What Fin and Feather Marina Offers

Fin and Feather Marina sits on the Aransas Pass waterfront and operates as a full-service facility for anglers and recreational boaters. The marina rents boats by the day or half-day, maintains wet slips for vessels up to around 40 feet, and sells fuel, ice, and basic tackle. If you're fishing the bay system without your own boat, this is one of the primary launch points in town.

The facility caters to both saltwater anglers heading into the bays and casual boaters exploring the Intracoastal Waterway. Slip holders get access to the fuel dock, water, and electricity. Day-use visitors can park, rent a boat, and be on the water within an hour on most mornings.

Key Takeaways

  • Fin and Feather rents center-console and bay boats by the half-day or full day, with rates varying by boat size and season.
  • The marina maintains wet slips for permanent or seasonal moorage, with electricity and water hookups available.
  • Fuel, ice, and tackle supplies are sold on-site, so you can load up before heading to the flats or deeper bays.
  • The location puts you minutes from redfish and trout grounds in Corpus Christi Bay and the shallow flats near Mustang Island.
  • Parking is available for trailers and vehicles, making it accessible whether you're towing a boat or renting one.

Boat Rental Options and Pricing

Fin and Feather keeps a rotating fleet of center-console and open bay boats. Most rentals are 18 to 24 feet, suitable for two to four anglers or a small family. Half-day rentals (typically four to five hours) run lower than full-day rates, and pricing shifts with the season—higher in spring and fall when the fishing peaks, lower in summer and winter.

You'll need a valid driver's license and a credit card to secure the rental. Some boats require a boating safety certificate or proof of boating experience, depending on the vessel and the marina's current policy. Call ahead to confirm what documentation you need and whether the boat you want is available on your preferred date.

Fuel is usually included in the rental rate up to a certain amount, or charged separately if you exceed it. Ask whether the rate covers fuel or if you're responsible for topping off the tank before return. Ice, coolers, and basic tackle (rods, reels, nets) can be rented or purchased separately.

Slip Rental and Moorage

Permanent and seasonal slip rentals are available for boats up to approximately 40 feet. Slips include 30-amp or 50-amp electrical service and fresh water. The fuel dock is accessible to slip holders, and the marina maintains a pump-out station for vessels with holding tanks.

Slip rates depend on boat length and whether you're renting for a month, a season, or year-round. Seasonal rates (typically October through April) are lower than summer rates. Winter is the peak season for slip rentals in Aransas Pass, as anglers and boaters flee colder climates. Contact the marina directly for current availability and pricing, as slips fill quickly during peak months.

Fuel, Ice, and Tackle Supplies

The fuel dock operates during marina hours and accepts both cash and card. Diesel and unleaded gasoline are available. The dock is designed for quick refueling, though during peak morning hours (sunrise to mid-morning) you may wait behind other boats.

Ice is sold in bags—block ice and cubed ice are typically stocked. A small tackle shop on-site carries live shrimp, frozen mullet, and basic lures for redfish, trout, and flounder. Prices are higher than big-box retailers, but the convenience is worth it if you forgot bait or need a replacement lure after losing one to a snag.

Location and Access to Fishing Grounds

Fin and Feather sits on the north side of Aransas Pass, giving you direct access to Corpus Christi Bay and the shallow flats. Redfish and spotted trout are the primary targets within 15 minutes of the marina. The deeper channels and structure near the Intracoastal Waterway hold larger trout and occasional tarpon in summer.

Mustang Island is a short run south, and the jetties at the mouth of the pass hold snapper, grouper, and jack crevalle for anglers willing to venture into deeper water. The bay system is protected from Gulf swells, making it ideal for smaller rental boats and less experienced boaters. Tides run strong through the pass itself, so plan your departure around slack water if you're new to the area.

Parking, Amenities, and Hours

The marina has a dedicated parking lot for vehicles and a separate area for boat trailers. Parking is free for day-use visitors and included with slip rental. Restrooms and a small office are on-site. Some slips have covered parking available for an additional fee.

Hours vary by season and day of the week. The marina typically opens early (around 6 or 7 a.m.) to accommodate anglers heading out at first light, and closes in the late afternoon. Call or check their website to confirm hours before you arrive, especially on weekends or holidays when staffing may differ.

How to Reserve a Boat or Slip

Reservations for boat rentals can usually be made by phone or in person at the marina office. Peak season (spring and fall) books up quickly, so calling a week or two ahead increases your chances of getting the boat and time slot you want. Some marinas use online booking systems; ask whether Fin and Feather offers that option.

For slip rentals, contact the harbormaster or marina manager directly. They'll discuss your boat size, length of stay, and electrical needs, then provide a rate quote and lease terms. Seasonal renters often secure their slip in late summer for the following winter season, so don't wait until October if you're planning to stay through the holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a captain's license to rent a boat?

No, but you need a valid driver's license and proof of boating safety training or experience. Some marinas require a boating safety certificate (available through Texas Parks and Wildlife or the Coast Guard Auxiliary). Call ahead to confirm what Fin and Feather requires for the specific boat you want to rent.

Can I bring my own cooler and tackle on a rental boat?

Yes. Rental boats come with basic safety equipment (life jackets, fire extinguisher, first aid kit). You can bring your own cooler, rods, and tackle. Some anglers prefer their own gear; others rent tackle from the marina to avoid the hassle of transporting it.

What's the best time of year to fish from Aransas Pass?

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are peak seasons for redfish and trout. Summer is slower but offers tarpon and permit in deeper channels. Winter is mild and productive for trout, which is why slip rentals spike during those months.

Are there guide services based at Fin and Feather?

Some charter captains operate out of the marina, though they may not be employed by it directly. Ask the marina staff for referrals to local guides if you want a half-day or full-day charter instead of renting a boat on your own.

What if I run out of fuel before returning the boat?

Fuel overage charges apply if you exceed the included amount. The marina will refuel the boat and charge your card for the difference. To avoid this, ask the staff how much fuel is included and plan your route accordingly, or top off at the fuel dock before heading back.