Exploring Sargent TX: A Guide to the Beach and K0UO/P Steven Walz
- skylarkcolo
- Nov 16, 2022
- 7 min read
Updated: Feb 5
Sargent, Texas, on the Gulf of America offers a unique coastal experience that blends natural beauty with a laid-back atmosphere. This small beach community on the Gulf Coast is a hidden gem for visitors seeking quiet shores, fishing opportunities, and a connection to local culture. Among the interesting aspects of Sargent is the presence of amateur radio operator K0UO/P, Steven Walz, who adds a fascinating dimension to the area’s appeal. This guide explores what makes Sargent’s beach special and highlights of the area.
Salt water QTH is Alibi Fishing Retreat, Salt Water ham station near Sargent Beach, Texas it is fun to ham from this great Gulf Coast of America location
Discovering Sargent Beach
Above, looking West: The Main Cut to the American Gulf, from the Intercoastal Canal (Mitchell's Cut) great fishing.
East Matagorda Bay and Intercoastal Canal on the top right, the Gulf is on the left. The cut allows boat passage to the gulf for offshore fishing and shrimping, and is vital to the live bait and shrimp sales for the community. The "Cut" (known as the Caney Creek Gulf Cut, or Mitchell's Cut) is the only pass from the towns of Freeport to Matagorda and has obvious importance to Sargent, and the people who live in the general area.
What Makes Sargent Beach Special
Quiet and uncrowded: Unlike nearby beaches in Galveston or Corpus Christi, Sargent remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. This means fewer crowds and more space to relax.
Fishing opportunities: The area is known for excellent fishing, both from the shore and nearby piers. Anglers can catch species like redfish, speckled trout, and flounder.
Natural surroundings: The beach is bordered by marshes and wetlands, providing habitat for diverse bird species and marine life. Birdwatchers and nature lovers will find plenty to explore.
Family-friendly environment: The calm waters and gentle waves make it a safe spot for children to play and swim.
Activities to Enjoy at Sargent Beach
Visitors can engage in a variety of activities that highlight the natural charm of the area:
Beach combing and shell collecting: The shoreline often reveals interesting shells and small marine treasures.
Kayaking and paddle boarding: The calm Gulf waters are perfect for paddling sports.
Picnicking and camping: Several spots near the beach allow for day picnics or overnight camping under the stars.
Bird watching: The nearby wetlands attract species such as herons, egrets, and pelicans.
View from the Air of the cut to the Gulf (Mitchell's Cut) BIG PROJECT HAS BEEN OKED, Army Corp of Engineers for Stabilization and Nourishment Project at Sargent Beach Dec 2025
The Sargent Beach area of Matagorda County has one of the highest historical erosion rates on the Texas Gulf coast. Erosion rates vary from 42.88 feet/year at the shoreline near Mitchell's Cut on the far west area of Sargent Beach to 20-23 feet/year along the "historic" section of Sargent Beach, east of FM 457. Hurricane Harvey in August 2017, plus the series of storms during the 2020 Atlantic storm season, all contributed to the significant loss of any sort of beach or sand in the area, exposing the underlying Beaumont clay and pushing the shoreline landward all the way to the USACE protectional granite revetment along the historic section of Sargent Beach.
This project will first construct a rock terminal groin adjacent to the north side of Mitchell’s Cut and build five (5) nearshore rock breakwaters. Next, the project will complete an approximately 1 million cubic yard beach nourishment effort utilizing beach-quality material to be dredged by USACE from the mouth of the Colorado River inlet. Additionally, GLO funds are being used to rebuild County Road 238 to restore public access to the boat ramp located at the western end of Sargent Beach. These efforts will stabilize the shoreline, slowing the impacts of the significant erosive forces in the area and preventing additional land loss. The beach nourishment component will rebuild a valuable public access feature, allowing the public to once again have ocean access and a place to recreate in this area of Matagorda County.
The USACE estimates the project will be complete in July 2027 and cost an estimated $86 million.
