Ready for some quality time with the kids and a chance to reel in some Texas-sized memories? Our 5-hour private fishing trip in South Padre Island is just the ticket. We'll cruise the calm waters of the Lower Laguna Madre, where the fish are always biting and the scenery never disappoints. Whether you're teaching the little ones to bait a hook or looking to land that trophy redfish, our seasoned captains know all the sweet spots to make your day on the water a success.
Picture this: You're out on a pristine boat, the sun's warming your face, and the kids are giggling with excitement as they watch their lines. That's what you're in for with our family-friendly charter. We keep things easy-going and fun, perfect for anglers of all skill levels. Our captains are part fishing guide, part cheerleader, and all about making sure everyone has a blast. We'll hit up some of the best inshore fishing spots, where redfish, speckled trout, and flounder love to hang out. And don't worry about bringing gear - we've got you covered with quality rods, reels, and bait.
Ever tried sight casting? It's like a game of hide and seek with fish, and it's a blast for kids and adults alike. We'll teach you how to spot those tell-tale signs of fish movement and how to cast your line just right. For the younger crowd, we might start with some good old-fashioned bottom fishing. It's an easy technique that often leads to quick catches - perfect for building confidence and keeping the little ones engaged. And if the bite is on, we might try some drift fishing, letting the boat do the work while we wait for the big ones to strike. No matter what, you'll be picking up new skills and tricks that'll have you fishing like a local in no time.
Let's talk about what's been biting lately. The redfish have been on fire, with many anglers pulling in some real beauties in the 20-30 inch range. These copper-colored fighters put up a great battle and are a favorite among our guests. The speckled trout action has been hot too, especially early in the morning when they're feeding near the grass flats. And if you're lucky, you might even hook into a flounder - they're not as common, but they make for some mighty fine eating if you decide to keep your catch. Remember, our trips are catch-and-release by default, but if you want to take home dinner, just let us know and we'll make sure you're following all the local regulations.
Black Drum: These big, powerful fish are like the bulldogs of the bay. They can grow up to 30 pounds or more, and when they take your bait, hold on tight! Black drum love to hang out near structure and oyster beds. They're most active in the cooler months, making them a perfect target for fall and winter trips. Kids love catching these brutes because they really put up a fight, and there's nothing quite like seeing a youngster's face light up when they land their first big drum.
Sea Trout: Also known as speckled trout, these fish are the bread and butter of South Padre inshore fishing. They're beautiful to look at, with silvery bodies covered in dark spots and a distinctive yellow mouth. Sea trout are fun to catch because they often hit lures aggressively, making for some exciting topwater action. They're around all year, but the bigger ones, which we call "gator trout," are most common in the spring and fall. If you're looking to improve your casting skills, targeting trout is a great way to do it.
Redfish: Ah, the mighty red drum - or redfish as we call 'em down here. These copper-colored beauties are prized for their hard-fighting nature and their distinctive black spot near the tail. Redfish can be found in the shallows, often with their tails sticking out of the water as they root around for crabs and shrimp. This makes for some heart-pounding sight fishing opportunities. They're available year-round, but the fall "bull red" run, when the big ones come inshore to spawn, is something every angler should experience at least once.
Folks who fish with us tend to make it a family tradition, and it's easy to see why. The Lower Laguna Madre is like Mother Nature's own fishing park - shallow, protected waters teeming with fish, and scenery that'll have you reaching for your camera as much as your fishing rod. Our boats are set up for comfort, so even if someone in your group isn't into fishing, they can still enjoy the ride and maybe spot some dolphins or sea turtles. And let's be honest, there's something special about watching your kid reel in their first fish or seeing grandpa high-five his grandson after landing a big one. Those are the moments that stick with you, long after you've left the dock.
So, what do you say? Ready to make some waves and create some lasting memories with the family? Our 5-hour trip is the perfect length - long enough to get into some serious fishing, but not so long that the little ones get antsy. And with our experienced captains at the helm, you're in for a day of fun, learning, and hopefully, plenty of fish in the cooler. Don't let another season slip by without getting out on the water. The fish are biting, the boat is ready, and we've got a spot saved just for you and your crew. Give us a call or book online - let's go fishing!
Redfish are a local favorite here in South Padre. These copper-colored beauties typically run 20-30 inches and put up an exciting fight. You'll find them cruising the shallow flats and grass beds of the Laguna Madre, often in just a foot or two of water. They love to hang around oyster reefs and shorelines too. Fall and spring are prime seasons, but we catch them year-round. Redfish are popular because they're aggressive feeders and strong fighters - when one hits your line, you'll know it! They also make excellent table fare with a mild, sweet flavor. To target reds, we'll use light tackle and artificial lures like topwater plugs or soft plastics. My go-to trick is to work a gold spoon slowly along the bottom - redfish can't resist it. Keep an eye out for their telltale copper backs or tails sticking up out of the water as they feed. Landing one of these bulldogs is always a thrill, whether you're a beginner or seasoned angler.
Black drum are the bulldogs of our bays, with most weighing 5-30 pounds, though they can get much bigger. You'll find them in the shallows near oyster beds and mudflats, often in water less than 3 feet deep. They're bottom feeders, so we target them with natural baits like crab or shrimp. Spring is prime time for drum fishing when they school up to spawn, but we catch them year-round. Anglers love drum for their strong fight and good eating, especially the smaller ones under 15 pounds. The bigger ones can be tough and less tasty, so we usually release those. To land a black drum, patience is key. Use a simple bottom rig with fresh bait and wait for that telltale thump. My local trick is to look for "tailing" drum - when their tails stick up out of the water as they root around for food. Cast near those tails, and you're in for some fun. Just be ready for a stubborn fight when you hook one!
Sea trout, or speckled trout as we call 'em, are a staple in our waters. Most run 14-20 inches, but we occasionally hook into some real gators over 25 inches. You'll find these guys in the grass flats, channels, and around structure in 3-6 feet of water. They like moving water, so fishing the tide changes can be productive. Spring and fall are peak seasons, but sea trout bite year-round here. Anglers love targeting them because they school up, so when you find one, you often find many. They're also known for their delicate, flaky white meat - perfect for a fresh fish dinner. To catch sea trout, we'll use light tackle and soft plastic lures or live shrimp under a popping cork. My local tip: work your lure with a slow, steady retrieve and occasional twitches. Sea trout are sight feeders and can't resist a lure that looks like an injured baitfish. It's a blast when a school gets fired up and you can catch one after another.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 46
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250