Port Aransas Shark Fishing Adventures
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Landbased shark fishing charter in Port Aransas Gulf watersChoose between 4 to 8hour private fishing tripsExpert guides provided for groups up to 8 guests
Looking for some serious action on the Texas coast? Just Doin It Shark Fishing Charter delivers exactly what you're hoping for – a legitimate shot at some of the Gulf's most sought-after predators. Based out of Port Aransas, we run land-based shark fishing trips that put you right in the mix with bonnetheads, blacktips, tigers, lemons, and bulls. Whether you've got four hours or want to make it a full eight-hour day, you'll be working prime waters where these apex predators cruise the nearshore breaks and channels. Our crews know these waters like the back of their hands, and with space for up to eight anglers, it's perfect for families, buddy trips, or anyone wanting to test their skills against some of the Gulf's toughest fighters.
Port Aransas sits right where the action happens – deep channels, shallow flats, and structure that draws baitfish by the thousands. That means sharks, and lots of them. We're talking about land-based fishing here, which gives you a totally different experience than boat charters. You'll be positioned at prime spots along the shoreline where the drop-offs and current breaks create natural feeding zones. The beauty of land-based shark fishing is the intimacy – you feel every bump, every run, every headshake through your rod without the distraction of engine noise or deck movement. Our guides will have you set up with the right tackle and bait before the sharks start their evening patrol, and trust me, when that drag starts screaming, you'll know why anglers travel from all over Texas just for this experience. The Gulf waters here stay productive year-round, but spring through fall offers the most consistent action as water temperatures climb and baitfish migrations peak.
Shark fishing from shore requires a different approach than your typical bay fishing setup. We're talking heavy conventional reels spooled with 50-80lb braided line, matched to stout rods that can handle the punishment these fish dish out. Circle hooks are mandatory – they're safer for both you and the sharks, plus they dramatically improve your hookup ratio. Bait selection makes or breaks your day, and we'll have you rigged with fresh-cut mullet, stingray wings, or whatever's been producing lately. The key is getting your baits out beyond the first sandbar where the bigger predators patrol. We use heavy pyramid sinkers to punch through the surf and keep your presentation in the strike zone. Wire leaders are essential – these fish have sandpaper skin and razor-sharp teeth that'll slice through mono like butter. Patience plays a huge role here too. Unlike bay fishing where you might get instant gratification, shark fishing is often a waiting game punctuated by heart-stopping runs that can peel off hundreds of yards of line in seconds.
The bonnethead sharks around Port Aransas are absolute dynamite on light tackle. These smaller members of the hammerhead family typically run 2-4 feet and fight way above their weight class. They're incredibly abundant in the warmer months, especially from May through September, and they'll absolutely smoke a fresh shrimp or small piece of cut bait. What makes bonnetheads special is their feeding behavior – they're one of the few sharks that actually eat vegetation along with crabs and small fish, making them unique in the shark world. Blacktip sharks bring a whole different level of excitement. These acrobatic fighters are famous for their aerial displays, often launching completely out of the water multiple times during a fight. Running 3-6 feet on average, they show up in good numbers during their spring and fall migrations, with peak action typically hitting in April and May, then again in September and October.
Tiger sharks represent the apex of what Port Aransas has to offer. These massive predators can exceed 12 feet and pack serious attitude. They're less common than the smaller species, but when one picks up your bait, you'll know it immediately. Tigers are opportunistic feeders with a reputation for eating just about anything, and their powerful jaws can crush turtle shells and bones with ease. Summer months offer your best shot at a tiger, particularly during dawn and dusk periods when they move into shallower water to hunt. Lemon sharks provide consistent action throughout the warmer months, with their distinctive yellow coloration making them easy to identify. These fish typically range from 4-8 feet in local waters and are known for their powerful, bulldogging fights that test both your tackle and your endurance.
Bull sharks might be the ultimate challenge for serious anglers. These thick-bodied predators are incredibly strong, notoriously aggressive, and can handle both salt and fresh water, which means they can show up just about anywhere along the coast. Bulls in the 6-10 foot range are common in Port Aransas waters, especially around passes and channel mouths where they ambush prey. They're most active during warmer months but can be caught year-round when conditions are right. What makes bulls special is their unpredictable nature – they fight dirty, often making sudden direction changes and powerful runs toward structure that can test your drag settings and fighting skills.
