%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fusers%2F4fd38351-4f75-4d11-a884-65a6504d3711%2Fimages%2F18348c13-8169-45da-ba2b-cf63f9f6a2cf.jpg&w=1200&q=100)
Caught a Spotted Weakfish Inshore in Matagorda Bay
Spotted Weakfish Fishing in Matagorda Bay
5.0
2 Reviews
- 5
100% - 4
0% - 30%
- 20%
- 10%
%2F%2Fusers%2F4fd38351-4f75-4d11-a884-65a6504d3711%2Fimages%2Fspotted-weakfish-matagorda-fishing-best-6930.png&w=1200&q=75)
The Cynoscion Nebulosus belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. It typically measures between 12 and 39 inches in length, with a weight range from 3 to 17 lbs. Habitat: onshore, nearshore, coastal river. - Popular gamefish in Gulf of Mexico waters. - Found from Maryland to Florida along the southeastern coast. - Prized by both recreational and commercial fishers for abundance and flavor.
Guided Fishing Trip by Guide Chad Kraft in August
Meet your Guide Chad Kraft
- Expert Guides, Prime Catch. Matagorda Bay.
Summary
Guide Chad Kraft of Shallowrun Guide Service on Thursday June offers productive inshore fishing in Matagorda Bay's diverse waters. This 5-hour guided fishing trip targets redfish, speckled trout, and flounder using proven local techniques. Recent trips have produced quality catches including 17-inch spotted weakfish, with non-stop action throughout the morning hours. The charter accommodates up to four anglers and includes all necessary gear, bait, and safety equipment. Launching from Matagorda Harbor, anglers work various inshore habitats from shallow flats to deeper bay structures. Captain Chad's local knowledge and tailored approach ensure both beginners and experienced anglers enjoy productive fishing in some of Texas's best inshore waters. Summer conditions provide excellent opportunities for multiple species encounters.
Guided Fishing Trip with Chad Kraft – Rates & Booking
Guide Chad Kraft of Shallowrun Guide Service on Thursday June provides expert inshore fishing experiences in Matagorda Bay. This 5-hour private charter accommodates up to four anglers and includes all fishing gear, bait, and safety equipment. Trips launch from Matagorda Harbor at 6:00 AM, targeting prime feeding times when redfish, speckled trout, and flounder are most active. Licensed guide service with local expertise ensures productive fishing across diverse bay habitats. Bring your valid Texas fishing license, food, and drinks for a complete day on the water. Book online to secure your preferred date and experience the best inshore fishing Texas has to offer.
Highlights of Matagorda Inshore Fishing Charter for Redfish, Trout, and Flounder
Recent 5-hour trips have delivered consistent action with quality catches like 17-inch spotted weakfish. The diverse inshore waters around Matagorda Bay offer multiple habitat types, from shallow grass flats to deeper bay structures. Captain Chad employs various techniques throughout the trip, adjusting approach based on fish behavior and changing conditions. Early morning launches take advantage of optimal feeding periods when target species are most aggressive.
Summer fishing conditions provide excellent opportunities for multiple species encounters. The productive waters support healthy populations of redfish, speckled trout, and flounder, with spotted weakfish adding exciting variety to the catch. All skill levels welcome, with personalized instruction ensuring everyone enjoys success on the water.
Local Species Insights: Spotted Weakfish
Spotted weakfish thrive in Matagorda Bay's brackish waters, particularly around grass beds and oyster reefs where they ambush prey. These aggressive feeders respond well to live bait and artificial lures, making them exciting targets for inshore anglers. Summer months bring active feeding as water temperatures warm, creating ideal conditions for consistent catches. The 17-inch fish caught on recent trips demonstrates the quality size available in these productive waters. Their distinctive spotted pattern and strong fighting ability make them prized catches among local anglers.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your 5-hour adventure begins with a 6:00 AM departure from Matagorda Harbor, allowing you to fish during prime morning hours. The charter boat is equipped with all necessary fishing gear, including rods, reels, tackle, and fresh bait. Safety equipment and local knowledge ensure a comfortable experience for up to four guests. Captain Chad provides personalized instruction and shares proven techniques for targeting inshore species. The trip concludes with fish cleaning service and memories of productive fishing in one of Texas's premier inshore destinations.
