Looking for a quick getaway on the water that'll have you reeling in some of the best catches Matagorda Bay has to offer? You've come to the right place. This half-day trip is the perfect way to scratch that fishing itch without taking up your whole day. We'll spend 5 hours targeting some of the bay's most sought-after species, including redfish, trout, and those tasty flounder. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip is tailored to give you a top-notch fishing experience that'll have you coming back for more.
We'll kick things off bright and early, meeting up at the dock where your experienced captain will be waiting to get you out on the water. This isn't some cookie-cutter tour – we're talking a personalized fishing adventure for you and a buddy. Your guide knows these waters like the back of their hand, so you'll be hitting up all the local hotspots where the fish are biting. We provide all the gear you need, from rods and reels to bait and tackle. All you need to bring is your fishing license, some snacks, and a good attitude. Oh, and don't forget the sunscreen – the Texas sun can be pretty unforgiving out on the bay!
On this trip, we'll be using a mix of techniques to land our target species. Depending on the conditions and what's biting, we might do some drift fishing over grass flats for trout, or work the shorelines for redfish tailing in the shallows. If you're after flounder, we'll show you how to work a jig along the bottom – it's all about that slow retrieve to entice those flatties. We'll hit up some of Matagorda Bay's prime fishing grounds, from the jetties to the back bays. Your captain might even have a few secret spots up their sleeve that are off the beaten path. It's all about reading the water, working with the tides, and putting you where the fish are.
"Second time out with Captain Joe. Had a great time and caught plenty of fish." - Adam
"Capt. Joe was hands down the best most attentive captain our family has ever had. His patience and knowledge was top notch. Did some driving around on a beautiful morning and put us on the fish quickly. Limits of trout and 2 Black drum of a lifetime we will never forget. Cannot go wrong if you use his services. Will definitely use him again soon. Thanks for the wonderful memories Capt. Joe." - Ryan
"Capt. Joe did an excellent job. Very personable and knowledgeable. He has nice equipment and put us on fish. Best guided trip I've ever been on." - Adam
Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are a staple of Matagorda Bay fishing. Known for their powerful runs and distinctive spot on their tail, redfish can be found cruising the shallows or hanging around structure. They're great fighters and even better eating. Fall is prime time for bull reds, but you can catch slot-sized fish year-round.
Speckled Trout: Also known as spotted seatrout, these fish are a favorite among light tackle anglers. They've got a soft mouth, so finesse is key when reeling them in. Trout love to hang around grass beds and oyster reefs. Early morning and late evening are your best bets for landing a gator trout.
Southern Flounder: These flatfish are masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy bottom. They're ambush predators, so we'll be working the edges of channels and drop-offs. Fall is the best time to target flounder as they migrate to the Gulf, but you can catch them year-round if you know where to look.
Black Drum: These cousins of the redfish can grow to massive sizes. They're bottom feeders with a soft bite, so you've got to pay attention to your line. Spring is prime time for big black drum, but you can catch them throughout the year. They might not be the prettiest fish in the bay, but they put up a great fight.
Sheepshead: Don't let those human-like teeth fool you – sheepshead are more than just a funny face. These striped fish are notorious bait stealers and can be tricky to hook. They love structure, so we'll target them around pilings and jetties. Winter and early spring are peak seasons for sheepshead.
Matagorda Bay isn't just another fishing spot – it's a angler's paradise that keeps folks coming back year after year. The diversity of fish species here is off the charts. One minute you're battling a bull red, the next you're finessing a speckled trout. The bay's mix of shallow flats, deep channels, and oyster reefs creates the perfect habitat for a variety of gamefish. And let's not forget about the scenery – from the coastal birds diving for bait to the occasional dolphin sighting, there's always something to see out here. Plus, with the knowledgeable guides at Bay Finatic Fishing Guide Service, you're not just going fishing – you're getting an education in local ecosystems and fishing techniques that'll up your game no matter where you cast a line.
Look, we could go on all day about how great the fishing is in Matagorda Bay, but at some point, you've just got to experience it for yourself. This half-day trip is the perfect way to get your feet wet (sometimes literally) and see what all the fuss is about. Whether you're looking to put some meat in the freezer or just want to bend a rod, we've got you covered. Remember, these trips are weekdays only and by appointment, so don't wait until the last minute to book. Give us a call, and let's get you out on the water. Trust me, once you feel that first tug on the line, you'll be hooked – pun absolutely intended. So what are you waiting for? Let's go fishing!
