{
  "metadata": {
    "region": "Aransas Bay System",
    "locations": [
      "Aransas Pass",
      "Port Aransas",
      "Rockport",
      "Corpus Christi Bay",
      "Redfish Bay"
    ],
    "state": "Texas",
    "water_type": "Saltwater Estuary / Gulf Coast",
    "dataset_version": "1.0",
    "last_updated": "2026-05-04",
    "disclaimer": "Seasonal availability varies year to year based on water temperature, salinity, rainfall, and environmental conditions. Always check current TPWD and federal regulations before fishing."
  },
  "species": [
    {
      "id": "redfish",
      "common_name": "Redfish",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Red Drum",
        "Bull Red",
        "Slot Red"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Sciaenops ocellatus",
      "category": "inshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        3,
        4,
        5,
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "best_months": {
        "slot_reds": [
          3,
          4,
          5,
          8,
          9,
          10
        ],
        "bull_reds": [
          9,
          10,
          11
        ]
      },
      "habitat": [
        "Grass flats",
        "Oyster reefs",
        "Marsh shorelines",
        "Channel edges",
        "Jetties",
        "Surf zone (fall)"
      ],
      "notes": "Year-round availability. Bull reds (30-40+ inches) pack the Aransas Pass jetties in fall during the spawn run. Spring offers excellent slot red action on shallow flats.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "3 per day",
        "size_limit": "20-28 inch slot; one bull over 28\" allowed with modified TPWD tag",
        "special_rules": "Bull reds are catch-and-release only unless tagged"
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "speckled_trout",
      "common_name": "Speckled Trout",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Spotted Seatrout",
        "Specs",
        "Trout",
        "Gator Trout"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Cynoscion nebulosus",
      "category": "inshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        3,
        4,
        5,
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "best_months": {
        "trophy_trout": [
          1,
          2,
          11,
          12
        ],
        "spawn_bite": [
          3,
          4,
          5
        ],
        "fall_feed": [
          9,
          10,
          11
        ]
      },
      "habitat": [
        "Grass flats",
        "Shell bars",
        "Oyster reefs",
        "Deep channels (winter)",
        "Seagrass beds",
        "Sand pockets"
      ],
      "notes": "Most popular inshore gamefish. Trophy trout (28+ inches) hold in deep guts in winter. Spawn bite is outstanding on shallow flats at dawn. Fall offers aggressive topwater action.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "3 per day",
        "size_limit": "15-20 inch slot; one over 30\" allowed",
        "special_rules": "Regulation reduced from previous 5 fish / 15-25\" slot"
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "black_drum",
      "common_name": "Black Drum",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Drum"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Pogonias cromis",
      "category": "inshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        12,
        1,
        2,
        3
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Jetty pilings",
        "Channel markers",
        "Oyster reefs",
        "Deep holes",
        "Barnacle-covered structure"
      ],
      "notes": "Most consistent in cooler months. Excellent table fare when under 10 lbs. Large drum (30-50+ lbs) are common around the jetties in winter.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "5 per day",
        "size_limit": "14-30 inch slot; one over 52\" allowed",
        "special_rules": null
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "flounder",
      "common_name": "Flounder",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Southern Flounder",
        "Flatfish",
        "Flattie"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Paralichthys lethostigma",
      "category": "inshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        4,
        5,
        10
      ],
      "best_months": {
        "spring": [
          4,
          5
        ],
        "fall_run": [
          10
        ]
      },
      "habitat": [
        "Sandy bottoms",
        "Channel edges",
        "Passes",
        "Sandy pockets near grass lines",
        "Mud flats"
      ],
      "notes": "Famous 'fall run' in October-November when flounder migrate to Gulf passes to spawn. Excellent table fare. Gigging is popular in shallow water.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "5 per day (combined methods)",
        "size_limit": "14 inch minimum",
        "special_rules": "Season CLOSED Nov 1 - Dec 14; reopens Dec 15"
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "sheepshead",
      "common_name": "Sheepshead",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Convict Fish",
        "Sheepie"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Archosargus probatocephalus",
      "category": "inshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        12,
        1,
        2,
        3
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Jetty structure",
        "Dock pilings",
        "Rock walls",
        "Barnacle-covered structure",
        "Oyster reefs"
      ],
      "notes": "Peak fishing during cooler months when they spawn around hard structure. Infamous bait stealers \u2014 use small sharp hooks. Excellent eating.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "5 per day",
        "size_limit": "15 inch minimum",
        "special_rules": null
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "jack_crevalle",
      "common_name": "Jack Crevalle",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Jack",
        "Yellow Jack",