The Role of K0UO/P Steven Walz in Sargent
Steven Walz, known by his amateur radio call sign K0UO/P, is a part time figure in the Sargent community.
The Salt Water QTH is on the Gulf coast near Sargent,TX
K0UO/P, the Salt Water station near Sargent Beach, Texas, "The Best Kept Secret on the Gulf coast of America, East Matagorda Bay, the Alibi Fishing Retreat". Four RV Pads with "30/50 amp and full hook-ups" and a Fish Camp Bunk Cabin that sleeps eight!
Alibi Fishing Retreat QTH, and it is fun to ham from this great Gulf Coast salt water location
Sargent is a fishing, boating, and water sports community, with its proximity to the Gulf of America, East Matagorda Bay Texas, the Intercoastal Waterway (ICW), and Caney Creek, is home base to many commercial and sport fisherman and shrimpers. Red drum (aka Redfish), Spotted Sea-trout (aka Speckled Trout), Flounder, Blue Crab, oysters, and shrimp are among the local favorites makes it a great sea side QTH. You can go to bed in the evening after watching the beautiful sunsets and wake up to the roar of the ocean waves. Jon KE0DCO my sons has developed many properties in Sargent over the years.
Sargent is relatively unknown. It doesn't even have it's own zip code and there are almost no signs pointing the way. The access to the Island was via the last swing bridge in Texas. It is tended 24 hours a day by a bridge keeper. Crime is relatively non- existent on the Island since every one coming or going must pass under the watchful eyes of the bridge keeper. Talk about a unique security system. The Island has a panoramic view of the Intercoastal Canal & the National Wildlife Refuge is awesome. Many people feel that the sunsets over the Beach and the Intracoastal Waterway on east Matagorda are the best in Texas. You can literally see for miles in any direction.
Sargent is a fishing, boating, and water sports community, with its proximity to the Gulf of America, East Matagorda Bay Texas, the Intercoastal Waterway (ICW), and Caney Creek, is home base to many commercial and sport fisherman and shrimpers. Red drum (aka Redfish), Spotted Sea-trout (aka Speckled Trout), Flounder, Blue Crab, oysters, and shrimp are among the local favorites makes it a great sea side QTH.
Steven Walz
is an long time amateur radio operator who frequently operates portable stations from various locations, including Sargent Beach. His callsign, K0UO/P, identifies him as a licensed ham radio operator who often participates in field operations and contests.
Listen for K0UO/P on the airwaves: If you have ham radio, try tuning in to Steven’s frequencies during his portable operations.
There at least list three other full time hams in Sargent
What Does K0UO/P Mean?
K0UO: This is Steven’s unique callsign, assigned by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
/P: The suffix “/P” stands for “portable,” indicating that Steven operates his radio equipment away from his primary station, often outdoors or in temporary locations.
How to Experience Sargent and Connect with K0UO/P Steven Walz
If you plan to visit Sargent Beach, there are ways to enjoy both the natural environment and the ham radio culture.
Visiting the Beach
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer visitors. Summer can be hot but still enjoyable for water activities.
Where to stay: Options include vacation rentals, small motels, and campgrounds near the beach.
Local amenities: While Sargent is quiet, nearby towns provide grocery stores, restaurants, and fishing supply shops.
Tips for a Great Visit to Sargent Beach
Pack sunscreen and insect repellent, especially if you plan to explore the wetlands.
Bring fishing gear if you want to try your luck from the shore or piers.
Respect the natural environment by avoiding litter and staying on designated paths.
Check local weather and tide conditions before heading out.
If interested in ham radio, bring your equipment and be ready to connect with operators like Steven.
Food and Fun
Final Thoughts on Sargent TX and K0UO/P Steven Walz
Sargent, Texas, offers a peaceful beach experience away from busy tourist spots. Its natural beauty and fishing opportunities make it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The presence hams adds a special touch, connecting this coastal community to the wider world through amateur radio. Whether you come for the sand and surf or to explore ham radio, Sargent provides a welcoming and memorable experience.
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