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Bent Oaks Rookery Park Rockport Texas
Bent Oaks Rookery Park Rockport Texas


Let’s explore the fascinating Bent Oaks Rookery Park in Rockport, Texas. 🌳



Bent Oaks Rookery Park is an 8.856-acre piece of waterfront property located across from Little Bay in Rockport, Texas. This park is a must-visit for any nature lover, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and tranquility.



Cedar Protection Fence at the Rookery Park in Rockport Texas
Cedar Protection Fence at the Rookery



Key Features:

  • Waterfront Location: The park’s waterfront location provides stunning views of Little Bay and the surrounding coastal landscape.


  • Windswept Oaks: The park is adorned with large, windswept oak trees, creating a picturesque setting.


  • Monitored Waterbird Rookery: Bent Oaks serves as a monitored colonial waterbird rookery, making it an ideal location to observe some of the most beautiful birds in the Coastal Bend.


  • Great Blue Herons and Great Egrets: Have you ever seen a majestic Great Blue Heron or a graceful Great Egret up close? Bent Oaks Rookery Park offers this unforgettable experience. These birds nest here, and their presence discourages predators, allowing nesting to succeed.


  • Nesting Season: Plan your visit between mid-January and September when the park’s live oak woodland hosts a vast colony of nesting herons and egrets. Imagine yourself surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves as you explore this marvelous park.



Overhead View of Bent Oaks Rookery Park in Rockport Texas during Nesting Season
Rookery Park during Nesting Season


Location and Accessibility:

  • Address: 1401 Broadway St, Rockport, TX 78382

  • The park is bordered by BroadwayBusiness Highway 35, and Maple Street.



Protection and History:

  • The Rookery is federally protected under the Migratory Bird Act of 1918.


  • The City of Rockport purchased the property in January 2016 for $2.995 million using tax and revenue certificates of obligation.


New Information Signs Benches and viewing binoculars at the bent oaks rookery park in Rockport Texas
New Information Signs Benches and viewing binoculars.


Experience the Wildlife:

  • As you walk through Bent Oaks Rookery Park, you’ll witness the graceful flight of herons and egrets, their nests nestled among the oak branches.


  • Capture the beauty of these birds through your camera lens and immerse yourself in the serenity of nature.


Photos of Birds born at the best oaks rookery park in Rockport Texas
Birds born at the Rookery.

Nearby Attractions:

  • Pelican Pier: If you’re interested in birdwatching, head to the nearby Pelican Pier. It’s less than 5 minutes away and offers a chance to see beautiful Brown and White Pelican flocks.


Pelican Pier Rockport TX

Bent Oaks Rookery Park is more than just a park; it’s a sanctuary where nature thrives and where visitors can connect with the coastal ecosystem. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable wildlife experience when you’re in Rockport, Texas! 🌿🦆





Conservancy Efforts: 

The Bent Oaks Conservancy is dedicated to preserving the natural treasures of Aransas County for future generations. It focuses on protecting and restoring the iconic live oak woodland and the heron and egret rookery at Bent Oaks Rookery Park.


Environmental Challenges: 

The park faces threats from both natural and human-caused factors, leading to a significant loss in canopy cover and deterioration of the woodland, which affects the nesting habitat for the birds.


Collaborative Restoration Plan:

A protection and restoration plan has been developed in collaboration with the City of Rockport, Texas Master Naturalist, Texas A&M Forest Service, and the Bent Oaks Conservancy, aiming to improve rookery protection and expand the woodland.


Support and Donations: 

The Conservancy is accepting donations to fund the restoration project, with plans including additional fencing, public viewing area improvements, and educational initiatives.

For more information and to contribute to this cause, please visit the Bent Oaks Conservancy website.

 







Who we are

The RockportFulton.com website is a comprehensive guide to the towns of Rockport and Fulton, Texas. The website provides a wealth of information about the local area, including events, activities, and attractions.




Arial View of the Rockport Texas Waterfront
Rockport Texas USA


Visitors to the website can find information about local festivals, markets, and events, as well as details about local businesses, restaurants, and accommodations. The website also features a calendar of events, so visitors can easily plan their trip and make the most of their time in Rockport and Fulton.


In addition to providing information about the local area.


RockportFulton.com is also a great resource for those who are interested in the history and culture of Rockport and Fulton. The website includes articles and photos that highlight the rich history of the towns and their unique character.


Overall, the RockportFulton.com website is an excellent resource for anyone planning a trip to Rockport and Fulton, or for those who simply want to learn more about these charming coastal towns.



The Town of Fulton Texas at sunset
The Town of Fulton Texas

Here are some additional links to help you explore the area

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Rockport Beach Park





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Little Bay is a body of water located in Rockport Texas. It’s known for its great fishing, beautiful views, wildlife habitats, and boating opportunities.