        "Crevalle"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Caranx hippos",
      "category": "inshore",
      "months_present": [
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Open water",
        "Channels",
        "Passes",
        "Jetties",
        "Surf zones",
        "Flats"
      ],
      "notes": "Powerful fighting fish that travels in aggressive schools. Will blow up on topwater plugs. Not considered table fare by most anglers.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "No limit",
        "size_limit": null,
        "special_rules": null
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "ladyfish",
      "common_name": "Ladyfish",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Poor Man's Tarpon",
        "Ten Pounder"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Elops saurus",
      "category": "inshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Bays",
        "Passes",
        "Nearshore Gulf",
        "Flats",
        "Sand areas"
      ],
      "notes": "Acrobatic leapers, great fun on light tackle. Not edible \u2014 mushy flesh. Abundant in warmer months.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "No limit",
        "size_limit": null,
        "special_rules": null
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "gafftopsail_catfish",
      "common_name": "Gafftopsail Catfish",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Gafftop",
        "Sail Cat"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Bagre marinus",
      "category": "inshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Shallow inshore",
        "Estuaries",
        "Bays",
        "Sandy/muddy bottoms",
        "Brackish water"
      ],
      "notes": "Common bycatch in summer. Surprisingly good eating despite being a catfish. Handle carefully \u2014 venomous dorsal and pectoral spines.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "No limit",
        "size_limit": null,
        "special_rules": null
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "pompano",
      "common_name": "Pompano",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Florida Pompano"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Trachinotus carolinus",
      "category": "inshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        3,
        4,
        5,
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "best_months": {
        "surf": [
          12,
          1,
          2
        ],
        "bay": [
          10,
          11,
          3,
          4,
          5
        ]
      },
      "habitat": [
        "Surf zone",
        "Gulf beaches",
        "Passes",
        "Sandy bottoms",
        "Jetties"
      ],
      "notes": "Excellent table fare \u2014 considered one of the best-eating fish. Winter surf fishing can be outstanding. Feeds on sand fleas and small crustaceans.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "No limit",
        "size_limit": null,
        "special_rules": null
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "whiting",
      "common_name": "Whiting",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Gulf Kingfish",
        "Sea Mullet",
        "King Whiting"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Menticirrhus littoralis",
      "category": "inshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Surf zone",
        "Sandy beaches",
        "Coastal waters over sand/mud"
      ],
      "notes": "Year-round surf fishing staple. Uses chin barbel to find prey in sand. Excellent eating \u2014 firm, white, mild flesh.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "No limit",
        "size_limit": null,
        "special_rules": null
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "sand_trout",
      "common_name": "Sand Trout",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Sand Seatrout",
        "White Trout"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Cynoscion arenarius",
      "category": "inshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Bay systems",
        "Gulf passes",
        "Sandy bottoms",
        "Channels"
      ],
      "notes": "Good eating but softer flesh than speckled trout. Often found in sandy areas vs. grass flats where specks hold. No bag limit makes them great for fish tacos.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "No limit",
        "size_limit": null,
        "special_rules": null
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "spanish_mackerel_inshore",
      "common_name": "Spanish Mackerel",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Spanish"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Scomberomorus maculatus",
      "category": "inshore",
      "months_present": [
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Nearshore waters",
        "Jetties",
        "Passes",
        "Beachfront",
        "Surf zone"
      ],
      "notes": "Fast, aggressive predators that follow bait schools. Excellent on the grill. Use wire leaders to prevent bite-offs.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "15 per day",
        "size_limit": "12 inch minimum (fork length)",
        "special_rules": null
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "bluefish",
      "common_name": "Bluefish",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Blue",
        "Snapper Blue"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Pomatomus saltatrix",
      "category": "inshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        1,
        2,
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Inshore waters",
        "Surf zone",
        "Jetties",
        "Piers"
      ],
      "notes": "Voracious predator with sharp teeth. More common in cooler months. Good fighter on light tackle. Use wire leaders.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "10 per day",
        "size_limit": null,
        "special_rules": null
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "hardhead_catfish",
      "common_name": "Hardhead Catfish",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Hardhead"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Ariopsis felis",
