FISHING THE CENTRAL COAST OF TEXAS ON KAYAK

By Shane Reynolds

Fishing the Texas Coastal Bend offers some of the greatest inshore

fishing excitement around. The Coastal Bend of Texas is generally

considered to be about a 150-mile stretch of the Texas Gulf Coast,

starting at the southern end of Matagorda Island and extending to

the Mansfield Cut in Kenedy County at the southern edge of the

Padre Island National Seashore. It includes Refugio, San Patricio,

Aransas, Nueces, Kleberg and Kenedy Counties. It has an extensive

estuary bay system created by several rivers that wind their way

through Texas to the Gulf Coast and are protected by some

KAYAKS AFFORD INSHORE ANGLERS STEALTH WHEN FISHING SALTWATER FLATS The sun had nearly completed its nightly descent, trailing a long amber tail across the glassy waters of the Lighthouse Lakes Trail. I took one last look around. About fifty yards to the west I saw the silhouette of an arched rod and happy angler. It had been a good day. Smiling to myself, I decided to paddle over and tell my buddy it was about time to head home. This is a scene that friends, members and I have repeated time and again in the clear/green flats of the Aransas Pass area since discovering the effectiveness of fishing from kayaks. Kayak fishing is not only effective, but also affordable and user friendly.

STEALTH ON THE FLATS The shallow, clear flats of the Coastal Bend area have long been a favorite destination for wade fishing. However, believe it or not, as effective as wade fishing is, fishing from a kayak can be even better.

There is no other craft capable of covering water as shallow and as silently as a kayak. My kayak affords me complete mobility in scant inches of water. Also, I am able to move much more quietly in the kayak than in a boat or wading.

The kayak advantage is never more defined than when covering a shallow flat with a soft, muddy bottom. These areas often hold concentrations of fish, but are difficult and tiresome to wade. A kayak, on the other hand, allows you to skim along these flats in relative comfort and without the fish-spooking splashing and bottom disturbance that often accompanies wading through knee-deep mud.

Kayaking also allows you to avoid common wade-fishing nuisances such as stingrays and jellyfish while still being able to reach the shallow spots normally reserved for wade fishermen only. Once on the chosen fishing destination, the large amount of storage space on a kayak is a definite advantage over wading belts and shirt pockets. And, if honeyhole number one is not producing, it is a small inconvenience to paddle off in search of more prosperous waters as opposed to being limited to those that can be reached by foot.

Essentially, a kayak combines a boater’s ability to cover water, store equipment and avoid painful stingrays with the wade fisherman’s ability to fish shallow flats quietly and thoroughly.

WHAT YOU NEED

The most basic and essential piece of equipment is, of course, the kayak itself. There are several manufacturers who offer a wide variety of sizes, styles, colors and options. The Outfitter Center at Cordillera Ranch offers Jackson and Ocean Kayaks, a few of the best fishing kayak manufacturers on the market. We are also a dealer for these brands and can order any type of kayak you’d need for the rivers, lakes or bays in Texas. Depending on which make and model you decide on, fishing kayaks can run anywhere from $500 to $2000. For saltwater use, the sit-on-top variety is preferable to the enclosed cockpit style that is popular for river riding. These models usually offer more stability and a large roomy cockpit. Sit-on-tops are also much easier to get in and out of, and are more comfortable if you plan to spend any length of time on the water. Usually sit-on-tops will come equipped with either recessed storage areas and straps or waterproof hatches. The type of storage you choose is a personal preference.

Next, you need to select a paddle. Traditionally, kayakers use double-bladed paddles. However, some fishermen prefer singleblade, canoe-type paddles. The double-bladed paddle gives the user more speed and maneuverability but can be awkward and clumsy when trying to cast. A short, single-blade model can be easily stored in the cockpit while fishing, but can be tiring to use when paddling substantial distances. Two-piece, doublebladed paddles offer the best of both worlds. They can be used as a double-blade when covering long distances and, once in

a fishing area, they can be broken down and used as a singleblade or push-pole for tight quarter maneuvering.

