

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Family-Friendly Fishing Adventures

Experience the Best Inshore Fishing in the Aransas Pass area.

We welcome anglers of all ages and skill levels, and Captain Steve takes pride in creating a fun and safe environment for families to enjoy a day on the water together. We are patient and knowledgeable, and always happy to help kids learn the basics of fishing. Your first trip? No problem! Captain Steve will have you catching fish in no time!

Explore the Texas Inshore lakes, bays and flats from a 22' Boatright Marine Custom Classic. Truly the "Jeep" of Bay Boats

Not only is fishing a thrilling activity, but it also provides an opportunity to take in the stunning natural scenery of the area. Experience numerous species of migratory birds, fish, and other wildlife. Don't be surprised if a dolphin or two come alongside to visit. Want to haul your kayak to the outer lakes? No problem! I can take two

Prefer to wade fish? I can take you to some nice sandy beaches that are great for wading.

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Guided Trip Price List

Guided Inshore Fishing Trip

Children Under 18 years of age FREE with parent/guardian. Two children per trip max. Three total fisherman max per trip from the boat, mix of children and adults. Adults are considered 18 years of age or older. One to two fisherman is ideal but, 3 can be fished safely with proper care. Prices include wade fishing trips. I can take a max of 4 fisherman for wade trips. If cold weather dictates, you must provide your own waders, boots, and wading belt. Life jackets encouraged,

One Adult Fisherman

$240

4-6 Hours depending on customers desires and Weather conditions.

Two Adult Fisherman

$340

4-6 Hours depending on customers desires and Weather conditions.

Three Adult Fisherman

$440

4-6 Hours depending on customers desires and Weather conditions.

Fishing with Live Bait Fee

TBD

Actual cost (plus 3% processing fee) of live bait on day of trip. Usually the best option for kids or first timers. Price per trip.

Kayak Mother Shipping

Children Under 18 years of age FREE with parent/guardian. Two Kayaks, two fisherman max per trip. I will transport your kayak, you and your gear to the area bays, islands, lakes, and flats within a 20 mile radius of the launch site. Two kayaks in the 13' range fit on the boat securely. Not responsible for dings or scratches though, usually not an issue. You probably don't want to bring your brand new Hobie Pro Angler.

One Adult Fisherman & Kayak

$240

4-6 Hours depending on customers desires and Weather conditions.

Two Adult Fisherman & 2 Kayaks

$390

4-6 Hours depending on customers desires and Weather conditions.

Signed Waivers Required for all Trips

Contact Us

Can't wait to go fishing with you!

Have a question or a story to share? Send us a message and we'll get back to you soon.

Shoal Commander.LLC

426 East Ransom Rd, Aransas Pass, TX 78336

Call: (832) 953-8689 The Captain's Cell Email: steven@shoalcommander.net Captain Steve will get back to you ASAP.

Hours

Today

By Appointment

Closed Major Holidays

Frequently Asked Questions and Company Policy

Please contact us at if you cannot find an answer to your question. I am certain that we can work out a plan to meet your needs and desires.

What is Shoal Commander?

Shoal Commander is a Licensed Fishing Guide service that provides guided fishing tours and other boating services to Aransas Pass, TX and surrounding areas.
Shoal Commander is a Limited Liability Company registered with the Texas Secretary of State.
We specialize in getting to the "skinny water" where others can't go. There you can "spot and stalk" tailing Redfish and more.
Safety is of the utmost priority followed by a fun and successful trip.

What is the Captain's Background & Experience Level?

Captain Steven Cox holds a USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (OUPV Boat Captain) License and Texas Parks and Wildlife All Water Guide License. Captain Cox is a 20 year Veteran of the United States Navy and a retired airline pilot. His life travels have taken him throughout most of the globe. He has fished and hunted from Coast to Coast, including Alaska. He started his fishing addiction at age 8 when he began bass fishing with his father. Previously guiding out of Port O' Connor, TX, Captain Cox has now moved his home port to Aransas Pass, TX.

Does Shoal Commander Offer Lodging?

We do not offer lodging. There are multiple hotels and motels in all price ranges in and around Aransas Pass that are available. If you can not find what you are looking for through the normal booking agencies or simple web search, contact Captain Steve for recommendations. Also, there are many RV parks throughout the area if you would like to bring your RV and stay a while.

Do Chartered Trips Operate in All Weather Conditions?