      "category": "inshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [],
      "habitat": [
        "Shallow bays",
        "Estuaries",
        "Tidal creeks",
        "Mud/sand bottoms"
      ],
      "notes": "Extremely common year-round bycatch. Notorious bait thief. VENOMOUS spines \u2014 handle with extreme care. Not edible.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "No limit",
        "size_limit": null,
        "special_rules": null
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "red_snapper",
      "common_name": "Red Snapper",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Snapper",
        "American Red Snapper"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Lutjanus campechanus",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        6,
        7,
        8
      ],
      "best_months": {
        "federal_season": [
          6,
          7,
          8,
          9,
          10,
          11
        ],
        "state_waters": [
          1,
          2,
          3,
          4,
          5,
          6,
          7,
          8,
          9,
          10,
          11,
          12
        ]
      },
      "habitat": [
        "Offshore reefs",
        "Oil rigs",
        "Wrecks",
        "Hard bottom",
        "60-100+ ft"
      ],
      "notes": "Texas' most popular offshore species. Federal season typically opens early June. State waters (inside 9 nautical miles) are open year-round with different limits.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "2 federal / 4 state waters per day",
        "size_limit": "16 inch minimum (federal) / 15 inch minimum (state)",
        "special_rules": "Federal season typically June-November; check current year dates"
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "mangrove_snapper",
      "common_name": "Mangrove Snapper",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Gray Snapper"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Lutjanus griseus",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Jetties",
        "Oil rigs",
        "Nearshore structure",
        "60-120 ft"
      ],
      "notes": "Excellent eating. Often found around structure. Can be targeted at the jetties in summer.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "10 per day (within aggregate snapper limit)",
        "size_limit": "12 inch minimum",
        "special_rules": "Included in 4-per-person snapper aggregate in federal waters"
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "king_mackerel",
      "common_name": "King Mackerel",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Kingfish",
        "King",
        "Smoker"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Scomberomorus cavalla",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        6,
        7,
        8
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "5-20 miles offshore",
        "Shrimp boats",
        "Wrecks",
        "Reefs",
        "Beachfront (summer)"
      ],
      "notes": "Premier nearshore pelagic. Follows bait schools and shrimp boats in summer. Fast strikes, long runs. Excellent smoked or fresh.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "2 per day",
        "size_limit": "27 inch minimum (fork length)",
        "special_rules": null
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "cobia",
      "common_name": "Cobia",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Ling",
        "Lemonfish",
        "Crab Eater"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Rachycentron canadum",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        5,
        6,
        7
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Buoys",
        "Debris",
        "Oil platforms",
        "Nearshore waters",
        "Channels"
      ],
      "notes": "Curious fish that often hangs around surface structure. Aggressive eater and powerful fighter. Excellent table fare.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "2 per day",
        "size_limit": "40 inch minimum (fork length)",
        "special_rules": "May not remove from water if over 36\" (release protocol)"
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "tarpon",
      "common_name": "Tarpon",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Silver King",
        "Poon"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Megalops atlanticus",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        7,
        8
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Beachfront",
        "Channels",
        "15-40 ft",
        "Jetties",
        "Passes"
      ],
      "notes": "Ultimate sportfish. Acrobatic jumps and long runs. migratory along Texas coast in summer months. Sight-casting along beachfront is premier experience.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "Catch and release only",
        "size_limit": null,
        "special_rules": "Must remain in water if over 40 inches; mandatory catch-and-release in Texas"
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "shark",
      "common_name": "Shark",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Various species"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Multiple (Carcharhinus, Sphyrna spp.)",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        6,
        7,
        8
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Offshore waters",
        "Shrimp boats",
        "Beachfront",
        "Passes"
      ],
      "notes": "Blacktip, spinner, bull, hammerhead, and others common in summer. Often found around shrimp boat culling. Strong fighters.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "1 per day (within aggregate)",
        "size_limit": "64 inch minimum (many species)",
        "special_rules": "Highly regulated; check TPWD for species-specific rules"
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "amberjack",
      "common_name": "Greater Amberjack",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Amberjack",