In addition to the kayak and paddle, there are several basic pieces of equipment that are a must on any kayak adventure. First, since you will be fishing, you need to select a rod and reel as well as a reasonable assortment of tackle. While some people opt for mountable rod holders, it is usually easier to lay the rod in the cockpit of the kayak so that it is always available for a quick cast or two. Generally, a small assortment of artificial lures ranging from soft-plastics to top water lures in one or two utility boxes will be adequate. Once underway, these can be tossed into the cockpit within arm’s reach. Since kayaks are light (usually under 75 lbs.), it is advisable to bring a small drift sock to ensure you maintain a fishable speed while drifting. A small mushroom anchor is often helpful if you plan to fish structure or in case of emergency.

Lifejackets should always be worn while kayaking, even in the relatively calm bay waters. Polarized sunglasses, sunscreen and fresh water all help fight the heat.

KEEP IT SAFE, ENJOYABLE

When packing for a kayak trip, pack light but never sacrifice the essentials for a safe, comfortable trip. Things like a firstaid kit, compass, flashlight, sunscreen and water don’t take up much space. However, these items can make all the difference in the world should something go wrong. Before departing, alert someone to your plans. Let them know when you plan to leave, when you expect to be back and what area you intend to explore. Check the wind, tides and weather before embarking on your trip, and always wear a lifejacket while on the water. If you ever have any questions about fishing the coast or would like to plan a trip with the Club Outfitter staff, don’t hesitate to contact us. TIGHT LINES!

Shane Reynolds is the Outdoor Recreation Director at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. He can be reached at sreynolds@cordilleraranch.com or 210.616.6051, or the Cordillera Ranch Outfitter Center at 830.336.4823.

MEMBER SERVICES

KIDS JUST WANT TO HAVE FUN!

With the Kid’s Club, parents can too.

By Kelsey Grudle

A challenge faced by many families on the Ranch is childcare.

Finding a babysitter for a quick round of golf, a workout or on

those evenings when you’d like to enjoy dinner with your significant

other does not have to be a decision-breaker for your activities.

The Kid’s Club is available not only as a means of childcare while

parents participate in the many activities available at the Clubs,

it’s also as a place of social interaction for children.

The Kid’s Club provides a fun and safe childcare environment for our young Ranchers. Not only will children be cared for by our qualified staff, but the Kid’s Club is also a place of learning and socialization. From books, games, arts and crafts and movies, there is something to engage every child. We have many options for entertainment and games, including our recently added Xbox One. The Kid’s Club also hosts special events for children throughout the year. Watch for Movie Nights, Science Nights, Craft Nights, LEGO Nights and more!

Sofia, Hensley, Hannah, Anna, Lexi and Kelsey. MEET THE KID’S CLUB CREW

54 | MARCH/APRIL 2020 KID’S CLUB SPRING HOURS OF OPERATION: Tuesday 5:00pm - 9:00pm Wednesday 9:00am - 12:30pm | 5:00pm - 9:00pm Thursday 5:00pm - 9:00pm Friday 9:00am - 12:30pm | 5:00pm - 9:00pm Saturday 9:00am - 9:00pm Sunday and Monday Closed

KIDS CLUB FEES: Hourly: $9 per child $6 for each additional sibling

AGES: Children must be a minimum of 18 months old

RESERVATIONS:

A 24-hour advance reservation is recommended so that we can adequately staff the Kid’s Club. Contact Kelsey at 830.336.9172 or kgrudle@cordilleraranch.com to make your reservation.

Relax and Rejuvenate The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch Spa Services invite you to relax and rejuvenate with an array of services including massage therapy, facials, and personal training.

Jane Riley Fitness and Wellness Director Personal Trainer 808.212.8119 Kelly Vizzone Yoga Trainer and Group Exercise Instructor 210.442.9061

For more information about the state-of-the-art fitness facility and spa services, please call 830.336.9000 and visit www.clubsofcordilleraranch.com Tammera Aranda Esthetician and Masseuse 817.909.2152 Amanda Rebollar Masseuse 773.701.1797 Amy Steinwald Masseuse 773.218.9816 Ashley Clark Master Lash Technician and Esthetician 210.607.9528 Kris Cracknell Pilates Instructor 210.860.7322 Natalie Sales Group Exercise Instructor 956.455.3145 Michael Reyes Personal Trainer 210.392.3519 Mike Miller Personal Trainer 573.201.5381 Kevin Durio Personal Trainer 214.232.8603 Kelsey Grudle The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch Recreation Coordinator 830.446.2711