Premium Flounder Gigging Charters in Matagorda Bay

Night Gigging Adventure in Matagorda Bay

Ready for a fishing trip that'll light up your night? Hop aboard with Bay Finatic for a 5-hour guided gigging expedition in Matagorda Bay that'll have you seeing the flats in a whole new light. We're talking LED-lit waters, stealthy movements, and the thrill of spotting your catch before it even knows you're there. It's not your average day on the water - this is nighttime fishing at its finest, where we'll be chasing after flounder, black drum, and sheepshead as they cruise through the shallows. Whether you're a gigging pro or it's your first time wielding a gig, this trip is set to be a highlight of your angling career. Just keep in mind, folks - flounder gigging takes a break from November 1 to December 15 to give those flatties a chance to do their thing. So, let's dive into what makes this nocturnal adventure one for the books!

Trip Rundown

Picture this: You're gliding through Matagorda's shallow flats and back lakes under the cover of darkness. The only sounds are the gentle hum of the boat motor and the occasional splash of a fish. Our rig is decked out with bright LED lights that turn the water into a window to another world. As we cruise along, you'll spot fish clear as day, their silhouettes stark against the sandy bottom. It's like nature's own aquarium, but way cooler because you get to be part of the action. We're on the hunt for three of the bay's most prized catches - flounder, black drum, and sheepshead. Each one requires a different approach, and I'll be right there to show you the ropes. This isn't just fishing; it's a full-on stealth mission that'll have your heart racing every time you spot a fish. And the best part? You're not just watching - you're doing. You'll be hands-on, gigging your own fish and feeling that rush of success when you land a big one.

Gigging 101

Alright, let's talk shop about gigging. If you've never done it before, don't sweat it - it's a blast and easy to pick up. We use long poles with multi-pronged spears on the end, called gigs. The technique is all about patience and a steady hand. As we drift along, you'll stand at the bow, scanning the water for fish. When you spot one, you've got to move quick but smooth. One swift thrust and you've got yourself a fish. It's kind of like playing darts, but way more exciting and with a tasty reward at the end. We'll be working the shallows, usually in water no deeper than your knees. The key is to move slow and quiet - these fish spook easy. But don't worry, I'll be right there to guide you through it all. By the end of the night, you'll be gigging like a pro and wondering why you haven't tried this before.

Tales from the Flats

"Caught our limit and had a great time doing so! Enjoyable trip with memories made!" - Nathan

"A trip we looked forward to for a long time and it didn't disappoint! Joe was a great, knowledgeable guide! My son and I made memories that will last a lifetime. We would highly recommend a guided trip with Joe." - Clay

"First time flounder gigging. Joe and crew made the experience easy, engaging and FUN! Great boat, great host, limited out! 10/10 can't wait to go again! If you're on the fence, go for it! This was a memory we won't forget!! Thank you Joe!" - Richard

Fish in the Spotlight

Southern Flounder: These flatfish are the stars of our gigging show. Masters of camouflage, they blend in so well with the bottom that spotting them is half the challenge - and all the fun. Flounder can grow up to 25 inches long, but most of what we'll see are in the 14-20 inch range. They're ambush predators, lying in wait for smaller fish to swim by. When you spot one, it's a thrill like no other. The best time to target flounder is during their fall run, typically from September to early November, when they're moving to deeper waters to spawn. That's when the big ones come out to play, and why we have that seasonal closure to protect them.

Black Drum: These bruisers are the heavyweights of our gigging trips. They can grow massive - I'm talking up to 90 pounds - but we usually see them in the 5-30 pound range. Black drum are bottom feeders, using their sensitive barbels to root out crabs and mollusks. When gigging for drum, look for their distinctive silvery-gray bodies with dark vertical stripes. They're active year-round, but spring is prime time when they gather in large schools to spawn. Spotting a group of these guys in the shallows is a sight you won't forget.

Sheepshead: Don't let those human-like teeth fool you - sheepshead are no pushovers. These striped battlers are a favorite among gigging enthusiasts for their crafty nature and delicious meat. They typically range from 3 to 8 pounds, with anything over 10 considered a trophy. Sheepshead love structure, so we'll be scanning around oyster beds and pilings. They're most active in the cooler months, from October through April. When you gig one of these, you're in for a treat - they're known as the 'poor man's lobster' for their sweet, delicate flavor.

Time to Book Your Spot

Listen, I've been guiding these waters for years, and I can tell you there's nothing quite like a night gigging trip in Matagorda Bay. It's fishing, but with a twist that'll have you hooked from the get-go. You're not just casting lines and waiting - you're actively hunting, using your eyes and instincts to track down your prey. It's a rush that's hard to match. And the best part? You're practically guaranteed to go home with a cooler full of fresh fish and a head full of stories. So whether you're looking to try something new or you're a seasoned angler wanting to switch things up, this trip is your ticket to an unforgettable night on the water. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Give Bay Finatic a call, and let's get you set up for a night of gigging that'll have you coming back for more. Trust me, once you've experienced the thrill of gigging under the stars, you'll wonder why you ever fished any other way.