Fun 88th Annual Deep Sea Roundup 2025 in Port A Family

The 88th Annual Deep Sea Roundup is coming back to Port Aransas from July 11 to July 14, 2025, and there’s no better time to plan your beach vacation. Known for its friendly vibe and family-centered fun, the tournament brings together both skilled anglers and first-timers.

If you're thinking of visiting the coast, this is the perfect moment to book a stay at cozy Port Aransas condos on beach.

Where It All Began: The Story of the Deep Sea Roundup

The Deep Sea Roundup began in 1932, born from a group of passionate fishermen who wanted to bring together the local Port Aransas community through their shared love for fishing.

What started as a small-town event has grown into the oldest and largest family fishing tournament in Texas. It’s more than just a competition, it’s a celebration of tradition, family, and coastal heritage.

Held every summer on Mustang Island, the tournament attracts generations of anglers, from young children casting their first line to experienced veterans returning year after year. Over the decades, the event has expanded from a single-division tournament into a multi-division competition that includes offshore, bay, fly, kayak, and even piggy perch fishing for kids.

Despite its growth, the Roundup has kept its original spirit alive. Community volunteers organize much of the event, and the Port Aransas Civic Center remains its home base. The atmosphere is festive, welcoming, and deeply tied to the town’s identity.

For many families, attending the Deep Sea Roundup has become a summer tradition passed down through generations.

Rules and Regulations: What Every Angler Should Know

To ensure fair play and safety, the tournament follows strict rules that all participants must follow:

Licensing and Equipment

All anglers must have a valid Texas fishing license. Only legal fishing gear is allowed—no nets, gigs, spears, or multi-hook rigs. Hook-and-line methods only.

Eligible Species

Each division targets different species. Bay-Surf includes Redfish, Trout, Flounder, Black Drum, and Pompano. Offshore targets include Kingfish, Tuna, Mahi, and more. Some species, like Marlin and Tarpon, are catch-and-release only.

Weigh-In Requirements

Fish must be weighed on the same day they are caught and must be in good, edible condition. Fish with gaff or foul-hook damage may be disqualified. Each division has its own weigh-in deadlines, and missing the cutoff means disqualification for that day’s catch.

Catch-and-Release Divisions

Release divisions, like Billfish and Tarpon, require video documentation of the catch, species identification, and safe release. These are team events and judged by points, not weight.

Youth Rules

Junior anglers (ages 16 and under) can fish in any division but are only eligible for Junior awards. The Piggy Perch contest is limited to children 12 and under and uses tackle provided by the event.

General Conduct

All participants are expected to follow ethical fishing practices. Polygraph tests may be administered. The decision of the judges is final, and all disputes must be formally submitted for review.

Tournament Guidelines: How to Participate

Whether you’re fishing from a kayak or heading offshore, the Roundup has a division that fits your style. Based on your reference, here are the updated tournament details:

Offshore Division

Boats may depart through the Port Aransas or Packery jetties no earlier than 4:00 AM.

Fishing begins at 7:00 AM and ends at 4:00 PM.

Boats must return to Turtle Cove by 7:00 PM with catches weighed by then.

Eligible species include Tuna, Wahoo, Kingfish, Mahi, and specific shark species (Blacktip or Spinner, 54" minimum fork length).

Bay-Surf Division

Fishing starts at 6:00 AM and ends at 2:00 PM.

Weigh-in station opens at 1:00 PM and closes at 4:00 PM.

No tagged or oversize fish are accepted.

Target species: Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, Black Drum, Pompano, and Spanish Mackerel.

Fly Fishing and Kayak Divisions

Fishing is allowed from 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with weigh-in until 4:00 PM.

Fly anglers must follow IGFA fly fishing rules using artificial flies only.

Kayak anglers may be transported by boat but must catch their fish while seated in their kayak.

Billfish and Tarpon Release Divisions

Points are awarded based on species and must be documented by continuous video showing the entire process.

Billfish: 400 points for Blue Marlin, 100 for White Marlin, 70 for Sailfish.

Tarpon: 1 point per release.

No physical weigh-in; winners are decided by highest verified point total.

Junior and Piggy Perch

Juniors can compete in any division. Winners are recognized separately from adults.

Piggy Perch is a kid-friendly event held at a set location, using bait and tackle provided by the organizers.

Awards include most fish, smallest fish, largest fish, and best sportsmanship.

Why This Is the Perfect Summer Vacation Opportunity

The Deep Sea Roundup is more than a tournament,it’s the heartbeat of summer in Port Aransas.

The town itself becomes a vibrant hub during this weekend. Local businesses, restaurants, and rental owners welcome both first-time guests and returning families.

While the fishing is the highlight, this event is also the perfect excuse to enjoy a beachside getaway.

Port Aransas offers many things to do and see, whether you want a quiet moment on the sand or an exciting family outing. Enjoy boat tours, dolphin watching, beachcombing, or browse local shops and seafood restaurants. The friendly town vibe makes every visitor feel at home.

Stay Steps from the Action with Port Aransas Condos on Beach

Make your Deep Sea Roundup weekend truly unforgettable by staying right where the heart of the action meets the calming waves.

If you’re visiting with a larger group or planning an extended stay, Mustang Island rentals provide extra space, comfort, and privacy, ideal for relaxing after a full day of fishing or exploring.

These rentals offer everything from stunning Gulf views and easy tournament access to family-friendly amenities like full kitchens, pools, and private balconies. You can start your day watching the sunrise over the ocean and end it with a short walk to weigh-ins or seafood dinners by the water.

With thousands expected to attend the 88th Annual Deep Sea Roundup, accommodations go fast. Booking your condos on the beach early ensures you’re close to the fun, the water, and all the best of summer on the Texas Gulf Coast.