        "AJ",
        "Reef Donkey"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Seriola dumerili",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Oil rigs",
        "Wrecks",
        "Deep structure",
        "Reefs"
      ],
      "notes": "Powerful fighters \u2014 nicknamed 'reef donkey.' Often closed seasonally for spawning. Check federal season status.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "1 per day",
        "size_limit": "34 inch minimum (fork length) to fork",
        "special_rules": "May have seasonal closures; check federal regulations"
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "grouper",
      "common_name": "Grouper",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Red Grouper",
        "Gag Grouper",
        "Scamp"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Epinephelus / Mycteroperca spp.",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Deep structure",
        "Hard bottom",
        "80-120+ ft",
        "Reefs",
        "Wrecks"
      ],
      "notes": "Gag, red, and scamp grouper are all available. Deep-water species requiring longer offshore runs. Excellent eating.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "4 per person (within grouper aggregate)",
        "size_limit": "Varies by species",
        "special_rules": "Grouper aggregate: 4 per person within 4-fish snapper/grouper aggregate"
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "triggerfish",
      "common_name": "Gray Triggerfish",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Triggerfish"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Balistes capriscus",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        3,
        4,
        5,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        3,
        4,
        5,
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Reefs",
        "Rigs",
        "Wrecks",
        "Hard bottom"
      ],
      "notes": "Good eating with unique texture. Closed season in summer months for spawning. Use stout gear \u2014 they pull hard and go to structure.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "1 per person",
        "size_limit": "15 inch minimum (fork length)",
        "special_rules": "Seasonal closure Jun 1 - Jul 31; check current year"
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "dorado",
      "common_name": "Dorado",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Mahi-Mahi",
        "Dolphin Fish"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Coryphaena hippurus",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        6,
        7,
        8
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Weed lines",
        "Floating debris",
        "25-40+ miles offshore",
        "Current rips"
      ],
      "notes": "Beautiful, fast-growing fish. Often found around floating debris and weed lines. One of the best-eating fish. Acrobatic on light tackle.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "10 per day (within 20-fish dorado/cobia aggregate)",
        "size_limit": "20 inch minimum (fork length)",
        "special_rules": null
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "blackfin_tuna",
      "common_name": "Blackfin Tuna",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Blackfin"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Thunnus atlanticus",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        10,
        11,
        12,
        1,
        2
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Deep rigs",
        "300-500 ft",
        "Oil platforms",
        "Current edges"
      ],
      "notes": "Smallest tuna species in Gulf. Excellent sashimi grade. Winter bite can be outstanding around deep rigs. Fast and powerful for their size.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "3 per day (within tuna aggregate)",
        "size_limit": null,
        "special_rules": "Recreational tuna limits apply"
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "yellowfin_tuna",
      "common_name": "Yellowfin Tuna",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Yellowfin",
        "YF Tuna",
        "Ahi"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Thunnus albacares",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Deep rigs",
        "1,500+ ft",
        "60+ miles offshore",
        "Current edges",
        "Oil platforms"
      ],
      "notes": "Premier offshore gamefish. Requires long-range trips. Summer and fall offer best shots. World-class sashimi. Schools under shrimp boats and around rigs.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "3 per day (within tuna aggregate)",
        "size_limit": "27 inch minimum (curved fork)",
        "special_rules": "Recreational tuna limits apply; HMS permit required in federal waters"
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "wahoo",
      "common_name": "Wahoo",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Ono",
        "Hoo"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Acanthocybium solandri",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        10,
        11,
        12,
        1,
        2
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "100-fathom curve",
        "60-80 miles offshore",
        "Current edges",
        "Reefs"
      ],
      "notes": "One of the fastest fish in the ocean. Winter run (Oct-Feb) is legendary along Texas coast. Solitary hunters but multiple hookups possible. Excellent eating.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "2 per day",
        "size_limit": null,
        "special_rules": "Recreational tuna/aggregates may apply"
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "sailfish",
      "common_name": "Sailfish",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Atlantic Sailfish"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Istiophorus platypterus",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        7,
        8
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "30-50+ miles offshore",
