Ready to trade that afternoon siesta for some rod-bending action? Our 5-hour private charters out of South Padre Island are just the ticket. We're talking laid-back vibes meets world-class inshore fishing in the legendary Lower Laguna Madre. Whether you're looking to introduce the kids to their first redfish or you're after that personal best speckled trout, we've got you covered. Our seasoned captains know these waters like the back of their hand, ensuring you're always on the fish, not just bobbing around hoping for a bite.
Picture this: You're cruising out on a clean, comfy boat with everything you need already on board. No need to lug gear or worry about what to bring – we've got top-notch rods, reels, and tackle all set for you. Our afternoon trips are perfect for beating the morning rush and enjoying cooler temps as the day winds down. You'll be hitting prime spots for redfish, black drum, and more, with your captain reading the water and adjusting tactics to keep those lines tight. And don't sweat it if you're new to this – we're here to show you the ropes, from casting to landing your catch.
In the Lower Laguna Madre, it's all about versatility. We might start off drifting over grass flats, tossing soft plastics for trout. If the reds are tailing in the shallows, we'll ease up with the trolling motor and sight cast to them – talk about a rush! For those big black drum, we often anchor up and fish the bottom with natural baits. Your captain's always got a few tricks up their sleeve, whether it's working a topwater lure at dusk or jigging around structure. We're not just fishing; we're matching wits with some of the smartest inshore species out there.
While we don't have specific customer reviews to share, our trips consistently deliver memorable experiences and impressive catches. Anglers of all skill levels have been thrilled with the quality of fishing and the personalized attention from our guides. Many guests have commented on how much they've learned, the excitement of battling hard-fighting fish, and the beautiful scenery of South Padre Island.
Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are the stars of South Texas inshore fishing. Redfish, or red drum, are known for their powerful runs and distinctive spot near the tail. In the fall, they school up in big numbers, offering non-stop action. But year-round, you can find them cruising the flats or hanging around structure. When a big red takes off, you'll know why anglers get hooked on these fish for life.
Black Drum: Don't let their ugly mugs fool you – black drum are a blast to catch and great on the dinner table. These cousins of the redfish can grow to massive sizes, with some old-timers topping 50 pounds. We typically target the smaller "puppy drum" in the 5-15 pound range. They love crustaceans, so we often use shrimp or crab for bait. When you feel that telltale thump-thump of a drum bite, get ready for a stubborn fight.
Speckled Trout: While not listed as a primary target, no trip to the Lower Laguna Madre is complete without mentioning specks. These spotted beauties are prized for their delicate flavor and the challenge they present to anglers. Trout fishing here can be off the charts, especially around dawn and dusk. They're suckers for a well-presented lure, and when they're feeding on the surface, it's some of the most exciting fishing you'll experience.
Flounder: Another bonus species you might encounter, flounder are the ninjas of the flats. These flatfish are masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the bottom. But man, are they good eating! We often find them around drop-offs or structure, and they're suckers for a slowly dragged soft plastic. Landing a big flounder is always cause for celebration – and a tasty dinner.
It's not just about the fish – though that's a big part of it. Our afternoon charters offer something special. You're out there as the sun starts to dip, painting the sky in Texas-sized colors. The water takes on that golden hour glow, and often, that's when the bite really turns on. Our guests love the relaxed pace compared to crack-of-dawn trips, and there's nothing like coming back to the dock with a cooler full of fish, ready to hit one of SPI's great restaurants to cap off the perfect day.
We take pride in tailoring each trip to our guests. Want to focus on learning new techniques? We've got you. Just want to reel in as many fish as possible? We can make that happen. Hoping to land that trophy red you've always dreamed of? We'll put you in the right spot at the right time. It's this attention to detail and personalized approach that keeps folks coming back year after year.
Look, the fish are out there waiting, and our calendar fills up fast – especially during peak seasons. Whether you're a local looking for a quick fishing fix or a visitor wanting to experience the best of South Texas inshore action, our 5-hour afternoon charters are the way to go. With Lone Star Charters TX, you're not just booking a fishing trip; you're setting yourself up for memories that'll last a lifetime. So grab your hat, slap on some sunscreen, and let's get out on the water. The Lower Laguna Madre is calling, and trust me, you don't want to miss what she's got to offer. Book now, and get ready to see why South Padre Island is a top-rated destination for anglers in the know. We'll see you at the dock!
Black drum are the bulldogs of our local waters. These powerful fish can grow up to 90 pounds, but we mostly catch 'em in the 5-30 pound range. You'll find them hanging around oyster beds, mudflats, and creek mouths in the Laguna Madre. They make a distinctive croaking sound, which is pretty cool to hear when you're reeling one in. Spring is prime time as they school up to spawn, making them easier to target. Black drum put up a stubborn fight and smaller ones make good eating too. They've got a face only a mother could love, with those funky whiskers, but don't let that fool you - they're a blast to catch. For best results, use fresh crab or shrimp and fish it right on the bottom. Just remember, the bigger ones can be tough and not as tasty, so consider releasing those over 15 pounds.
Redfish are a favorite here in South Padre. These copper-colored beauties typically run 20-30 inches and put up a great fight. You'll find them cruising the shallow flats and around oyster bars in the Laguna Madre. They love munching on crabs and shrimp, so those make great bait choices. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but you can catch them year-round. Redfish are known for their distinctive tail spot and for "tailing" - when their backs and tails break the surface as they root for food in super shallow water. It's a sight that gets any angler's heart pumping. They're also delicious eating fish if you want to keep a few for dinner. Local tip: On calm days, look for their wakes in the shallows and cast ahead of them for your best shot at a hook-up.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 46
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250