Port Aransas shark fishing delivers the kind of memories that stick with you long after you've packed up your gear. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to check some serious predators off your bucket list or someone wanting to experience the raw power of Gulf Coast sharks, this trip delivers the goods. Our land-based approach gives you an authentic, up-close experience that's hard to match, and with flexible trip lengths from four to eight hours, you can customize your adventure to fit your schedule and stamina. The sharks are here, the techniques are proven, and our crew knows exactly how to put you on fish. Don't wait around hoping for the perfect conditions – book your spot now and get ready to experience some of the best shark fishing the Texas coast has to offer. Trust me, once you feel that first massive run peeling line off your reel, you'll understand why
Carcharhinus LimbatusBlacktips are the acrobats of the shark world, and they'll put on a show you won't forget. These 4-6 foot sharks with their signature black fin tips love our Gulf waters, cruising in 30-100 feet around reefs and drop-offs. They're most active during warmer months and are known for their high-energy jumps - sometimes launching 20 feet in the air when hooked. What guests love is their combination of speed and aerial displays, plus they're aggressive feeders that hit baits hard. They school up and can get pretty excited when there's chum in the water. Pro tip: use heavy braided line with circle hooks and really oily baits like mackerel or sardines. Once you get them fired up with chum, they'll compete for your bait.
Sphyrna TiburoThese smaller hammerheads with their distinctive shovel-shaped heads are some of the most fun sharks to target around Port Aransas. Running 3-4 feet on average, bonnetheads are abundant in our shallow bays and nearshore waters, especially during warmer months when they school up in groups of 10-15. They're harmless and relatively shy, feeding on crabs, shrimp, and small fish in depths from 2-30 feet. What makes them great for families is their manageable size and spirited fight without being overwhelming. They'll give you a good tussle on medium tackle. My go-to tip: cut blue crab in half and hook it through a leg - the scent drives them crazy and that fresh crab juice in the water brings them right to you.
Carcharhinus LeucasBulls are the ultimate challenge - thick, powerful sharks that can show up anywhere from deep water to shallow bays. These stocky fighters average 8-10 feet and can weigh 300+ pounds, with females getting even bigger. They're unique because they can handle both salt and fresh water, so you might hook one right in the surf or out in 50 feet of water around structure. Summer through fall gives you the best shot at them when they're most active. What guests love is that raw power - bulls don't jump much, but they'll drag you around like no other shark. They're aggressive biters that respond well to chum. The local trick that works every time: fresh eel is absolutely deadly for bulls. The oil content and tough skin make it perfect bait that stays on the hook.
Negaprion BrevirostrisLemon sharks are some of the most reliable fighters you'll find in Texas waters. These golden-yellow beauties typically run 6-8 feet and love hanging around shallow flats, grass beds, and nearshore structure where they hunt for fish and rays. They're most active during dawn and dusk, and warmer months bring them into our area in good numbers. What makes lemons special is their strong, steady fight - they don't jump much but they'll make long, powerful runs that really test your drag system. They're also curious sharks that respond well to chum lines. The best part is they're abundant enough that you've got a real shot at hooking up. My secret weapon is fresh stingray chunks on the bottom - lemons can't resist them, and the scent carries far in the current.
Galeocerdo CuvierTigers are the apex predators that serious shark hunters dream about. These massive sharks can reach 14+ feet and over 1,000 pounds, making them the ultimate challenge in Gulf waters. You'll find them in deeper water during the day, but they move shallow to hunt, especially around structure and drop-offs. The distinctive stripes fade as they age, but the power never does. Summer months bring the best action when water temps are up. What makes them special is that slow, methodical fight followed by explosive runs that'll test every piece of your tackle. They're not picky eaters - mackerel, tuna, or bluefish chunks work great. My advice: bring your heaviest gear with 100+ pound line and big circle hooks. Fresh tuna belly is hard to beat for bringing up the big girls.
Port Aransas, TX