A Guide to Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge Fishing​ and Boating

Located on the scenic Texas Coast, the Anahuac Refuge (renamed on March 10, 2025, to Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge) offers rich opportunities for fishing and boating. In fact, Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge fishing is one of the best ways to spend the day on your own or with loved ones.

The area is known for its diverse wildlife, scenic bayous, and access to Trinity Bay, making it an excellent spot for boating and exploration.

The Refuge is popular with anglers, bird watchers, and outdoor enthusiasts because it offers many different options for interactions with nature, including catching fish, photographing wildlife, and visiting areas with impressive natural beauty. Here's what you need to know about staying safe while boating and spending time in the Refuge.

All About Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge Fishing

If you plan on fishing in the Refuge, you'll have the opportunity to catch several species, including redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and black drum. Which part of the Refuge you choose will depend somewhat on the boat you have and the type of fish you're most interested in, but the best fishing spots are East Bay, Trinity Bay, and the Bayou channels.

For the best chance at fishing success, tailor your bait to the season and fish species. Depending on the time of year and your most sought-after fish species, you can use shrimp, soft plastics, or cut bait.

Of course, fishing doesn't always go as planned, so you may want to have more than one type of bait ready. 

Boating in the Refuge

Several launch sites in Trinity Bay are popular with anglers and other boaters. Because of the Refuge's marshy and shallow water areas, small boats, kayaks, and shallow-draft vessels are ideal for fishing and boating. 

Remember that when focusing on Anahuac Wildlife Refuge fishing, there are no-motor zones and speed restrictions to protect wildlife. Following the Refuge's rules and guidelines is essential to preserving the area and its ecosystem for future visitors.

Crabbing in the Refuge

Recreational crabbing is allowed, but you must ensure your traps follow state regulations so you avoid the possibility of fines and other penalties.

According to the crabbing regulations in Texas, you can have a maximum of six crab traps per person. The traps you use must have proper escape rings and a biodegradable panel. 

Any blue crabs you catch need to measure at least five inches across, from point to point, and no crabbing is allowed in protected or restricted areas of the Refuge. Knowing where you're legally allowed to set your crab traps before placing them in the water is essential.

What About Jug Lines?

Like crabbing regulations, there are also Texas jug line rules you'll need to follow. Jug lines are legal but must follow Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) regulations. Each jug line must be appropriately labeled with your name and address, and they're allowed in freshwater only.

Make sure you don't place your jug lines in coastal waters, as that's prohibited. Additionally, you can use no more than five hooks per jug line and must check your lines at least once every 24 hours. If they're not going to be in use, you're required to remove them.

Anahuac Wildlife Refuge Fishing Conservation and Safety Tips

For the best Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge fishing and boating experience, following all TPWD fishing and boating regulations to protect wildlife is vital. You don't want to risk the ecosystem or harm any species that call it home. 

Properly disposing of fishing lines and trash is among the best ways to protect the Refuge and its inhabitants. This prevents harm to birds and marine life, keeping their populations strong and helping future generations of anglers, boaters, and nature enthusiasts enjoy the Refuge to the fullest.

Respect Wildlife

If you encounter wildlife during your fishing or boating adventures, respect it and keep your distance.

By staying clear of wildlife, you allow land and marine animals to exist more comfortably and with less risk. You also help protect yourself and your passengers from any wildlife encounters that could harm you or them. 

Honor "No Fishing" Areas

Some "no fishing" areas in the Refuge must also be honored. Even though it can be very tempting to fish in a more protected location, the Refuge exists to help protect the natural environment.

Steering clear of areas designated as "no fishing" zones is crucial for the ecosystem.

Stay Alert and Safe

Along with taking care of the area, make sure you care for yourself and your vessel.

Always wear your life jacket and stay alert for changing weather conditions. The weather can change rapidly, especially in the summer when thunderstorms often appear without much warning. Staying aware of incoming weather can help keep you safe.

Enjoy a Safe Adventure in the Refuge With Boater Education

Before heading to the Refuge for a day of fishing and boating, take the time to learn crucial information about water safety through an ilearntoboat boater education course! Our fun and interactive safety courses can help you confidently make your way onto the water, no matter where you boat.

Plus, our courses meet the boater education requirements for your state.

So, if you plan to boat in the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge (now known as the Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge) or anywhere in Texas, take our course for Texas boaters!
Or, if you boat elsewhere in the U.S., find the course for your state and start learning.