Ready for a full day of non-stop fishing action? Grab your buddies and hop aboard for an unforgettable adventure on Matagorda Bay. We're talking about serious angling from sunup to sundown, targeting some of the hottest inshore species Texas has to offer. Whether you're itching to battle a bull redfish or finesse some speckled trout, we've got you covered. This ain't your average fishing trip - it's a chance to experience the best of the bay with a guide who knows every nook and cranny.
Picture this: You're cruising across Matagorda's pristine waters as the sun peeks over the horizon. The air's got that salty kick, and you can feel the anticipation building. We'll hit all the prime spots - from shallow flats to deeper channels - giving you a shot at a mixed bag of trophy fish. No cookie-cutter trips here - we tailor the day to what's biting and what you're after. Newbie or old salt, doesn't matter. We've got the gear, the know-how, and the patience to make sure everyone's landing fish and having a blast.
On this trip, we're not just dunking bait and hoping for the best. We're talking about a full-on fishing clinic. You'll get hands-on experience with live bait fishing - nothing beats a frisky mullet for enticing those big reds. We'll also do some trolling, perfect for covering water and finding where the fish are stacked up. And when conditions are right, there's nothing like the heart-stopping action of topwater fishing. Watching a speckled trout explode on your lure? That's the stuff fishing dreams are made of. We'll switch it up throughout the day, keeping things fresh and the fish coming over the gunwale.
"We fished the morning and caught a few, then the rain came. Later in the day Joe put us back on more fish. Just some of the fish we caught. Thanks for another great trip Joe." - Steve
"Another great trip! Ready for next trip already." - Steve
"It was great Capt Joe went above and beyond it was Windy but we were on top of Dem Fishes lol😁... booking my next trip as I type..." - Kevin
Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are the crown jewels of Matagorda Bay. Known for their powerful runs and stubborn fights, redfish will test your tackle and your patience. They love to hang around structure and in the shallows, often giving themselves away with their trademark tailing behavior. Fall is prime time for bull reds, but you can tangle with these guys year-round. Nothing beats the thrill of watching your line zip off the reel when a big red takes the bait.
Sea Trout: Also known as speckled trout, these spotted beauties are the bread and butter of Texas inshore fishing. They're aggressive feeders and absolute suckers for topwater lures, making for some of the most exciting visual strikes you'll ever see. Trout tend to school up, so when you find one, you've often found a bunch. Spring and fall are your best bets for trophy-sized gator trout, but the action stays steady all year.
Southern Flounder: If you're looking for a fish that'll really make you work for it, flounder's your target. These flatfish are masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy bottom. But man, are they worth the effort. Flounder have white, flaky meat that's hard to beat on the dinner table. We target them along drop-offs and around structure, using a slow and methodical approach. Fall is the prime time as they start their migration to the Gulf, but you can find them year-round if you know where to look.
Sheepshead: Don't let those human-like teeth fool you - sheepshead are no joke when it comes to putting up a fight. These striped brawlers hang around pilings, jetties, and oyster beds, using their chompers to crush crabs and barnacles. They're notoriously picky eaters and masters at stealing bait, which makes hooking one a real accomplishment. Winter and early spring are peak seasons, but with the right technique, you can catch them any time of year. And trust me, the sweet, white meat makes it all worthwhile.
Look, Matagorda Bay isn't just another fishing spot - it's a angler's paradise waiting to be explored. With Bay Finatic Fishing Guide Service, you're not just booking a trip, you're signing up for a day packed with non-stop action, expert guidance, and the chance to land the fish of a lifetime. We've got the local knowledge, the right gear, and the passion to make sure your time on the water is well spent. So why wait? Grab your fishing buddies, clear your schedule (Monday through Thursday by appointment), and let's get out there. The fish are biting, and your next big catch is just a cast away. Don't let another season slip by - book now and get ready for some serious rod-bending action!
July 26, 2025
Another great trip! Ready for next trip already.
August 30, 2025
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!!
August 4, 2023
It was great Capt Joe went above and beyond it was Windy but we were on top of Dem Fishes lol😁... booking my next trip as I type...
September 13, 2025
It was great...Capt Joe was great booking next trip
September 16, 2025
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 crown jewel of Matagorda Bay fishing. These copper-colored beauties, with their trademark black tail spot, typically range from 20 to 30 inches in the bay. You'll find them in shallow waters, often tailing in 1 to 4 feet deep flats, around oyster reefs, and in the backs of coves. They're year-round residents, but fall brings exciting bull red runs. Anglers love redfish for their powerful fights and excellent eating quality. To catch one, try sight-casting in clear shallows or fishing around structure with live bait. Here's a local tip: look for birds working bait schools – redfish are often feeding underneath. Whether you're using artificial lures or live bait, redfish provide heart-pounding action that keeps anglers coming back for more.
Sea Trout, also called Speckled Trout, are a staple in Matagorda Bay. These silvery, spotted fish typically run 14 to 24 inches long. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They're most active in cooler months, forming big schools in deeper waters during winter. Anglers love targeting them for their sporty fight and excellent table fare. Sea Trout hit a variety of lures, making them fun for all skill levels. Try topwater plugs early morning or late evening for exciting surface strikes. For a local trick, try drifting live shrimp under a popping cork – it's deadly effective. Remember, Sea Trout have soft mouths, so set the hook gently. Whether you're after a trophy or a tasty dinner, these fish deliver on both counts.
Sheepshead are the oddball of Matagorda Bay, with their distinctive black and white stripes and human-like teeth. These "convict fish" typically weigh 1-8 pounds and measure 14-20 inches. You'll find them around structures like docks, bridges, and reefs, where they use those teeth to crunch barnacles and crabs. Spring's the best time to target them, as they form large spawning groups. Anglers love the challenge of catching sheepshead – they're notorious bait stealers and put up a good fight. Plus, their white, flaky meat is delicious. To land one, use light tackle and natural bait like fiddler crabs or shrimp. Here's a pro tip: when you feel a nibble, wait a second before setting the hook. Sheepshead are masters at stripping bait, so timing is key.
Southern Flounder are a favorite among Matagorda Bay anglers. These flat, oval-shaped fish typically range from 15 to 18 inches, but can grow up to 33 inches long. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries, often camouflaged on sandy or muddy bottoms. They're ambush predators, lying in wait for smaller fish and crustaceans. Fall is prime time for flounder fishing, as they migrate to spawn. Anglers love targeting them for their delicious, mild-flavored meat and the challenge they present. To catch one, try drift fishing or still fishing near the bottom. Use live bait like mullet or shrimp, or try artificial lures. Here's a local tip: when you feel a bite, wait a few seconds before setting the hook. Flounder often grab their prey sideways before swallowing it whole.
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We fished the morning and caught a few, then the rain came. Later in the day Joe put us back on more fish. Just some of the fish we caught. Thanks for another great trip Joe.