by John Jefferson
It’s been said forever that “an ill wind blows no good.”
And I’m not about to credit that ill wind called Hurricane Harvey that struck Rockport and the surrounding Texas coastline in August 2017 with doing anything good!
On the contrary, many residents wisely fled to higher ground. Advance warnings foretold doom. Residents that remained were advised to write their social security numbers on their arms to ensure their remains could be identified.
Winds of 130-mph, Biblical-era rains, and a strong sea surge destroyed many structures and left residents homeless. It looked like a war zone. Structures lay in shambles.
I worried about friends there for several days since communications and utilities were knocked out. Places where I led photo workshops for eight seasons were washed away. One of those places was Redfish Lodge on Copano Bay.
Located on a peninsula jutting into the bay, it welcomed guests in grand style. The hospitality was fit for royalty. It was famous nationwide — and a favorite of mine.
Another fishing writer, Mark McDonald, also joined my wife and me there.
When phone service was restored, information was heartbreaking. Redfish Lodge was decimated — beyond repair! As was much of Rockport.
The owner later sold the property to a partnership that began planning to rebuild. With an indominable spirit, the entire city of Rockport dug in. Two years later, they were still digging.
After meticulous construction, on March 25, Redfish Lodge’s new owners cut the ribbon to open the first phase of the totally rebuilt lodge named the “Ruddy Lodge.” It has twelve rooms and an inviting outdoor meeting/relaxing courtyard by the pool and hot tub. Replete with thatched shelters and palm trees, it takes you nearer the islands without leaving Texas!
I’m told that those twelve rooms are already booking quickly. As coastal fishing hits its stride during the summer, don’t miss out! Ruddy Lodge is ideal for reunions and retreats, and Copano Bay calls! See https://redfishlodge.com/ruddy-photos/ for facilities images and trophy fish (they’re below the interior pictures).
Redfish Lodge arranges fishing trips with popular guides who know Copano Bay but also keep up with the bite in other bays, assuring a better chance of fishing success. And if guests still have a yen for more fishing after dark, lighted docks offer that opportunity. I fished under the lights at the former lodge and caught several nice trout. A man fishing near me hooked something strong enough to break his NEW ROD.
Ouch!
Planning is already underway for the much larger main lodge, which will have a total of 60 beds, including Ruddy Lodge’s rooms. It’s planned to open in 2027.
Until then, Ruddy Lodge will offer its traditional service and savory, chef-prepared meals. Fishing success is up to YOU! But it awaits. Since the former general manager, Brian, and at least one other long-time employee – Virginia – have been rehired, continuity of traditional guest services should be easily maintained.
Redfish Lodge can be reached at (361) 557-0047.
See ya there!
JJ