Little Bay Rockport Texas
Little Bay Rockport Texas


Location of Little Bay


The small bay is surrounded by Rockport Beach Park to the south, Key Allegro Island to the east, and the Rockport Texas waterfront to the North.


Map of Little Bay and its features
Map of Little Bay and its features

Little Bay is one of Rockport’s most noted and beautiful features. People love to visit this place to take in its scenery and relax by its shorelines.


known for its calm waters and beautiful surroundings, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.







Situated in Aransas County Texas, Rockport itself is renowned for its rich wildlife, thriving art community, and coastal recreational activities, with Little Bay being a central feature for many of these attractions.


Here’s a breakdown of what makes Little Bay special:



Arial Photograph of Little Bay
Arial Photograph of Little Bay


Recreational Activities in Little Bay

 

Fishing:

Little Bay is a favorite spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering a variety of species including redfish, trout, flounder, and black drum. On the Rockport side, there is a line of oyster reefs that make a great spot to find fish.


If you cruise over to Rockport Beachside you will find sandy beds and seagrass along the rest of its shores, which are great for redfish and floundering. At the very end of the beach is the Leggett Channel. There you can catch all kinds of different species coming in and out of Little Bay.


Check out our pages for Fishing


Female Fisherman with Redfish in Aransas County
Fishing Bounty

 

Bird Watching:

The area around Little Bay is a haven for bird watchers, with three protected bird nesting areas as well as being part of the Great North American flyway path for migratory birds. Birds line the Great Blue Herron, Great Egrets, skimmers, rosetta spoons bills pelicans, and more love to stop by here for its great hunting and areas to nest their young.


Of course, the nearby Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is home to the famous whooping cranes among with around 400 other bird species.



Young Blue Heron on the shores of Little Bay
Young Blue Heron on the shores of Little Bay


Boating and Kayaking:

The calm waters of Little Bay make it ideal for boating and kayaking. With several access points around the bay to launch your small vessels. There is a boat launch at Rockport Beach for bigger boats and a channel cut into that circles the bay known by locals and lovers of Rockport as "The Ski Basin".









If you didn't bring a boat don't worry about it. Little Bay Marine is open for business and has a boat you can rent.



Here is a link to their website: Little Bay Marine, LLC (lbmrentals.com)







Sun Fish sail boats launching on the shores of Little bay
Sun Fish sail boats launching on the shores of Little bay

 


Natural Beauty and Wildlife

The bay's serene waters and the surrounding landscape provide a picturesque setting. It's part of the larger ecosystem around the Gulf of Mexico, contributing to the area's biodiversity.

The bay supports a rich marine ecosystem, including seagrass beds that are vital for marine life.



Cranes headed to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge
Cranes headed to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge


 

Community and Culture

 

Rockport Beach

A vital part of Little Bay, Rockport Beach Park is Texas’ first Blue Wave Beach, known for its clean, safe shores and family-friendly environment.





Art Scene:

Rockport is known for its vibrant art scene, with numerous galleries and festivals. The Rockport Center for the Arts, though not directly on Little Bay, contributes to the cultural richness felt throughout the area.



Rockport Center for the Arts Complex
Rockport Center for the Arts Complex

Several famous art pieces are adorned along its western shoreline:


Art pieces displayed along The Little Bay shoreline.
Art pieces displayed along The Little Bay shoreline.


Events at Little Bay


The Rockport Festival Grounds run alongside the western side of Little Bay and Rockport and Little Bay host several events throughout the year, including fishing tournaments, monthly festivals, and cultural celebrations that attract visitors from all over. Visit the Rockport Visitors Center for more information on things happening all year long.


Join our emailing list and Check out our Events Calendar




Rockport Fulton Seafair
Rockport Fulton Seafair


Environmental Efforts

The area around Little Bay has been the focus of several environmental and conservation efforts to protect its natural beauty and wildlife. This includes habitat restoration projects and initiatives to maintain water quality.


Save Little Bay Flyer
Save Little Bay

Here are some links to organizations helping to protect and maintain this beautiful treasure.



Tourism and Economy

Tourism plays a significant role in the local economy, with Little Bay being a key attraction. The bay's appeal helps support various businesses in the area, from charter fishing and kayak rentals to restaurants, bars, and lodging.


Here is some links if you need those things:




Patriotic Boat Parade in Little Bay
Patriotic Boat Parade in Little Bay


Little Bay is more than just a body of water; it’s a community hub that offers a blend of recreational activities, natural beauty, and cultural richness. It embodies the spirit of Rockport, Texas, making it a cherished destination for both residents and visitors alike.

