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Caught a Trophy Redfish Inshore in Matagorda
Redfish Fishing in Matagorda Bay
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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 gamefish. - They can be identified by distinctive eyespots near the tail. - These fish have a red-colored back that fades to a white belly.
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 Monday October offers exceptional inshore fishing charters targeting redfish in the productive waters of Matagorda Bay. This 5-hour guided fishing adventure combines drift fishing, bottom fishing, and casting techniques to maximize your catch potential in Texas's premier coastal fishery. Our experienced captain knows exactly where to find feeding redfish using proven methods that work best in these shallow bay waters. Whether you're working the flats for sight-casting opportunities or drifting productive structure, Matagorda Bay delivers consistent action for anglers of all skill levels. The fall season brings excellent fishing conditions with clear water and active fish, making it an ideal time to experience what many consider the best inshore fishing on the Texas coast.
Fishing Charter with Captain Joe Guerra – Rates & Booking
Captain Joe Guerra of Bay Finatic Fishing Guide Service on Monday October provides half-day fishing charters in Matagorda Bay for up to 2 anglers. This 5-hour guided adventure targets redfish, speckled trout, black drum, sheepshead, and flounder using drift fishing, bottom fishing, and casting techniques. The trip includes all necessary tackle and an experienced local guide who knows the most productive spots in these waters. Weekday trips are available by appointment, giving you flexibility to plan your fishing adventure. Contact Bay Finatic Fishing Guide Service to check availability and secure your Matagorda Bay charter.
Highlights of Half Day Guided Fishing Trip In Matagorda Bay - Redfish, speckled trout And More
Matagorda Bay offers some of Texas's most consistent inshore fishing, with shallow flats and deeper structure providing diverse fishing opportunities. The bay's current patterns and natural features create ideal holding spots for feeding redfish, making it perfect for both sight-casting and blind-casting techniques. Fall conditions bring clear water and active fish, with early morning trips offering the best bite when redfish are most aggressive.
Captain Joe Guerra specializes in reading these waters and adjusting techniques based on conditions, whether that means working lures through the shallows or drifting productive drop-offs. The combination of local knowledge and proven methods gives anglers the best chance at landing quality fish in this premier Texas coastal fishery.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish thrive in Matagorda Bay's shallow waters, using the grass flats and oyster structure as feeding grounds and ambush points. These copper-colored fighters are most active during moving tides when baitfish are pushed through the shallows. October brings excellent redfish action as cooler water temperatures trigger increased feeding activity, making fall one of the most productive seasons for targeting these prized gamefish in Texas waters.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your 5-hour charter includes all fishing tackle, with Captain Joe providing rods, reels, and a selection of lures and baits proven effective in Matagorda Bay. The boat accommodates up to 2 anglers comfortably, allowing for personalized instruction and plenty of room to fight fish. Early morning departures maximize fishing time during peak feeding periods, and the captain will adjust techniques throughout the trip based on conditions and fish activity. Bring your Texas fishing license, sun protection, and drinks for a comfortable day on the water.
Fishing in Matagorda: Redfish
The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, is a premier gamefish from the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. Distinguished by their copper-red coloration and distinctive black eyespots near the tail, these powerful fish are highly prized by anglers throughout the Gulf Coast. In Matagorda waters this October, redfish provide consistent action for both novice and experienced anglers targeting the shallow bay systems.
Redfish Overview
Redfish are robust, hard-fighting gamefish that inhabit coastal waters from the Atlantic to the Gulf of Mexico. They're known for their distinctive copper-bronze coloration, powerful runs, and the characteristic black spots near their tail fin. Anglers value redfish for their fighting ability and excellent table fare, making them one of the most sought-after inshore species.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
These adaptable fish thrive in shallow coastal waters, grass flats, oyster reefs, and backcountry areas. Redfish prefer water depths from 1 to 4 feet but can be found in deeper channels and nearshore waters. Around Matagorda Bay, they utilize the extensive grass flats and oyster structure as feeding grounds and nursery areas.
Redfish Size and Weight
Redfish typically range from 30 to 61 inches in length, with weights between 10 and 45 pounds. Slot-size fish (20-28 inches) are most commonly caught in bay systems, while larger bull redfish are often found in nearshore waters during spawning runs.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Redfish are opportunistic feeders that consume crabs, shrimp, mullet, and various baitfish. They often feed in shallow water with their tails exposed, creating the exciting sight-fishing opportunities that make them so popular. These fish are most active during moving tides when prey is displaced from cover.
Redfish Spawning Season
Spawning occurs in nearshore waters from late summer through fall, typically when water temperatures range from 70-80°F. During this period, mature redfish form large schools in deeper water before moving offshore to spawn, creating excellent fishing opportunities.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Effective techniques include sight-casting with spoons and soft plastics, drift fishing with live or cut bait, and working topwater lures over grass flats. Popular baits include live shrimp, mullet, and crab, while artificial lures like gold spoons, paddle-tail soft plastics, and topwater plugs produce excellent results. In October, anglers around Matagorda find them actively feeding on shallow flats during morning and evening periods.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. The flesh is versatile and works well grilled, blackened, or baked. Redfish are high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury, making them a healthy seafood choice.
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 and soft plastic paddle-tails are excellent artificial options.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Matagorda?
A: Look for redfish on shallow grass flats, around oyster reefs, and in backcountry areas where they feed on crabs and baitfish.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish have firm, white meat with a mild flavor that's excellent grilled, blackened, or baked.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?
A: Fall months like October offer excellent redfish action, with early morning and evening periods typically producing the best results.