October 26, 2024
It was great / captain Joe is very nice and did a really good job. I’ll definitely book another trip in the future.
July 28, 2025
Capt. Joe was hands down the best most attentive captain our family has ever had. His patience and knowledge was top notch. Did some driving around on a beautiful morning and put us on the fish quickly. Limits of trout and 2 Black drum of a lifetime we will never forget. Cannot go wrong if you use his services. Will definitely use him again soon. Thanks for the wonderful memories Capt. Joe.
March 24, 2025
We had a fun trip. Fishing was tough, but Capt Joe worked his rear end off getting us on them. I would definitely book again.
May 3, 2025
Great trip the guild was able to find us another boat very quickly after some boat problems. Caught a bunch of great fish. Would recommend and go again.
June 15, 2024
Capt. Joe did an excellent job. Very personable and knowledgeable. He has nice equipment and put us on fish. Best guided trip I’ve ever been on.
September 14, 2024
Black Drum are the heavyweights of Matagorda Bay, ranging from 5 to 30 pounds, with some monsters hitting 90 pounds. You'll find these powerful fish in brackish waters, especially around oyster beds and muddy flats. They're bottom feeders with a taste for crustaceans, using their strong jaws to crush shells. Spring is prime time for Black Drum, as they school up for spawning. Anglers love the fight these fish put up, especially the bigger ones. For the best eating, target those under 15 pounds - the meat gets tougher in larger fish. To catch one, use fresh crab or shrimp on the bottom. Here's a local trick: listen for their distinctive drumming sound underwater - it can lead you right to a school. Remember, patience is key when fishing for Black Drum, as they're known for their slow, deliberate bites.
Redfish, or Red Drum, are a top target in Matagorda Bay. These copper-colored beauties typically range from 20 to 35 inches, with some bulls pushing 45 inches. You'll find them in shallow waters, often tailing in 1 to 4 feet of water over mud bottoms or around oyster reefs. Fall is prime time for Redfish as they school up for spawning. Anglers love them for their powerful fights and excellent table fare. To catch one, try sight-casting in the shallows with topwater lures or shrimp imitations. Here's a local tip: look for their distinctive tail wakes in calm, shallow water - it's a dead giveaway. When you hook up, be ready for a strong, determined fight. Remember, Redfish have that signature black spot near their tail, which helps identify your catch. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned angler, Redfish offer an exciting challenge in Matagorda Bay.
Sea Trout, also known as Speckled Trout, are a popular target in Matagorda Bay. These sleek, spotted fish typically range from 14 to 24 inches and weigh 1 to 5 pounds. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially active at night. They're known for their delicate, mild-flavored meat that's a favorite among anglers. Spring and fall are prime seasons for Sea Trout fishing. These fish are aggressive feeders and put up a good fight, making them fun to catch for all skill levels. To land one, try using artificial lures like jerk baits or topwater plugs in the shallows. Here's a local tip: when the water's cooler, look for Sea Trout in deeper channels where they school up. Remember, they have soft mouths, so set the hook gently to avoid tearing it.
Sheepshead, nicknamed "convict fish" for their black and gray stripes, are a unique catch in Matagorda Bay. These fish typically weigh 1-8 pounds and measure 14-20 inches. You'll find them around structures like docks, bridges, and oyster reefs, where they feast on barnacles and crabs. Spring is prime time for Sheepshead fishing as they gather to spawn. Anglers love targeting them for their tasty white meat and the challenge they present. Their human-like teeth make them notorious bait stealers, so you've got to be quick on the hook set. For best results, use light tackle and natural baits like fiddler crabs or shrimp. Here's a local tip: when fishing near pilings, position your bait as close as possible - Sheepshead rarely stray far from cover. Be prepared for a strong fight once hooked, as these fish pack a punch for their size.
Southern Flounder are a prized catch in Matagorda Bay. These flat, oval fish typically range from 15 to 18 inches long, with some reaching up to 33 inches. You'll find them lurking on sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. They're masters of camouflage, often buried in the substrate waiting to ambush prey. Fall is prime time for flounder fishing as they migrate to spawn. Anglers love targeting them for their delicate, white flesh and the challenge they present. To land one, try drift fishing or still fishing near the bottom using live bait like mullet or shrimp. A local tip: when you feel a bite, wait a few seconds before setting the hook. Flounder often grab prey sideways before repositioning it, so patience can mean the difference between a catch and a miss.
Second time out with Captain Joe. Had a great time and caught plenty of fish.