 



Little Bay, Key Allegro Island, and Rockport Beach Park
Little Bay, Key Allegro Island, and Rockport Beach Park

Thank you for taking the time to explore the insights and stories we’ve shared. We hope you’ve found a spark of inspiration and a wealth of helpful information that resonates with your journey.


Our passion is to empower you with knowledge, and we invite you to delve deeper into the topics that intrigue you most on our website.


For more curated content and the latest updates, join our community by subscribing to our mailing list at the bottom of the page. Together, let’s continue to discover and grow




Who we are

The RockportFulton.com website is a comprehensive guide to the towns of Rockport and Fulton, Texas. The website provides a wealth of information about the local area, including events, activities, and attractions.



Arial View of the Rockport Texas Waterfront
Rockport Texas USA


Visitors to the website can find information about local festivals, markets, and events, as well as details about local businesses, restaurants, and accommodations. The website also features a calendar of events, so visitors can easily plan their trip and make the most of their time in Rockport and Fulton.


In addition to providing information about the local area.


RockportFulton.com is also a great resource for those who are interested in the history and culture of Rockport and Fulton. The website includes articles and photos that highlight the rich history of the towns and their unique character.


Overall, the RockportFulton.com website is an excellent resource for anyone planning a trip to Rockport and Fulton, or for those who simply want to learn more about these charming coastal towns.



The Town of Fulton Texas at sunset
The Town of Fulton Texas

Here are some additional links to help you explore the area




Thank you for visiting our page:








Updated: Apr 6, 2023

If you're an angler looking for a great fishing spot, you might want to check out the Rockport Texas Fishing Pier. This pier offers some of the best saltwater fishing in the state of Texas, with a wide variety of fish species available year-round. In this article, we'll provide a complete guide to the Rockport Texas Fishing Pier, including the best time to visit, what fish you can catch, and tips for having a successful fishing trip.


Fishing Pier Rockport
Rockport Texas public Fishing Pier

The Rockport Texas Fishing Pier is a great place to fish. It’s located close to the downtown Rockport, Texas area and has some of the best views in town. You can also enjoy bird watching, sunrises, or just relaxing on this pier. Come out and try it today!


Location of Rockport Texas Fishing Pier

The Rockport Texas Fishing Pier is located at 1298 East Market Street, Rockport, TX 78382. It is situated close to downtown Rockport Texas and has some of the best views in town. You can also enjoy bird watching, sunrises, or just relaxing on this pier. The end of the pier offers a panoramic view of Aransas Bay and Rockport Harbor. The pier is easily accessible by car and has plenty of parking spaces available. The pier is also Handicap accusable.

Directions to the Rockport Fishing Pier


Best Time to Visit

The best time to fish at the Rockport Texas Fishing Pier is any time of year. Just take into consideration that when the water temperature drops, and the fish become more active, making it easier to catch them. Spring and summer months can also be productive, but the heat and humidity can be challenging for anglers.



Rockport Fishing Pier at Night
Rockport Fishing Pier at Night


Fish Species in Rockport Texas Fishing Pier

The Rockport Texas Fishing Pier offers a wide variety of fish species, including Redfish, Black Drum, Speckled Trout, Flounder, Sheepshead, and black drum are the most commonly caught fish at the pier.


Equipment Needed for Fishing at Rockport Texas Fishing Pier

Anglers need to bring their own fishing gear when visiting the Rockport Texas Fishing Pier. Basic equipment includes a fishing rod, reel, line, hooks, sinkers, and bait. Live bait is preferred by many anglers, but artificial lures can also be effective. A fishing license is required for anyone who plans to fish at the pier.


Fishing Techniques for Rockport Texas Fishing Pier

Fishing techniques will vary depending on the species of fish you're targeting. For Redfish and Speckled Trout, live bait such as shrimp, crab, or mullet works well. For Black Drum and Sheepshead, live or dead shrimp or crab is effective. Flounder can be caught using a variety of baits, including live shrimp, mud minnows, or artificial lures. We have also seen people catching fish using artificial lures such as spoons or jigs.


Tips for a Successful Fishing Trip

Here are some tips to make your fishing trip to Rockport Texas Fishing Pier a success:

  • Check the weather forecast before heading out. Avoid fishing during thunderstorms or strong winds.

  • Arrive early in the morning or late in the evening when fish are most active.

  • Use light tackle to make it easier to feel the fish biting.

  • Be patient and persistent. Fishing can be slow at times, but the rewards can be great.

  • Observe the tides and fish during high tide for best results.


Safety Precautions

It is essential to take safety precautions when fishing at Rockport Texas Fishing Pier. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:

  • Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Fishing can be messy, so it's best to wear comfortable clothes and shoes that are not slippery. Waves do splash water onto the pier at times.

  • Use caution when handling fishing equipment and hooks. Sharp hooks can cause injury if not handled properly.

  • Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for other anglers on the pier.

  • Follow all fishing regulations and respect the environment.