Severe Weather Conditions will be grounds for cancellation and refund of all payment and fees. In lieu of a refund, clients may also opt to reschedule.
Severe weather includes "Small Craft Advisories" "Gail Force Watches/Warnings" or above issued by the National Weather Service. These are all reasons for cancellation.
Anytime Weather Radar indicates active thunderstorms and lightning within a 5 mile radius of the planned boating/fishing area is grounds for cancellation with full refund. An option to "wait out the weather" always exists. Other options are refund or reschedule.
Anytime the reported sustained wind speed is in excess of 25 MPH. The trip may be canceled at the Captain's discretion. A full refund will be issued.
Light rains and winds of less than 25 MPH are generally not grounds for cancelation. Dress accordingly. The Captain is skilled at finding smooth water and wind protected shores.
For best results in summer months, be prepared to leave the dock before sunrise. In the winter, the best bite is usually occurs during mid day during the warmer part of the day.

What is Shoal Commanders Refund Policy?

Payment is due at time of booking.
Refunds will be issued upon cancellation request when made at least 3 days ahead of departure date. A $25 service fee will be retained.
Full refunds will be issued at anytime severe weather has forced a cancellation.
A $100 non refundable deposit will be retained by Shoal Commander when cancellations are made within 3 days of departure date, not withstanding weather cancellations.

What Other Services Not Listed do You Offer?

Let me know of your wants and needs. I will always try to accommodate.
Dog Training Trips. Bring your Lab or other retriever along for some real life, on the water training! Bring all his/her training aids. The Captain will make sure the bottom is free of oyster beds and other hazards to the dog. Fee is the same as for a general boating trip. You must be able to control your dog. A covered kennel is encouraged for hot days to allow your dog to get out of the sun and for safety while underway.
Fly Fishing: Although the Shoal Commander is not a dedicated polling skiff, I do carry a pole and it can be poled for limited distances. I can drift for unlimited distances. Of course, you can wade and fly fish. Contact me for recommended equipment. I have two 9# weight, 9 foot fly rods that can be rigged upon request. The wind can be an issue but, I will try my best to get you out of the wind. The large flattop deck of the Shoal Commander is suitable for gathering fly line. If you are interested in learning to fly fish, I will be happy to teach you.

Why Does Shoal Commander Charge to Clean/Fillet My Fish?

We offer this optional service so the customer has the opportunity to save on the overall cost of a guided trip. It also allows the CPR fisherman not to incur added cost for services not utilized. Most guides include this service in their overall cost.
Fish cleaning and filleting service is offered at $5 per fish.
Fillets will be packed on ice in Zip Lock bags.
You will need an ice chest to transport your fish if it is not to be consumed immediately.
Most of the boat docks we use have fish cleaning stations. The Captain is happy to teach you how to clean and fillet fish.

What Safety Practices are in Place? (note warning)

Wearing a USCG approved life jacket that will turn an unconscious person's face clear of the water is the single best safety practice. Approved floatation for every passenger is required to be on board and accessible at all times. You will notice the Captain wearing his life jacket when the boat is on plane and moving at higher speeds.
Shoal Commander has installed a Marine Radio with Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) that links to the onboard GPS Chart Plotter. This system sends position and identification information to the Coast Guard. A simple push of the MAYDAY button or a "PAN PAN" or "MAYDAY" call over channel 16 will ensure help is on the way ASAP, even when out of cell phone range. Help could include rescue from boat or Life Flight. In addition, we utilize a modern chart plotter with updated navigation programs installed for safe navigation of the coastal waterways.
USCG Required Equipment for boating/fishing charters: In addition to flotation devices for all occupants, a fire extinguisher, parachute flares, medical kit and, adequate signaling devices (lights, whistles, horns) will be available at all times. All occupants will be briefed on the location and usage or these devices.
The Captain is Red Cross OSHA trained and certified in First Aid and CPR.
Sun Overexposure: The Texas Coastal sun is very hot and powerful. You will notice in every picture, Captain Steve is wearing sun protective clothing. Any exposed bare skin areas should be coated with sunblock. Protect your children. If you plan on sunbathing, it is recommended you limit your exposure time to less than normal. Everyone knows that a bad sunburn can ruin a vacation.
Hypothermia: In cooler/colder winter months, hypothermia onset can be sudden. Being wet and wind blown for extended periods of time can cause hypothermia in temperatures as warm a 60F. It is a good idea to bring a change of clothes in a dry bag in cold weather and, of course, dress appropriately. The Captain will have a space blanket aboard as well.
WARNING: Just like a car, truck, aircraft, motorcycle, UTV or, any other moving vehicle or vessel, the danger of collision does exist. Not all boaters are as careful and experienced as Captain Steve. Though the risk of injury is very very low, it does exist. Some fish have sharp teeth, stingers, barbs and, sharp fins. Fishhooks are sharp and painful. Sharp knives will be in use on the boat. For these reasons, all clients will be required to sign a "Hold Harmless Agreement". (See Waiver PDF at last page of website)
At the Captain's discretion, a charter trip may be terminated at anytime he deems that a person is conducting him or herself in an unsafe manner so as to endanger himself or others.
Use of alcohol: The use of alcohol is discouraged but not prohibited. You can get plastered anytime and anywhere. You can only do this type of outdoor activity here and now. It would be a shame to ruin it with overindulgence. If at anytime the Captain feels that a person is intoxicated to the point of becoming a danger to himself or others, the trip will be immediately terminated. Boating Under the Influence (BUI) laws are similar to Texas DUI laws. The Captain or, any other boat operator may not consume alcohol while underway. See you at the bar later!

