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Black drum are powerful bottom-feeding fish found throughout Texas coastal waters. They use sensitive barbels under their chin to locate crabs, shrimp, and mollusks in muddy bottoms. - Can live over 40 years and reach trophy sizes. - Younger fish have distinct black stripes that fade with age. - Make drumming sounds using specialized muscles.
Captain Joe Guerra of Bay Finatic Fishing Guide Service offers productive inshore fishing charters in Matagorda's rich coastal waters. These guided trips target black drum, sheepshead, and other popular gamefish around structure-rich areas where these species thrive. With local knowledge of seasonal patterns and productive spots, Captain Guerra provides all necessary tackle and bait for a successful day on the water. Book your Matagorda fishing charter and experience some of the Texas coast's most consistent inshore action.
Captain Joe Guerra of Bay Finatic Fishing Guide Service offers full-day and half-day fishing charters targeting black drum, sheepshead, and other inshore species around Matagorda. These trips include all tackle, bait, and ice, with the captain providing local expertise on seasonal patterns and productive fishing spots. Rates vary by trip length and group size, with advance booking recommended during peak fishing months. Contact Captain Guerra directly for current availability and pricing details.
Matagorda's extensive bay system and nearshore structure create ideal habitat for black drum and sheepshead. The area's jetties, reefs, and oyster beds hold fish year-round, with spring and fall offering particularly strong action. Captain Guerra focuses on these structure-rich areas where black drum feed on crabs and shellfish, while sheepshead work the pilings and rocks for barnacles and small crustaceans.
The shallow bay waters warm quickly in spring, drawing fish into feeding mode, while cooler fall temperatures trigger aggressive feeding behavior before winter. These seasonal patterns, combined with Matagorda's protected waters, make for consistent fishing opportunities throughout much of the year.
Black drum are among Matagorda's most reliable inshore targets, with fish ranging from keeper-sized specimens to trophy bulls exceeding 30 pounds. These bottom-feeders prefer areas with oyster shell, mud bottoms, and structure where they can root for crabs and mollusks. Sheepshead, known for their distinctive black stripes and excellent table fare, concentrate around hard structure like jetties and bridge pilings where they pick off barnacles and small crustaceans with their strong, human-like teeth.
Both species respond well to natural baits like blue crab, shrimp, and oysters, though sheepshead require particularly sharp hooks and quick hook-sets due to their notorious bait-stealing abilities. Captain Guerra's local knowledge helps anglers position correctly around structure and present baits effectively for these sometimes finicky but rewarding targets.
Bay Finatic Fishing Guide Service operates from Matagorda with all necessary equipment provided, including rods, reels, tackle, bait, and ice for your catch. Trips typically accommodate up to four anglers, with departure times adjusted based on tides and seasonal fish activity. Captain Guerra recommends bringing sun protection, snacks, and drinks, while he handles navigation, fish cleaning, and local fishing strategy. The boat is equipped for comfort and safety, making these trips suitable for anglers of all experience levels.