Ready for an afternoon of non-stop action on the Laguna Madre Bay? Captain Marc's got you covered with this quick-hit fishing trip that'll have you hooking into some of South Padre's most sought-after inshore species. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip is perfect for anyone looking to make the most of their time on the water. We'll be targeting black drum, redfish, and speckled trout – the holy trinity of Texas inshore fishing.
As soon as we push off from the dock, you'll feel the excitement building. Captain Marc knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll have you on the fish in no time. We'll be cruising the pristine flats and channels of the Laguna Madre, a unique hypersaline lagoon that's a fish magnet. You'll get to try your hand at sight-casting to tailing reds, working topwater lures for aggressive trout, or dropping bait to the bottom for hefty black drum. With a max of two anglers, you'll get plenty of one-on-one attention to hone your skills and learn the local tricks.
On this trip, we'll be using a mix of light tackle and artificial lures, as well as some live bait when the bite calls for it. Captain Marc will show you how to work a popping cork for trout, the art of presenting a soft plastic to a cruising redfish, and the finesse needed to entice a big black drum. We'll be fishing from a shallow-draft skiff, perfect for sneaking up on fish in skinny water. Don't worry if you're new to these techniques – by the end of the trip, you'll be casting like a pro. All the gear is provided, so just bring your sense of adventure and maybe a lucky hat!
Black Drum: These bruisers are the bulldogs of the bay. Known for their distinctive chin barbels and powerful fights, black drum can grow to over 30 pounds in these waters. They love hanging around structure and will test your gear with their stubborn runs. The best part? They're delicious on the grill!
Redfish: Also known as red drum, these copper-colored beauties are the rock stars of inshore fishing. They've got a signature spot on their tail and can often be seen "tailing" in shallow water as they root for crabs. Redfish put up an amazing fight, often making blistering runs and head-shaking jumps. Fall is prime time for big bull reds, but we catch them year-round here.
Speckled Trout: Don't let the name fool you – these aren't your average trout. Specks, as we call them, are aggressive predators that'll smash a topwater lure and give you a heart-stopping fight. They school up in the cooler months, and when you find them, it's non-stop action. Known for their delicate flesh, they're a favorite for the dinner table too.
Summer Flounder: While not as common as our other targets, flounder are a prized catch when we come across them. These flat fish are masters of camouflage and ambush hunting. They require a different technique to catch, often involving a slow retrieve along the bottom. When you hook one, it's like reeling in a dinner plate – and they taste even better than they look!
South Padre Island isn't just another fishing spot – it's a year-round angler's paradise. The Laguna Madre's unique ecosystem means there's always something biting. In the spring and fall, you might see massive schools of redfish churning up the water. Summer brings hot trout action on the flats, while winter is prime time for trophy black drum. And let's not forget the views – crystal clear waters, abundant birdlife, and those famous Texas sunsets. It's not just fishing; it's an experience you'll want to relive again and again.
Captain Marc's been fishing these waters for years, and he's got all the local intel. He knows where the fish are holding based on tide, wind, and time of year. You'll learn about reading the water, understanding bait movements, and the importance of conservation. Don't be surprised if he throws in a few fish tales or local legends – it's all part of the experience! And if you're lucky, he might even share his secret redfish spot (but don't tell anyone we told you).
While Captain Marc provides all the fishing gear, there are a few things you'll want to bring to make the most of your trip. Sunscreen is a must – that Texas sun can be intense out on the water. A hat and polarized sunglasses will help you spot fish and protect you from glare. Bring a light jacket, even in summer, as it can get breezy on the bay. And don't forget your camera – you'll want proof of that monster red you caught! As for food and drinks, this quick trip doesn't include meals, so feel free to bring some snacks and water to keep you fueled up.
Fishing isn't just about what we catch – it's about preserving the resource for future generations. Captain Marc is big on conservation and will teach you proper catch-and-release techniques if you're not keeping fish for dinner. You'll learn about size limits, bag limits, and why they're important. It's all about respecting the fish and the environment that supports them. Who knows, you might even get involved in a local conservation project – many of Captain Marc's regulars have become passionate advocates for the Laguna Madre ecosystem.
Whether you're looking to put some fish in the box or just want to experience the thrill of South Padre Island fishing, this quick cast afternoon trip is the perfect choice. With Captain Marc's expertise, top-notch equipment, and the incredible fishery of the Laguna Madre, you're in for a treat. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Grab a friend, your kid, or come solo – either way, you're in for some of the best fishing Texas has to offer. Book now and get ready to make some waves (and maybe break some personal bests) on South Padre Island!
Black Drum are the big bruisers of the drum family. These powerful fish typically run 5-30 pounds but can get up to 90. You'll find them in shallow, brackish waters around oyster beds and mudflats. They use those strong jaws and teeth to crush shellfish, so crab and shrimp make great bait. Spring is prime time as they school up to spawn. Listen for their distinctive croaking sound - it's how they got the name "drum." When you hook one, be ready for a fight. Smaller ones under 15 pounds taste best, with firm white meat. Here's a local tip: fish the bottom with a Carolina rig and fresh crab chunks. Let it sit still - these guys like an easy meal. Black Drum aren't the prettiest fish, but they're fun to catch and good eating too.
Redfish, or Red Drum, are a sight to behold with that copper color and black spot near the tail. They love shallow water - I'm talking 1 to 4 feet deep. You'll find them around oyster reefs, grass flats, and even old piers. Most run 28 to 33 inches, but they can get much bigger offshore. Spring and fall are prime seasons when they're feeding heavily. Redfish put up a stubborn fight and have excellent table fare. They'll hit just about anything when they're hungry - topwater lures, jigs, or live bait all work well. Here's a local secret: look for their tails sticking up out of the water on super shallow flats. Sight-casting to tailing reds is as exciting as it gets. These fish are a blast to catch and even better to eat.
Sea Trout, also called Speckled Trout, are a favorite around here. These silvery fish with spots all over put up a great fight and taste delicious. They typically run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds. Look for them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. Winter's when they school up in deeper channels. They love to chase bait, so topwater lures, jigs, and live shrimp all work well. Sea Trout are known for their soft, white meat, but be careful not to overcook it. Here's a tip: try trolling slowly along grass lines in the early morning. When you find a school, it's often game on. These fish are a ton of fun to catch and make for some mighty fine eating too.
Summer Flounder, or fluke, are masters of camouflage. These flatfish blend right into the sandy bottom, lying in wait to ambush prey. They average 15-20 inches but can reach 26 pounds. You'll find them in coastal waters and estuaries, often near structure. September to November is prime time, as they move inshore. Flounder put up a good fight and make excellent table fare. To catch 'em, try drifting or slow-trolling with live bait like minnows or mullet. Here's a trick: when you feel a bite, don't set the hook right away. Give the flounder time to turn the bait in its mouth. Then, a slow, steady retrieve usually does the trick. These "chameleons of the sea" are a blast to target and a treat for dinner.