Is There a Bathroom/Head Onboard the Shoal Commander?

Yes and No. Ahhh the 800 pound gorilla in the room. In order of priority:

For emergency potty needs: there will be a small camping style toilet onboard the boat. Also, there will be a sanitation kit including, soap, hand sanitizer, baby wipes, toilet paper, and medical gloves. Other passengers will be directed to the bow and you can take privacy behind the ship's island.
For less urgent needs: The Captain can beach the boat in an area with bushes, trees and, other cover for privacy. Protocol is to dig a hole and cover all human waste. You will be given a small shovel and the sanitation kit.
If a passenger so choses: The Captain will take them to the nearest boat dock that has a working restroom. Make sure you don't wait too long!

Of course, most guys are just going to pee over the side. Please be respectful of the ladies onboard. That is all.

What types of fish can I catch with Shoal Commander?

Common species caught along the Texas Coast and adjoining waterways are Redfish, Speckled Sea Trout, Flounder, Black Drum, Sheep Head, Triple Tail, Jack Crevalle, Catfish Skip Jack and, more.
If the sea state is calm and we can make it out to the open water around the jetties, you could catch anything from Mackerel to Tarpon.
We will mostly target Redfish, Trout and, Flounder due to their abundance but, most every trip can hold a surprise.

What equipment do I need for a Shoal Commander fishing tour?

We provide all the necessary equipment for our fishing tours, including fishing rods, reels, bait, and other gear. However, if you prefer to bring your own equipment, you are welcome to do so.
Fishing with live bait is an additional charge. Client will pay actual cost of bait on day of trip. Again, this keeps the cost down for those who prefer to fish with artificial bait.
Please make sure you have a valid Texas Fishing License with a Saltwater Endorsement. It is not uncommon for a Game Warden to conduct checks at the docks and on the water. Bag and daily possession limits will be strictly enforced.
An ice chest with ice and drinking water will be provided. Food provided upon request for a small fee or, bring your own.
Texas Parks and Wildlife has a great Outdoor Annual App containing all rules, regs and laws.
Always dress in clothing appropriate for the weather conditions. It stinks being wet and cold on a trip.

What Type of Fishing is Done From the Boat?

A variety of fishing styles are possible from the boat. Depending on the season (water temp). We will target the fish in areas where they are holding and feeding.
The Captain's favorite style of fishing is to set up a drift on the upwind side of a bay and throw soft plastics and other artificial lures. This is a quiet, stealthy approach and larger, more wary fish can be taken this way.
Some channels, canals and, deeper cuts may be approached using the trolling motor and fished the same way.
Finding a school of fish holding in deep water, or around structures may call for anchoring nearby.
On request, the Captain can set up live bait rigs for kids, inexperienced fisherman or, if you just prefer to fish with live bait. See Live Bait fee.
Keep in mind, on many occasions, I have limited out before other fisherman have returned from the bait shop or netted their live bait. In short, we will adapt to whatever the situation and conditions call for.
If you are an experienced fisherman and need little help, the Captain may fish alongside you. This keeps more bait in the water and will help learn "where the bite is". The Captain's catch will not count toward the clients legal limit unless so requested. The primary goal is for the client to catch fish.

How Does Wade Fishing Work? (see caution)

Wade fishing is one of the stealthiest and most fun ways to stalk fish on the salt water flats. Some guides only teach wade fishing. Here are the pros and cons according to Captain Cox:

Pros:

Quiet and stealthy. Even waves hitting the hull of the boat on a drift can alert the biggest most wary fish. A scared fish will not feed.
It is exciting and gets you right down into the action. I have seen an untold number of species swim within sight while wading.
Good exercise. Keeps you moving and loose.
Getting in the water on hot summer days has a little bit of a cooling effect.

Cons:

You can't cover as much water as drifting or trolling.
The bottom needs to be firm. I have sunk up to my knees in soft mud and lost a few boots.
Wading can be tiring. You need to be in pretty good shape to wade for extended periods. My lower back starts to ache after about 2 hours of wading. A good wading belt with a back pad helps a lot.
It is cold in the winter time. Good waders and boots are a must.
It can be dangerous. See caution below.

