Ready to hit the water for some of the best fishing Galveston Bay has to offer? Our 8-hour private charter is the real deal, folks. Whether you're itching to throw lures, work those topwaters, or just kick back and soak some bait, we've got you covered. And hey, fly fishermen - we see you! This trip is perfect for everyone from first-timers to old salts who've been fishing these waters for decades. Our guides know every nook and cranny of the bay, and they're dead set on making sure you have a day to remember. Just tell us what you're after, and we'll tailor the trip to fit. That's the beauty of Galveston Bay - there's something here for every angler.
When you step aboard one of our boats, you're in for a treat. We'll start by going over the game plan for the day, based on what you're hoping to catch and what's biting. The beauty of an 8-hour trip is we've got time to try a few different spots and techniques. Maybe we'll start off drifting some oyster reefs for trout, then move to the flats to sight-cast for reds. Or if you're keen on flounder, we might work some marsh drains or deep holes. Our guides are always keeping an eye on the tides, wind, and water clarity to put you on the fish. And don't worry if you're new to this - we're happy to show you the ropes, from rigging up to setting the hook just right.
On this trip, we'll use whatever methods are working best that day. If the fish are aggressive, we might throw soft plastics or topwater lures. There's nothing quite like seeing a big trout or red blow up on a topwater plug! If things are a bit slower, we might switch to live bait like shrimp or croaker. For you fly anglers, we've got some killer patterns that the local fish can't resist. We'll show you how to work a popping cork, the best way to twitch a jig, or how to present that fly just right. And if you've got a technique you're itching to try, let us know - we're always game to switch things up.
Galveston Bay is home to some fantastic inshore species, and on this trip, we've got a shot at several crowd favorites. Let's break 'em down:
Southern Flounder: These flatfish are the masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the bay bottom. They love to hang around structure like jetties and drop-offs. Fall is prime time for flounder, when they start their migration to the Gulf. They put up a great fight and make for some mighty fine eating. We'll target them with soft plastics or live bait, working it slowly along the bottom.
Black Drum: These bruisers can grow to over 40 pounds in the bay. They've got a distinctive "croaking" sound and those whisker-like barbels under their chin. Spring is fantastic for big spawning drum, but we catch them year-round. They love crustaceans, so we often use shrimp or crab for bait. When a big one hits, hold on tight!
Speckled Sea Trout: Also known as spotted seatrout, these are probably the most popular game fish in the bay. They're aggressive feeders and will hit everything from topwater lures to live shrimp. We find them around oyster reefs, grass flats, and deeper channels. The "gator" trout (over 25 inches) are the stuff of Galveston legends.
Redfish: Ah, the mighty red drum. These copper-colored beauties are known for their distinctive spot near the tail. They can be found in the shallows, often with their tails sticking out of the water as they root for crabs and shrimp. Sight-casting to tailing reds is one of the most exciting ways to fish the bay. They'll test your gear and your skills, especially when they make those blistering runs.
Folks, there's a reason why Galveston Bay keeps drawing anglers back year after year. It's not just about the fish - though trust me, there are plenty of those. It's about the whole experience. Picture this: you're out on the water as the sun's coming up, pelicans diving around you, and that salty breeze in your face. Maybe you'll see a pod of dolphins or a stingray gliding by. And when you hook into that first fish of the day, whether it's a bull red or a chunky trout, you'll feel that rush that only fishing can give you. Our guides aren't just here to put you on fish - they're here to share their love for this incredible ecosystem and to make sure you have a day you'll be talking about for years to come.
Alright, let's not beat around the bush - if you're looking for a top-notch fishing experience in Galveston Bay, this 8-hour charter is the way to go. We've got the knowledge, we've got the spots, and we've got the passion to make sure you have an awesome day on the water. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler or just enjoy some quality time with friends or family, we've got you covered. Remember, we welcome anglers of all skill levels, so don't be shy if you're new to this. And for you experienced folks, well, we might just show you a trick or two. So what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, and we've got a spot on the boat with your name on it. Give us a call, and let's get you out on Galveston Bay for a fishing trip you won't forget. Tight lines, y'all!
Black Drum are the heavyweights of Galveston Bay, with some old-timers pushing 90 pounds. Most we catch run 5-30 pounds though. Look for them around oyster beds, mudflats, and in brackish water. Spring's prime time when they school up to spawn. Drum put up a great fight and make that signature croaking sound that'll get your heart racing. For eating, stick to the smaller ones under 15 pounds – better flavor and texture. To land one, try using fresh crab or shrimp on the bottom. My go-to trick is chumming with crushed oyster shells to get them fired up. Just listen for that drumming sound and you'll know you're in the right spot. These guys aren't picky eaters, but they've got a nose for fresh bait.
Redfish are the rockstars of Galveston Bay, with their copper color and distinctive black spot near the tail. Most we catch run 20-30 inches, but bull reds can top 40. You'll find them tailing in super shallow water, often with their backs out of the water. They love hanging around oyster reefs, marsh edges, and grass flats. Fall's prime time when they school up to spawn. Reds are prized for their strong fights and tasty, firm flesh. To target 'em, try sight-casting with gold spoons or soft plastics. My local tip: on calm days, look for their wakes or tails breaking the surface. Move in quietly and make a precise cast – it's a rush when they explode on your lure in knee-deep water.
Sea Trout, or Speckled Trout as we call 'em, are a favorite here in Galveston Bay. They usually run 14-24 inches, but some monsters hit 30+. You'll find them in grass flats, around oyster reefs, and near deeper channels. They're most active at dawn and dusk, especially on moving tides. Trout are known for their light, flaky meat and the exciting topwater action they provide. Winter's actually a great time to target big ones in deeper holes. For best results, try live shrimp under a popping cork or work a soft plastic slowly along the bottom. Here's a tip: when you see birds diving, there's often trout feeding below. Cast into the frenzy and hold on tight – these guys hit hard and fast!
Southern Flounder are masters of camouflage, blending seamlessly with sandy or muddy bottoms in Galveston Bay. These flat fish typically range from 15-18 inches, but can grow up to a whopping 33 inches. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. Fall's the prime time to target flounder as they migrate to spawn. Anglers love 'em for their delicate, white meat and the challenge of hooking these bottom-dwellers. To up your chances, try drifting or still fishing with live bait like mullet or shrimp. Here's a local trick: when you feel a bite, resist the urge to set the hook right away. Give the flounder a few seconds to fully take the bait, then reel in steadily. It's all about patience with these guys.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 60
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250