Ready for a full day of non-stop fishing action in one of Texas' premier coastal spots? Our 7-hour private charter in Matagorda Bay is your ticket to some serious rod-bending fun. We're talking about a Monday through Thursday fishing bonanza where you and your crew get the whole boat to yourselves. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler or just enjoy a day on the water, we've got you covered with a variety of fishing techniques that'll keep everyone in your group hooked, from seasoned anglers to first-timers.
Picture this: You're cruising through Matagorda Bay's rich waters, rod in hand, with nothing but opportunity on the horizon. We're not just fishing; we're on a mission to put you on the hottest spots where the big ones lurk. Live bait fishing? Check. Trolling? You bet. Want to try your hand at some top-water action? We've got that too. It's all about giving you a taste of everything Matagorda Bay has to offer. And the best part? It's just you and your crew – no sharing the boat with strangers. This is your day, your way.
Let's break down what you're in for. We'll start by rigging up with live bait – nothing beats the real deal for enticing those trophy fish. As we cruise the bay, we'll switch it up with some trolling, dragging lures behind the boat to cover more water and target those active feeders. And when conditions are right, get ready for some heart-pounding top-water action. There's nothing quite like watching a big red explode on your lure. We provide all the gear, from rods and reels to the latest in fish-finding tech. All you need to bring is your game face and maybe a lucky hat.
"Our annual trip was great as usual. Captain Joe does an amazing job and we would recommend him whether you are an angler or not." - Steve
"Moved to find them but only little ones found. But tried very hard." - David
Redfish are the rockstars of Matagorda Bay. These copper-colored bruisers are known for their strong runs and stubborn fights. Fall is prime time for reds, but you can tangle with them year-round. They love to cruise the shallows, and when they're tailing, it's a sight you won't forget. Expect to catch them anywhere from 20 to 40 inches – and yes, they're delicious if you decide to keep a slot-sized fish for dinner.
Sea trout, or speckled trout as the locals call 'em, are the bread and butter of bay fishing. These speckled beauties are aggressive feeders and put up a great fight on light tackle. They're most active in the cooler months, but you can catch them year-round if you know where to look. Trout love to hang around structure, so we'll target oyster reefs and grass flats. A 20-incher is considered a good catch, but they can grow much larger.
Southern Flounder might not win any beauty contests, but they're prized for their flaky white meat. These flat fish are ambush predators, lying in wait on the bottom to snatch up unsuspecting prey. Fall is the prime time for flounder as they migrate to the Gulf, but we can find them throughout the year. They're not the strongest fighters, but landing a big one is always a thrill.
Sheepshead, with their distinctive black and white stripes and human-like teeth, are the oddballs of the bay. These structure-loving fish are experts at stealing bait, making them a fun challenge for anglers. They're most active in the cooler months and love to hang around pilings and jetties. Don't let their small size fool you – they put up a scrappy fight and are excellent table fare.
Alright, let's cut to the chase – if you're looking for a top-notch fishing experience in Matagorda Bay, this is it. We're talking about a full day of fishing, customized to your group's preferences, with a captain who knows these waters like the back of their hand. Whether you're after your personal best or just want to enjoy a day out with friends and family, we've got you covered. Weekday appointments mean less boat traffic and more fish for you. So what are you waiting for? Grab your spot now, and let's make some fishing memories that'll have you coming back year after year. Trust me, the fish are calling, and you don't want to miss this call.
August 4, 2023
Our annual trip was great as usual. Captain Joe does an amazing job and we would recommend him whether you are an angler or not.
August 31, 2024
Moved to find them but only little ones found. But tried very hard.
September 21, 2024
Redfish, or Red Drum, are the rockstars of Matagorda Bay. These copper-colored beauties, known for the distinctive black spot near their tail, usually run 28 to 33 inches when mature. You'll find them in super shallow water, often just 1 to 4 feet deep, cruising flats, bays, and around oyster reefs. They love muddy bottoms and hang out near structures like old piers and jetties. Fall is prime time for redfish, but you can catch them year-round. Anglers can't get enough of their powerful runs and excellent eating quality. To hook one, try sight-casting in clear shallows or working topwater lures early morning. Here's a local secret: on windy days, look for them in protected coves where they're chasing bait. Use a gold spoon or a live shrimp under a popping cork, and hold on tight – these fish pull like freight trains!
Sea Trout, also called Speckled Trout, are a favorite in Matagorda Bay. These silvery, spotted fish typically run 14 to 24 inches and weigh 1 to 5 pounds, though some monsters can hit 40 pounds. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They love hanging around estuaries year-round but may move to deeper channels in winter. Spring and fall are prime seasons for trout fishing. Anglers prize them for their sporty fight and excellent eating quality. Sea trout are aggressive feeders, making them fun to catch on a variety of lures. Try topwater plugs early in the morning or late evening for some exciting surface action. Local tip: when the bite slows, switch to a soft plastic jig and work it slowly along the bottom – often, the bigger trout are holding deep and waiting for an easy meal.
Sheepshead, also known as convict fish for their distinctive black and white stripes, are a unique target in Matagorda Bay. These tough fighters typically weigh 1-8 pounds and measure 14-20 inches, though trophy-sized fish can reach 20 pounds. You'll find them around structures like docks, bridges, and reefs – anywhere with barnacle-covered pilings. They're most active in early spring, from February through April, during spawning season. Anglers love sheepshead for their challenging fight and excellent table fare. Their human-like teeth make them experts at stealing bait, so you've got to be quick on the hook set. Here's a local tip: use fiddler crabs or small pieces of shrimp on a small, strong hook. Get your bait right up against the structure, and when you feel that nibble, set the hook hard – these guys have tough mouths!
Southern Flounder are a prized catch in Matagorda Bay. These flat, oval-shaped fish typically range from 15 to 18 inches, though they can grow up to 33 inches and weigh over 20 pounds. You'll find them lurking on sandy, rocky, or muddy bottoms in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. They're masters of camouflage, blending in with the bottom to ambush prey. Fall is prime time for flounder fishing, as they move to deeper waters for spawning. Anglers love targeting them for their delicate, white flesh and the challenge they present. To catch one, try still fishing or drift fishing near the bottom using live bait or artificial lures. A local trick: use a slow retrieve and be patient – flounder are known for their subtle bites, so stay alert and set the hook quickly when you feel that telltale tap.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 45
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300
We have booked more than one trip with these guys and this time my husband took his dad and let me tell you, they did not disappoint!!!! These guys are great!!! Super friendly and know their stuff!!! We will be back again for sure!!! Thanks again for another amazing time!!! Book with Bay Finatic Charters, you won’t be disappointed!!