Amenities at Rockport Texas Fishing Pier

The Rockport Texas Fishing Pier offers several amenities for anglers, including:

  • Trash Cans

  • Handrails

  • Walking distance to convinence store, downtown bars and restaurants

  • Lighting

  • Ample Parking Spaces


Fishing License and Regulations

A fishing license is required for anyone who plans to fish at the pier. Fishing regulations are in place to protect the environment and ensure sustainable fishing. Anglers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Texas regulations before fishing at the pier.


Nearby Attractions

Rockport Texas Fishing Pier is located near several other popular attractions, including:

  • Downtown Rockport Texas

  • Rockport Beach

  • Rockport Harbor

  • Texas Maritime Museum

  • Bay Education Center

Conclusion

Rockport Texas Fishing Pier is a great spot for anglers looking to catch a variety of saltwater fish. With its convenient location, ample parking, and range of amenities, it's an excellent destination for a day of fishing. Remember to bring your fishing gear, a fishing license, and follow all fishing regulations. Be safe and have fun!


FAQs

  1. Can I rent fishing gear at Rockport Texas Fishing Pier?

  • No, you need to bring your own fishing gear.

  1. Is there a fee to fish at Rockport Texas Fishing Pier?

  • No, there is no fee and the pier is open 24/7 365 days a year

  1. Can I bring my own food and drinks to the pier?

  • Yes, outside food and drinks are allowed. We just ask that you clean up after yourself.

  1. Are there any restrictions on the size or quantity of fish I can catch?

  • Yes, fishing regulations are in place to protect the environment and ensure sustainable fishing. Check the regulations before fishing. Here's a link to the Texas Regulations.

  1. What is the best time to catch Redfish and Speckled Trout at Rockport Texas Fishing Pier?

  • The fall and winter months, from September to February, are the best time to catch Redfish and Speckled Trout at the pier.



Photos of the sites around the pier


Blue Herons love to sit and enjoy the views while looking for their next meal opportunity

Built from rock and concrete, the pier is a popular place to walk and enjoy the fresh gulf air and take in the scenery. From the pier, you have views of water street, Rockport Harbor, and epic sunrises over Aransas bay.

Hunts Castle Hotel and views of Water Street

Magnificent Sunrises can be seen over Aransas Bay

Managers of the Pier

The Rockport Pier is maintained and managed by the Aransas County Navigation District.


Here is what others have to say about the Rockport Pier:


Google review of Rockport Pier by Sandra “Sandye” Gutierrez ★★★★★ “The place is amazing! Its divided into 2 parts. One side is very clam water the other side is toward the gulf. Water is kind of rough depending on how strong the wind is.”

Other fishing piers in the area

Here is our local piers list if you want to check them out as well



We have all your fishing needs covered with bait, tackle, rods, reels, and more at the Rockport Harbor Marina. There are also some great fishing stores in town as well.

Visit RockportFulton.com today!

You may also be interested in visiting the New Fulton Fishing Pier located in Fulton, Texas it’s really nice and has some state-of-the-art LED fishing lights. Here is the link below if you want to check it out!

Rockport Fulton Pier HD

Rockport Fulton Pier shot in HD Fulton Fishing Pier | rockportfulton

As we said Rockport Pier is just one of many great fishing spots in the Rockport, Fulton, and Aransas County area. Check out our Rockport Texas Fishing Piers | Fulton Texas (rockportfulton.com) section to see the other public piers in the area as well.


Be sure to check out our latest Rockport Beach Park Live feed camera where you can see what's happening at the beach anytime 24/7

Rockport Beach

Rockport Beach Park Live feed. Rockport Beach Live Camera | rockportfulton

Here are some helpful links for things around the area


History of Aransas County | Rockport Texas (rockportfulton.com) Have a good look around with our Virtual Tour Technology


Who we are

The RockportFulton.com website is a comprehensive guide to the towns of Rockport and Fulton, Texas. The website provides a wealth of information about the local area, including events, activities, and attractions.



Arial View of the Rockport Texas Waterfront
Rockport Texas USA


Visitors to the website can find information about local festivals, markets, and events, as well as details about local businesses, restaurants, and accommodations. The website also features a calendar of events, so visitors can easily plan their trip and make the most of their time in Rockport and Fulton.


In addition to providing information about the local area.


RockportFulton.com is also a great resource for those who are interested in the history and culture of Rockport and Fulton. The website includes articles and photos that highlight the rich history of the towns and their unique character.


Overall, the RockportFulton.com website is an excellent resource for anyone planning a trip to Rockport and Fulton, or for those who simply want to learn more about these charming coastal towns.



The Town of Fulton Texas at sunset
The Town of Fulton Texas

Here are some additional links to help you explore the area

Thank you for visiting our page:



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