        "Color breaks",
        "Current lines",
        "Deep water"
      ],
      "notes": "Acrobatic billfish. Rare but present in summer months. Catch-and-release is standard practice. Incredible aerial displays.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "Catch and release encouraged",
        "size_limit": null,
        "special_rules": "Billfish conservation recommended"
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "tripletail",
      "common_name": "Tripletail",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Buoy Fish",
        "Blackfish"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Lobotes surinamensis",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Buoys",
        "Crab trap floats",
        "Debris",
        "Weed lines",
        "Channel markers"
      ],
      "notes": "Unique-looking fish that floats on its side near surface structure. Excellent table fare. Often overlooked but highly sought after by knowledgeable anglers.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "3 per day",
        "size_limit": "18 inch minimum",
        "special_rules": null
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "barracuda",
      "common_name": "Great Barracuda",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Cuda",
        "Barracuda"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Sphyraena barracuda",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Offshore rigs",
        "Jetties",
        "Reefs",
        "Wrecks"
      ],
      "notes": "Ambush predator around structure and rigs. Not commonly targeted but caught incidentally. Not recommended to eat due to ciguatera risk.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "No limit",
        "size_limit": null,
        "special_rules": "Not recommended for consumption"
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "spadefish",
      "common_name": "Spadefish",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Atlantic Spadefish"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Chaetodipterus faber",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Nearshore reefs",
        "Wrecks",
        "Pilings",
        "Jetties"
      ],
      "notes": "Distinctive disk-shaped fish. Often found in schools around structure. Good eating. Fun on light tackle.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "No limit",
        "size_limit": null,
        "special_rules": null
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "blue_marlin",
      "common_name": "Blue Marlin",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Marlin"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Makaira nigricans",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        7,
        8
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "100+ miles offshore",
        "Deep water",
        "Canyons",
        "Current edges"
      ],
      "notes": "Ultimate offshore big-game fish. Extremely rare from Port Aransas. Requires multi-day long-range trip to blue water. Catch-and-release standard.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "Catch and release only",
        "size_limit": null,
        "special_rules": "Blue marlin must be released; cannot remove from water"
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "bonito",
      "common_name": "Bonito",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Little Tunny",
        "False Albacore"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Euthynnus alletteratus",
      "category": "offshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        6,
        7,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        6,
        7,
        8
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Nearshore",
        "Offshore structure",
        "Rigs",
        "Reefs"
      ],
      "notes": "Common around offshore structure. Often mistaken for baby tuna. Edible but not highly regarded. Great sport on light tackle.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "No limit",
        "size_limit": null,
        "special_rules": null
      }
    },
    {
      "id": "silver_seatrout",
      "common_name": "Silver Seatrout",
      "alternative_names": [
        "Silver Trout"
      ],
      "scientific_name": "Cynoscion nothus",
      "category": "inshore",
      "months_present": [
        1,
        2,
        3,
        4,
        5,
        8,
        9,
        10,
        11,
        12
      ],
      "peak_months": [
        4,
        5,
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "habitat": [
        "Offshore Gulf waters",
        "Near passes",
        "Sandy bottoms"
      ],
      "notes": "Primarily found in offshore Gulf waters. Shows up near Aransas Bay passes during spring and fall migrations. Similar to sand trout but smaller.",
      "regulations": {
        "bag_limit": "No limit",
        "size_limit": null,
        "special_rules": null
      }
    }
  ],
  "monthly_calendar": {
    "1": {
      "month": "January",
      "top_targets": [
        "black_drum",
        "sheepshead",
        "speckled_trout",
        "redfish",
        "pompano"
      ],
      "notes": "Cool water pushes trout deep. Trophy trout season in skinny water at midday. Black drum and sheepshead excellent around jetty structure. Pompano in surf. Redfish schooled up in back lakes.",
      "water_temp_range_f": [
        52,
        62
      ],
      "pattern": "Deep water winter pattern. Slow presentations. Afternoon bite best as water warms."
    },
    "2": {
      "month": "February",
      "top_targets": [
        "black_drum",
        "sheepshead",
        "speckled_trout",
        "redfish",
        "pompano"
      ],
      "notes": "Sheepshead spawn peaks \u2014 best month for big sheepies. Black drum excellent. Trophy trout still possible. First signs of spring movement late in month.",
      "water_temp_range_f": [
        54,
        65
      ],
      "pattern": "Late winter/early spring transition. Sheepshead spawn. Look for first warm days to trigger trout movement shallow."
