Deep-sea fishermen get acquainted with red snapper, king mackerel, marlin and barracuda. Fishermen looking for a unique challenge will want to try shark fishing. Special equipment is needed for Gulf of Mexico sharks, such as mako and blackfin. Some charters specialize in shark fishing. Galveston group charter boats are concentrated on piers 18 and 19.
Sport fishermen gather at fishing tournaments held along the coast during the summer months.
Bait and tackle shops line the beaches at the popular fishing location of Aransas Pass, south of Galveston between Mustang and St. Joseph islands. The Port Aransas Lighthouse, one of only a few lighthouses still used for navigational purposes, can still be seen. The Port Aransas Deep-Sea Roundup is held each July. Fishing isn't the only pastime along the Texas coast. Sailing, swimming, parasailing and surfing are just a few of the most popular water sports.