Please arrive with appropriate gear and clothing. If it is winter time, you will need properly insulated waders, boots, and a wading belt.
CAUTION: I highly recommend that you wear an USCG approved life jacket anytime wearing waders. Multiple fisherman drown every year along our nation's coastline because they stepped off in a deep hole or fell off the boat and topped their waders. Be sure of your next step. Waders, when filled with water, act like an anchor and drag you under. Cinching a belt around the middle of the waders slows the intake of water but, the only sure way to keep your head above water is to wear a life jacket. Practice getting out of your waders and boots quickly. The Captain will attempt to take you to a firm bottom area that is suitable for wading but, you can step off into soft mud or a deep hole at any time.
Avoid wading more than waist deep. It is harder to fish if you are up to your chest in water.
For wading in hot/warm weather, a good pair of wading boots that won't pull off in the mud is essential. Fishing pants made of synthetic material dry faster and keep you more comfortable. Long pants also help protect from jelly fish sting.
Move slowly and shuffle your feet to move stingrays away from your legs, Stingray guards are a smart choice. Waders alone will not protect you from stingrays.
It is not recommended to keep fish on a stringer while wading. That will attract sharks - enough said there. If you want to keep your catch on a stringer, I recommend staking it to the shore or other structure if possible.
The Captain will keep wading fisherman in sight and tend to re-rigging and bait refreshing. A wading belt with pockets, a rod holder and, compartments to stow extra bait is a good investment.

How does Kayak Mother Shipping Work (see note)?

The advantage of a kayak is navigating ultra shallow water. They are also very stealthy.
You show up at the dock with your kayak, we load and secure it to the boat deck before launch. It is relatively easy to launch and recover kayaks from my boat.
The Captain will take you to some lakes, channels, flats or, other areas you may be interested in fishing or recommend a spot for you to try.
It is a good idea to keep sight of the Mother Ship as the marsh can become a confusing maze. Audible whistle and horn signals will be worked out ahead of time. Use of any GPS device or enabled phone is encouraged.
Any kayak fisherman knows that wind can be a major issue. The Captain will make every effort to drop you off on wind protected shorelines. It is best if your kayak is equipped with a stake out pole and, a conventional anchor. This will better allow you to better stay in position in areas holding fish that are windy. Trying to stay in position with out anchoring devices is very tiring.
Light paddle type fishing kayaks are best for this application. Large, heavy pedal types such as the Hobie Pro Angler, may present a problem. Make sure your kayak is designed for Inshore Saltwater Fishing.
NOTE: It is much more likely that gear can be lost from a kayak. Best to bring your own rod and reel in this situation or you will be required to sign a replacement waiver for using our rods and reels. Use rod leashes and bring it all back and all is good. Your choice here.

Do You Offer Duck Hunting Trips?

I am going to try to be up and running for guided duck hunting trips by the 2024 Duck Hunting Season.
Details yet to be determined.

How Can I Learn More About Texas Inshore Fishing?

Shoal Commander is in no way affiliated with nor, sponsored by the below listed organizations but, Captain Steve is a member of both.

Texas Saltwater Fishing Magazine. I read it front to back every month. Real time fishing experience from other guides and anglers across the Texas Coast.
SaltStrong.com. Fishing tips and courses. Members get discounts on gear and tackle. I get most of my tackle from SaltStrong.
Of course there are many other sources out there on the internet. Just do some searching.
Just go fishing. Go with a guide or other experienced friends. You will learn something on every trip. I alway do.

Why Are You Closed on Sundays?

The Captain is active in his local Church and does not work on Sunday.
Guided trips are much more fun during the week when crowds are light and fish are less pressured.
See you in Church!

Inshore Guided Fishing Trips (832) 953-8689

Inshore Guided Fishing Trips (832) 953-8689

About Shoal Commander Guided Trips

Experience the Best Inshore Fishing in the Aransas Pass area.

Experience the Best Inshore Fishing in the Aransas Pass area.

Family-Friendly Fishing Adventures

Experience the Best Inshore Fishing in the Aransas Pass area.

Explore the Texas Inshore lakes, bays and flats from a 22' Boatright Marine Custom Classic. Truly the "Jeep" of Bay Boats

Explore the Texas Inshore lakes, bays and flats from a 22' Boatright Marine Custom Classic. Truly the "Jeep" of Bay Boats

Video

Guided Trip Price List

Guided Inshore Fishing Trip

One Adult Fisherman

Two Adult Fisherman

Three Adult Fisherman

Fishing with Live Bait Fee

Kayak Mother Shipping

One Adult Fisherman & Kayak

Two Adult Fisherman & 2 Kayaks

Sight Seeing and Nature Watching Trips

First Adult Boater

Each Additional Adult Boater

Fish Cleaning Service

Per Fish

(Trips must be paid in advance, waivers signed)

Payment Options

Contact Us

Can't wait to go fishing with you!

Shoal Commander.LLC

Hours

Drop us a line!

Frequently Asked Questions and Company Policy

The Catch of a Lifetime: Shoal Commander's Fishing Gallery

Waiver and Hold Harmless Agreement