Hey there, anglers! Ready to wet a line in some of the best inshore waters Texas has to offer? Our 6-hour private fishing trip on South Padre Island is just the ticket. We'll hit the water at 7 AM sharp, giving you prime time to tangle with redfish, flounder, and trout in the rich Lower Laguna Madre. This isn't your average day on the water - it's a chance to experience world-class inshore fishing with a local who knows every hotspot and honey hole.
Picture this: You're gliding across glassy waters as the sun peeks over the horizon, rod in hand, ready for action. That's how we kick things off on our South Padre trips. We'll cruise the Lower Laguna Madre, a shallow lagoon that's a fish magnet. This place is like a buffet for game fish - full of baitfish, crustaceans, and perfect habitat. We'll hit several spots throughout the day, from grass flats to oyster reefs, giving you a shot at a Texas inshore slam (that's catching a redfish, trout, and flounder all in one trip). Don't worry if you're new to this - I'll show you the ropes and have you casting like a pro in no time.
On these trips, we're all about versatility. We might start off sight-casting to tailing reds in the shallows, then switch to drifting and working soft plastics for trout. For the flounder, we'll work the drops and channels with live bait. I'll bring all the gear you need - light to medium action rods, an assortment of lures, and live bait when it's the ticket. We use circle hooks to make sure we're fishing responsibly and increasing our catch-and-release success. And hey, if you've got a favorite rod or lure you want to bring along, go for it! Half the fun is trying different techniques and seeing what works on any given day.
Folks who fish with us tend to get hooked (pun intended). It's not just about the fish - though trust me, when you're hooked up to a bull red in skinny water, you'll be grinning from ear to ear. It's about the whole package. The serenity of being out on the water as the coastal birds start their day. The thrill of spotting a pod of redfish tailing in the distance. The satisfaction of perfectly placing a cast and feeling that telltale thump. And let's not forget the chance to swap stories and learn new tricks. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, there's something special about a day on the Lower Laguna Madre.
Let's talk targets. Our trips focus on the Texas inshore trifecta: redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. Each one's got its own personality and quirks.
Redfish, or red drum if you're feeling fancy, are the bulldogs of the flats. These copper-colored bruisers can grow over 40 inches long and put up a fight that'll have your arms burning. They love to cruise the shallows, often with their backs out of the water, making them perfect for sight casting. When a red takes your bait, hold on tight - they're known for powerful runs that'll test your drag.
Speckled trout, despite the name, aren't trout at all - they're members of the drum family. These sleek predators are known for their spotted sides and delicate mouths. They're ambush feeders, often hanging around structure or in deeper holes. The exciting part about specks is the variety - you might catch a dozen 14-inchers or hook into a gator trout over 25 inches. They're also great eating if you're looking to take home dinner.
Flounder are the ninjas of the inshore world. These flat fish are masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy bottom. They're ambush predators, lying in wait for baitfish to swim by. Catching flounder requires finesse - a slow retrieve and keen attention to subtle bites. But when you hook one, it's like reeling in a dinner plate. They're also some of the tastiest fish in the sea, making them a favorite for anglers looking for a fish fry.
Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. This 6-hour trip is your ticket to some of the best inshore fishing Texas has to offer. We've got competitive rates, top-notch gear, and the local know-how to put you on fish. Whether you're looking to bend a rod, learn new techniques, or just enjoy a day on the water, we've got you covered. Spaces fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Give us a call or book online - we'll take care of the rest. All you need to do is show up ready for a day of fishing you won't forget. So what do you say? Ready to see what the Lower Laguna Madre has in store for you?
Summer flounder, or fluke, are a unique catch here. They're flat fish with both eyes on the left side, and they can change color to blend in with the seafloor. Most are 15-20 inches, but they can grow up to 26 pounds. You'll find them on the bottom in estuaries and offshore waters. They're ambush predators, so they like to hide in the sand waiting for prey. Fall is often the best time to target them, especially September to November. Anglers enjoy the challenge of catching flounder because of their sneaky nature and the skill required to hook them. They're also prized for their sweet, delicate flavor. To land one, try using live bait like minnows or mullet. Here's a local secret: when you feel a bite, wait a second before setting the hook. Flounder often grab the bait and swim off with it, so giving them a moment can improve your hookup rate.
Sea trout, also called speckled trout, are a blast to catch in our waters. Most run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds, though some monsters pushing 40 pounds have been caught. Look for them around grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. These fish are known for their delicate, flaky white meat. They're fun to target because they often school up, so when you find one, you've probably found a bunch. Spring and fall are typically the best seasons as the water temperatures are ideal. Sea trout put up a good fight and are known for their acrobatic leaps. To catch them, try using artificial lures like jerk baits or topwater plugs. A local tip: troll slowly along grass flats if you're having trouble locating them. And remember, in winter they tend to form big schools in deeper water, so adjust your tactics accordingly.
Redfish are a favorite target around here, and for good reason. These copper-colored beauties usually run 28-33 inches, but can get up to 45 inches and 50 pounds. You'll find them in shallow water, often just 1-4 feet deep, hanging around oyster reefs, seagrass, and mud bottoms. Fall and spring are prime seasons when they're most active. Anglers love redfish for their hard-fighting nature and excellent table fare. They put up a great battle, especially in shallow water where you might see their backs breaking the surface. The meat has a mild, sweet flavor that's versatile for cooking. To land one, try working topwater lures or shrimp imitations in the shallows. A local trick is to look for their tails sticking up out of the water as they feed - it's called "tailing" and it's a dead giveaway. When you spot that, cast beyond them and work your lure right into their path. Hold on tight when they strike!