    },
    "3": {
      "month": "March",
      "top_targets": [
        "redfish",
        "speckled_trout",
        "sand_trout",
        "king_mackerel",
        "cobia"
      ],
      "notes": "Spring break fishing at its best. Trout move shallow to spawn. Redfish active on flats. Cobia and kings begin arriving nearshore. Sand trout peak in bay.",
      "water_temp_range_f": [
        60,
        72
      ],
      "pattern": "Spring spawn pattern. Topwater bite improves. Fish move to grass flats as water hits 68\u00b0F+. Early morning shallow water best."
    },
    "4": {
      "month": "April",
      "top_targets": [
        "redfish",
        "speckled_trout",
        "flounder",
        "cobia",
        "pompano"
      ],
      "notes": "Trout spawn in full swing \u2014 best shallow-water trout fishing. Redfish tailing on flooded grass. Cobia peak nearshore. Flounder return from Gulf. Pompano in surf.",
      "water_temp_range_f": [
        66,
        76
      ],
      "pattern": "Peak spring pattern. Flood tides produce tailing redfish. Trout on grass flats at dawn. Live shrimp under popping cork deadly."
    },
    "5": {
      "month": "May",
      "top_targets": [
        "redfish",
        "speckled_trout",
        "king_mackerel",
        "jack_crevalle",
        "tripletail"
      ],
      "notes": "All species active. King mackerel arrive in force. Jack crevalle schools invade bays. Tripletail show up on crab trap lines. Consistent offshore weather.",
      "water_temp_range_f": [
        72,
        82
      ],
      "pattern": "Full summer transition. Early morning and late evening best for inshore. Offshore kicks into high gear. Shrimp bait available."
    },
    "6": {
      "month": "June",
      "top_targets": [
        "red_snapper",
        "king_mackerel",
        "tarpon",
        "redfish",
        "speckled_trout"
      ],
      "notes": "RED SNAPPER federal season OPENS. Kings peak nearshore. Tarpon arrive along beachfront. Redfish early morning on flats. Trout retreat to deeper water by mid-morning.",
      "water_temp_range_f": [
        78,
        88
      ],
      "pattern": "Peak summer. Offshore is primary focus. Inshore fish early/late. Tarpon migration begins along beachfront. Snapper season excitement."
    },
    "7": {
      "month": "July",
      "top_targets": [
        "red_snapper",
        "king_mackerel",
        "tarpon",
        "dorado",
        "speckled_trout"
      ],
      "notes": "Peak offshore month. Red snapper, kings, tarpon, mahi all hot. Hottest month \u2014 inshore bite very early morning only. Trout in deep channels and ICW.",
      "water_temp_range_f": [
        82,
        92
      ],
      "pattern": "Hottest water of the year. Fish dawn and dusk. Offshore peak conditions. Live bait or slow deep presentations inshore."
    },
    "8": {
      "month": "August",
      "top_targets": [
        "red_snapper",
        "king_mackerel",
        "tarpon",
        "amberjack",
        "redfish"
      ],
      "notes": "Last full month of summer patterns. Red snapper still open (check closing date). Kings and tarpon remain strong. Redfish staging for fall spawn. Offshore weather can be unpredictable.",
      "water_temp_range_f": [
        82,
        90
      ],
      "pattern": "Late summer. First cool front possible late month signals change. Fish early. Offshore remains excellent if weather allows."
    },
    "9": {
      "month": "September",
      "top_targets": [
        "redfish",
        "speckled_trout",
        "king_mackerel",
        "flounder",
        "jack_crevalle"
      ],
      "notes": "BULL REDS arrive at jetties! Fall fishing kickoff. Trout turn aggressive. First cold fronts push bait and predators. Flounder begin staging. Last good month for tarpon.",
      "water_temp_range_f": [
        76,
        86
      ],
      "pattern": "Fall transition begins. First norther triggers major bite. Jetties packed with bull reds. Topwater trout bite returns."
    },
    "10": {
      "month": "October",
      "top_targets": [
        "redfish",
        "flounder",
        "speckled_trout",
        "spanish_mackerel_inshore",
        "king_mackerel"
      ],
      "notes": "BEST MONTH overall. Bull reds PEAK at jetties. FLOUNDER RUN in full swing. Trout aggressive on topwater. Spanish mackerel blitz nearshore. Cooler water revives all inshore species.",
      "water_temp_range_f": [
        68,
        78
      ],
      "pattern": "Peak fall fishing. Flounder gigging excellent. Reds pushing 40+ inches at jetties. Trout feed aggressively before winter. Multiple species overlapping."
