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Caught a Redfish Inshore in Matagorda
Redfish Fishing in Matagorda
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The Sciaenops Ocellatus belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. It typically measures between 30 and 61 inches in length, with a weight range from 10 to 45 lbs. Habitat: onshore, flats, backcountry, nearshore. - Redfish are also known as Red Drum and are prized game fish. - They can be identified by distinctive black spots near the tail. - These fish have copper-red backs that fade to white bellies.
Fishing Charter by Captain Joe Guerra in October
Meet your Captain Joe Guerra
- Reel the Best of Matagorda with Captain Joe Guerra
Summary
Captain Joe Guerra of Bay Finatic Fishing Guide Service on Friday October offers tournament-style inshore fishing charters targeting redfish and speckled trout in Matagorda Bay. Our 7-hour guided fishing trips focus on drift fishing, bottom fishing, and lure casting techniques that consistently produce results in these productive Texas waters. Matagorda Bay's structure and current breaks hold fish year-round, making it excellent for inshore fishing adventures. We provide all equipment for teams up to 4 anglers, specializing in tournament preparation and team-building experiences. Clear fall conditions and steady action make this the perfect time to book your Matagorda Bay fishing charter with our experienced local guides.
Fishing Charter with Captain Joe Guerra – Rates & Booking
Captain Joe Guerra of Bay Finatic Fishing Guide Service on Friday October runs tournament-style inshore charters from Matagorda Bay. Our 7-hour guided fishing trips accommodate teams of 4 anglers with all equipment provided, including tackle for drift fishing, bottom fishing, and lure casting. Captain Joe specializes in tournament preparation and knows the prime spots where redfish and speckled trout hold consistently. Rates include licensed guide service, center console boat, and all fishing gear. Book online or call to reserve your Matagorda Bay fishing adventure.
Highlights of Full Day Guided Fishing Tournament Charter in Matagorda
This tournament-style charter focuses on the techniques that win competitions: drift fishing over structure, bottom fishing in current breaks, and precision lure casting to target redfish and speckled trout. Captain Joe provides tournament-level guidance so your team can focus purely on fishing rather than navigation or gear management. The 7-hour duration allows us to work multiple spots as conditions change throughout the day.
Matagorda Bay's shallow flats and backcountry areas create ideal habitat for inshore species. The consistent structure and current flow concentrate fish in predictable areas, giving tournament teams the edge they need. Fall conditions typically offer clear water and active fish, making this season particularly productive for competitive fishing.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish thrive in Matagorda Bay's shallow waters, feeding actively around structure and current breaks where we focus our tournament techniques. These copper-colored fish with distinctive black spots respond well to both live bait and artificial lures, making them perfect targets for competitive fishing. October brings excellent redfish action as they move through the bay system, often schooling in areas where drift fishing and bottom fishing produce consistent results. Captain Joe knows the seasonal patterns and can position your team where the fish are most active throughout the day.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Our center console boat comfortably accommodates tournament teams of 4 anglers with all necessary equipment provided. We launch early to maximize fishing time during the most productive hours. Captain Joe handles all navigation and boat positioning while providing tournament-level guidance on techniques and timing. Safety equipment and fishing licenses are your responsibility, but we supply all tackle, rods, and bait needed for a successful day on Matagorda Bay.
Fishing in Matagorda: Redfish
Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, belong to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. These distinctive copper-colored game fish are easily identified by their characteristic black spots near the tail and reddish backs that fade to white bellies. In Matagorda waters this October, redfish provide excellent tournament fishing opportunities for anglers targeting inshore species.
Redfish Overview
Redfish are highly prized game fish found along the Gulf Coast, known for their fighting ability and light, flaky meat. They're a cornerstone species for inshore fishing tournaments due to their predictable behavior and willingness to take both live bait and artificial lures. Anglers value redfish for their strong runs and ability to test light tackle in shallow water.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
These fish prefer shallow coastal waters ranging from 1 to 4 feet deep, thriving in flats, backcountry areas, and nearshore environments. Around Matagorda Bay, redfish frequent grass flats, oyster reefs, and current breaks where they ambush prey. They're particularly abundant in the shallow bays and marsh systems that characterize the Texas coast.
Redfish Size and Weight
Redfish typically range from 30 to 61 inches in length, with weights between 10 and 45 pounds for mature fish. Slot-size redfish (20-28 inches) are most commonly targeted by tournament anglers, while larger bull redfish over 40 inches provide trophy opportunities in deeper nearshore waters.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Redfish are opportunistic feeders that hunt crabs, shrimp, mullet, and other baitfish in shallow water. They often feed by tailing in very shallow areas, creating visible disturbances that alert anglers to their presence. During October, redfish become more active as water temperatures cool, making them excellent targets for tournament fishing.
Redfish Spawning Season
Redfish spawn in nearshore waters during fall months, typically from August through November. During this period, they form large schools and become more aggressive, making fall an ideal time for tournament fishing. Water temperatures between 70-80°F trigger peak spawning activity.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Tournament anglers target redfish using drift fishing with live shrimp or cut bait, bottom fishing around structure, and casting spoons or soft plastics to visible fish. Popular techniques include sight fishing on shallow flats, working oyster reefs with jigs, and drifting grass beds with live bait. In October around Matagorda, anglers find success using gold spoons and paddle tail soft plastics in areas with moving water.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offer excellent table fare with mild, flaky white meat that's high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. The flesh has a slightly sweet flavor and firm texture that works well grilled, blackened, or fried. Slot-size redfish (20-28 inches) provide the best eating quality, while larger fish are often released for conservation.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish?
A: Live shrimp, cut mullet, and blue crab are top natural baits, while gold spoons, soft plastic paddle tails, and topwater plugs work well for artificial lures.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Matagorda?
A: Look for redfish on shallow grass flats, around oyster reefs, and in backcountry areas with 1-4 feet of water. Current breaks and structure hold fish consistently.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish have mild, flaky white meat that's excellent grilled or blackened. Slot-size fish (20-28 inches) offer the best table quality.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?
A: Fall months like October provide excellent redfish action as they become more active in cooler water temperatures and form schools for spawning.
More species you can explore on this trip
Bay Finatic Fishing Guide Service LLC Available Trips
Ready to reel in some tournament glory? Join Captain Joe and the Bayfinatic team for a full day of competitive fishing action in beautiful Matagorda Bay. Our experienced guides know these waters like the back of their hand and will put you on the hottest spots to maximize your chances of landing that winning catch. Hop aboard our spacious center console boat with room for up to 3 anglers plus your captain. We'll provide all the top-notch gear you need, but feel free to bring your lucky rod if you prefer. This charter is perfect for serious tournament anglers looking to gain an edge, as well as corporate groups wanting a unique team-building experience on the water. Just grab your fishing license, sign up for the tournament, and let us handle the rest. With Bayfinatic at the helm, you can focus 100% on the fishing and bringing home that trophy. Don't miss your chance to fish Matagorda Bay like a pro - book your tournament charter today!