Fishing in Matagorda Bay: Spotted Weakfish
The Spotted Weakfish (Cynoscion nebulosus), also known as spotted seatrout, belongs to the drum family Sciaenidae within the order Perciformes. This popular gamefish features distinctive dark spots scattered across its silver-gray body and is highly valued by anglers throughout the Gulf Coast. In Matagorda Bay waters this June, spotted weakfish provide exciting inshore fishing opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers.
Spotted Weakfish Overview
Spotted weakfish are prized gamefish known for their aggressive strikes and strong fighting ability. They inhabit coastal waters from Maryland to Florida, with particularly healthy populations in Texas bays like Matagorda. Anglers target them for their excellent table fare and willingness to take both live bait and artificial lures.
Spotted Weakfish Habitat and Distribution
These fish prefer shallow coastal waters, grass beds, and oyster reefs where they ambush prey. In Matagorda Bay, they frequent areas with good water circulation and abundant baitfish. They move between deeper channels and shallow flats based on tides, temperature, and feeding opportunities.
Spotted Weakfish Size and Weight
Spotted weakfish typically range from 12 to 39 inches in length, weighing between 3 and 17 pounds. The 17-inch specimen caught on recent Matagorda trips represents a solid keeper-sized fish that provides excellent sport and table fare.
Spotted Weakfish Diet and Behavior
These predators feed primarily on shrimp, small crabs, and baitfish like mullet and menhaden. They are most active during dawn and dusk feeding periods, though they can be caught throughout the day. Their feeding behavior makes them responsive to both live bait presentations and artificial lures that mimic their natural prey.
Spotted Weakfish Spawning Season
Spawning occurs in warmer months when water temperatures reach optimal levels. During this period, fish become more aggressive and concentrate in specific areas, creating excellent fishing opportunities for anglers who know where to find them.
Spotted Weakfish Fishing Techniques
Effective techniques include live bait fishing with shrimp or small baitfish, as well as artificial lures like soft plastics and topwater plugs. In Matagorda Bay during June, anglers find success working grass beds and oyster reefs with both bottom rigs and suspending presentations. Drift fishing allows coverage of productive areas while maintaining natural bait movement.
Spotted Weakfish Is It Good to Eat?
Spotted weakfish offer excellent table fare with mild, flaky white meat that's high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. The flesh is versatile for various cooking methods including grilling, frying, and baking. Fresh-caught fish provide the best flavor and texture for memorable meals.
Spotted Weakfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for spotted weakfish?
A: Live shrimp and small baitfish like mullet work exceptionally well, though soft plastic lures and topwater plugs also produce consistent results.
Q: Where can I find spotted weakfish near Matagorda?
A: Look for them around grass beds, oyster reefs, and areas with good water movement in Matagorda Bay, particularly during dawn and dusk feeding periods.
Q: Is spotted weakfish good to eat?
A: Yes, they offer excellent table fare with mild, flaky white meat that's perfect for various cooking methods and high in beneficial nutrients.
Q: When is the best time to catch spotted weakfish?
A: Early morning and evening hours typically produce the best action, though they can be caught throughout the day during favorable conditions.
More species you can explore on this trip
Shallowrun Guide Service Available Trips
Other customer memories from this trip
We'll be cruising the waters of Matagorda Bay in a comfortable, well-equipped fishing boat perfectly suited for inshore angling. While the exact vessel may vary, you can expect a stable platform with ample deck space for casting and fighting fish. The boat will have all the necessary safety gear, fishing tackle, and electronics to put you on the fish. There's room for up to four anglers to spread out and fish comfortably. Whether we're drifting over grass flats for trout or poling along shorelines for redfish, this vessel will get us where we need to go. Captain Chad knows these waters like the back of his hand and will position the boat to give you the best shot at hooking into some quality fish. So grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's hit the water for a great day of Matagorda inshore fishing!
