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Caught Speckled Trout Inshore in Matagorda
Speckled Trout Fishing in Matagorda
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The Speckled Trout belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. It typically measures between 12 and 39 inches in length, with a weight range from 3 to 17 lbs. Habitat: onshore, nearshore, coastal river waters where they feed on shrimp, mullet, and small baitfish. - Also known as Spotted Weakfish or Spotted Seatrout. - Popular target for both recreational and commercial fishing. - Excellent table fare with mild, flaky white meat. - Responds well to live bait and artificial lures.
Fishing Charter by Captain Joe Guerra in December
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 Saturday November offers exceptional inshore fishing charters targeting speckled trout and black drum in Matagorda Bay's productive waters. This 5-hour guided fishing adventure combines drift fishing and live bait techniques to consistently produce results on the shallow flats and structure that make Matagorda famous among Texas anglers. With clear conditions and proven local knowledge, these fishing charters provide excellent opportunities for anglers of all skill levels to experience the thrill of hooking into quality gamefish. Whether you're after that trophy speckled trout or want to battle a powerful black drum, Matagorda Bay delivers year-round action with professional guidance and all necessary equipment included.
Fishing Charter with Captain Joe Guerra – Rates & Booking
Captain Joe Guerra of Bay Finatic Fishing Guide Service on Saturday November provides 5-hour guided fishing adventures targeting speckled trout, black drum, redfish, and more in Matagorda Bay's productive waters. This half-day charter accommodates up to 2 guests and includes all fishing equipment, live bait, and expert guidance from a licensed local captain. Trips run weekdays by appointment, focusing on drift fishing and bottom fishing techniques that consistently produce results on the shallow flats and structure. Book your Matagorda inshore fishing charter online or call to reserve your spot for an action-packed day on the water.
Highlights of Half Day Guided Fishing Trip In Matagorda Bay - Redfish, speckled trout And More
This 5-hour fishing adventure targets multiple species including speckled trout, black drum, redfish, sheepshead, and flounder using proven techniques like drift fishing and live bait presentations. Matagorda Bay's clear conditions and diverse structure provide excellent fishing opportunities year-round, with shallow flats perfect for sight fishing and deeper areas holding trophy-sized gamefish. The trip includes all necessary tackle, live bait, and cooler space for your catch, making it ideal for anglers of all experience levels.
Captain Joe Guerra's local knowledge of Matagorda's productive fishing spots ensures you'll spend more time with lines in the water and less time searching for fish. The bay's brackish waters and abundant baitfish create perfect conditions for targeting these popular gamefish species throughout the season.
Local Species Insights: Speckled Trout
Speckled trout thrive in Matagorda Bay's grass flats and oyster reefs, where they ambush shrimp, mullet, and other baitfish. These aggressive feeders respond well to live bait presentations and artificial lures worked around structure, making them a favorite target for both novice and experienced anglers. During cooler months, speckled trout move to deeper channels and warmer pockets, while warmer weather finds them scattered across the shallow flats where sight fishing becomes incredibly exciting.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your 5-hour guided fishing trip includes a fully equipped boat with all tackle, live bait, and safety equipment provided by Bay Finatic Fishing Guide Service. The charter accommodates up to 2 guests comfortably, with cooler space available for your catch. Early morning departures take advantage of prime feeding times, and Captain Joe Guerra's expertise ensures you'll fish the most productive areas based on current conditions, tides, and seasonal patterns. Bring your Texas fishing license, sunscreen, and camera to capture the memories of your successful Matagorda Bay fishing adventure.
Fishing in Matagorda: Black Drum
The Speckled Trout (Cynoscion nebulosus), also known as Spotted Weakfish or Spotted Seatrout, is a highly prized gamefish in the Sciaenidae family. This popular species ranges from 12 to 39 inches in length and weighs between 3 to 17 pounds, making it an exciting target for anglers in Matagorda waters this November.
Speckled Trout Overview
Speckled trout are aggressive predators known for their distinctive spotted pattern and excellent fighting ability. They're among the most sought-after inshore gamefish in Texas coastal waters, prized for both their sporting qualities and excellent table fare. These fish are actually members of the drum family, not true trout, but their trout-like appearance and behavior earned them their common name.
Speckled Trout Habitat and Distribution
These fish inhabit onshore, nearshore, and coastal river environments throughout the Gulf of Mexico. In Matagorda Bay, they're commonly found around grass flats, oyster reefs, and drop-offs where they can ambush prey. They prefer areas with good water circulation and access to both shallow feeding areas and deeper refuge zones.
Speckled Trout Size and Weight
Most speckled trout caught in recreational fishing range from 12 to 20 inches, though trophy specimens can reach 39 inches and weigh up to 17 pounds. Fish over 25 inches are considered trophy-class and are often released to preserve the breeding population.
Speckled Trout Diet and Behavior
Speckled trout are opportunistic predators that feed primarily on shrimp, mullet, croakers, and other small fish. They're most active during dawn and dusk, though they can be caught throughout the day. These fish are ambush predators that use grass beds and structure to surprise their prey.
Speckled Trout Spawning Season
Spawning occurs from March through November in Texas waters, with peak activity during warmer months. During spawning season, larger fish move to deeper waters and channel edges, while post-spawn fish return to shallow flats to feed aggressively.
Speckled Trout Fishing Techniques
Live shrimp under a popping cork is the most popular technique, though soft plastic lures, topwater plugs, and spoons are also effective. In November, Matagorda anglers often find success fishing deeper grass beds and channel edges where fish concentrate as water temperatures cool. Drift fishing with live bait allows you to cover more water and locate active schools.
Speckled Trout Is It Good to Eat?
Speckled trout are excellent table fare with mild, flaky white meat that's high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. They're versatile fish that can be grilled, fried, baked, or used in fish tacos. The meat is low in mercury, making it a healthy choice for regular consumption.
Speckled Trout Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for speckled trout?
A: Live shrimp is the most effective bait, especially when fished under a popping cork. Soft plastic lures like paddle tails and topwater plugs also work well.
Q: Where can I find speckled trout near Matagorda?
A: Look for them around grass flats, oyster reefs, and channel edges in Matagorda Bay. They often concentrate near structure where baitfish gather.
Q: Is speckled trout good to eat?
A: Yes, speckled trout are excellent eating fish with mild, flaky white meat that's perfect for various cooking methods.
Q: When is the best time to catch speckled trout?
A: Early morning and late afternoon are prime times, though they can be caught throughout the day. Cooler months like November often produce larger fish.