    },
    "11": {
      "month": "November",
      "top_targets": [
        "speckled_trout",
        "redfish",
        "wahoo",
        "black_drum",
        "sheepshead"
      ],
      "notes": "Trout fishing outstanding. Bull reds taper but still available. Wahoo arrive offshore. FLOUNDER SEASON CLOSES Nov 1 \u2014 reopens Dec 15. Black drum and sheepshead start heating up.",
      "water_temp_range_f": [
        62,
        72
      ],
      "pattern": "Late fall transition. Cold fronts more frequent. Fish push deeper or south. Last great month for consistent topwater trout action."
    },
    "12": {
      "month": "December",
      "top_targets": [
        "black_drum",
        "sheepshead",
        "redfish",
        "speckled_trout",
        "red_snapper"
      ],
      "notes": "Winter pattern begins. Black drum and sheepshead excellent. State-water red snapper open. FLOUNDER reopens Dec 15. Redfish in tight winter schools. Trophy trout in deep holes.",
      "water_temp_range_f": [
        55,
        65
      ],
      "pattern": "Winter inshore focus. Jetty fishing for drums and sheeps. State snapper in near rigs. Slow methodical presentations. Afternoon bite best."
    }
  },
  "environmental_triggers": {
    "water_temperature": {
      "below_65f": "Trout move to deep channels and holes. Redfish school in back lakes. Black drum and sheepshead peak around structure.",
      "65_70f": "Transition zone. First signs of spring movement. Trout may move shallow on warm afternoons.",
      "68_75f": "Prime spawning window for speckled trout. Best shallow-water grass flat action. Redfish tailing on flood tides.",
      "75_82f": "Summer pattern established. Early morning shallow bite, then fish move deep. Offshore species at peak.",
      "above_82f": "Fish stress in heat. Dawn/dusk only for inshore. Offshore pelagics thrive.",
      "cooling_to_70s": "Fall feeding frenzy begins. All species become aggressive before winter. Best fishing of the year."
    },
    "tide_patterns": {
      "rising_tide": "Pushes bait onto grass flats. Redfish and trout follow. Best for shallow-water fishing.",
      "falling_tide": "Creates ambush points at drains, guts, and passes. Fish stack at exits waiting for bait.",
      "high_tide": "Fish spread out. Redfish tail in flooded grass. Access to normally dry areas.",
      "low_tide": "Fish concentrated in deeper holes and channels. Exposes structure."
    },
    "weather_patterns": {
      "first_fall_cold_front": "Triggers flounder run AND bull redfish movement to jetties. Major feeding event.",
      "stable_high_pressure": "Tough fishing. Fish lockjaw after front passes.",
      "approaching_front": "Often excellent bite as barometric pressure drops.",
      "heavy_rainfall": "Reduces salinity. Pushes saltwater species toward Gulf passes. Can shut off bite in flooded bays.",
      "shrimp_run": "Late summer/early fall shrimp emigration triggers predator feed. All species key on shrimp."
    }
  },
  "regulations_summary": {
    "speckled_trout": {
      "bag_limit": "3 per day",
      "size_limit": "15-20 inch slot; one over 30\"",
      "effective_date": "2024 regulations"
    },
    "redfish": {
      "bag_limit": "3 per day",
      "size_limit": "20-28 inch slot",
      "notes": "Bull reds over 28\" are catch-and-release"
    },
    "flounder": {
      "bag_limit": "5 per day",
      "size_limit": "14 inch minimum",
      "season_closure": "November 1 - December 14",
      "reopens": "December 15"
    },
    "red_snapper_federal": {
      "bag_limit": "2 per day",
      "size_limit": "16 inch minimum",
      "typical_season": "June through November",
      "notes": "Check current year federal season dates"
    },
    "red_snapper_state": {
      "bag_limit": "4 per day",
      "size_limit": "15 inch minimum",
      "season": "Year-round in state waters (inside 9nm)"
    },
    "general_notes": [
      "All recreational anglers fishing in saltwater must have a valid Texas fishing license with saltwater endorsement.",
      "Check TPWD.gov for current regulations \u2014 rules change frequently.",
      "Federal waters begin 9 nautical miles from shore in Texas.",
      "Some offshore species require HMS (Highly Migratory Species) permits in federal waters."
    ]
  }
}