%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fusers%2F4fd38351-4f75-4d11-a884-65a6504d3711%2Fimages%2F18348c13-8169-45da-ba2b-cf63f9f6a2cf.jpg&w=1200&q=100)
Beginner-Friendly Matagorda Bay Fishing Charter
- Published Date: November 29, 2025
- Fishing
- Matagorda Bay
- $550 - $600 price range
Summary
%2F%2Fusers%2F4fd38351-4f75-4d11-a884-65a6504d3711%2Fratecard%2F575102822_1319133533346568_5912004640688249268_n-mijzvba9.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Matagorda Bay Catch Reel
Big coastal redfish on deck in Matagorda Bay.
Big Matagorda Bay flounder, fresh catch at the harbor dock.
Busy dock energy and a classic coastal redfish haul at Matagorda Harbor.
Strong sunset catch with coastal redfish in Matagorda Bay.”
null
null
Solid day at Matagorda Harbor with beautiful redfish on deck.
Strong haul with coastal redfish at Matagorda Harbor.
Nice speckled trout from Matagorda waters at sunset.
Great coastal redfish and mixed catch at Matagorda Harbor.
Big coastal redfish on deck in Matagorda Bay.
Big Matagorda Bay flounder, fresh catch at the harbor dock.
Busy dock energy and a classic coastal redfish haul at Matagorda Harbor.
Strong sunset catch with coastal redfish in Matagorda Bay.”
null
null
Solid day at Matagorda Harbor with beautiful redfish on deck.
Strong haul with coastal redfish at Matagorda Harbor.
Nice speckled trout from Matagorda waters at sunset.
Great coastal redfish and mixed catch at Matagorda Harbor.
Big coastal redfish on deck in Matagorda Bay.
Big Matagorda Bay flounder, fresh catch at the harbor dock.
Busy dock energy and a classic coastal redfish haul at Matagorda Harbor.
Strong sunset catch with coastal redfish in Matagorda Bay.”
Matagorda Bay's Beginner-Friendly Inshore Adventure
Ready to wet a line in some of Texas' most productive waters? Shallowrun Guide Service's 5-hour inshore trip on Matagorda Bay is tailor-made for newcomers and seasoned anglers alike. This private charter welcomes up to 4 guests for a laid-back morning or afternoon of targeting redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. With all the gear provided and Captain Chad at the helm, you're in for a hassle-free day of coastal fishing at its finest.
What to Expect on the Water
As you push off from the dock, the vast expanse of Matagorda Bay unfolds before you. Captain Chad's local know-how means you'll be hitting prime spots right off the bat. Whether you're drifting over shallow flats, working marsh edges, or probing deeper bay channels, the action can heat up fast. This isn't about fancy techniques or pressure to land a trophy - it's all about enjoying the hunt and maybe putting a few tasty fillets in the cooler. Newbies will get patient guidance on casting and fish-fighting basics, while more experienced anglers can fine-tune their approach to these coastal gamefish.
Gear and Tactics Breakdown
Leave your tackle box at home because Shallowrun's got you covered with quality rods, reels, and all the bait you'll need. You'll primarily be using light to medium spinning gear, perfect for tossing soft plastics or live bait. Depending on conditions, you might be sight-casting to tailing reds in skinny water, working popping corks for trout, or bouncing jigs along channel edges for flounder. Captain Chad's always got a few tricks up his sleeve, so be ready to switch it up if the fish are being finicky. And don't sweat it if you're green - he'll walk you through each technique until you're casting like a pro.
Top Catches This Season
While every trip is different, Matagorda Bay's been on fire lately. Redfish have been crushing topwaters on the flats, with some real bruisers in the 30-inch range making appearances. The trout bite's been steady, especially around shell reefs and drop-offs. And let's not forget about those tasty flounder - they've been stacking up near creek mouths and points as we head into fall. Remember, it's all about having fun and maybe learning a new trick or two, so don't stress if the big one gets away. There's always another cast waiting.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Redfish: These copper-colored bulldogs are the stars of Matagorda Bay. Known for their powerful runs and distinctive spot on the tail, redfish love to cruise shallow flats and marsh edges. They'll hit everything from live shrimp to topwater plugs, often with explosive strikes that'll get your heart racing. Fall and spring see some of the best action, but you can tangle with reds year-round here.
Speckled Trout: Don't let the name fool you - these spotted speedsters are no lightweights. Matagorda's trout are known for their acrobatic fights and delicious fillets. They're often found around structure like oyster reefs or deeper holes, especially during summer. A well-placed soft plastic or live croaker can lead to some serious rod-bending action.
Southern Flounder: The ninjas of the bay, flounder are masters of camouflage and ambush predators. They love to hang around drop-offs and channel edges, waiting to pounce on unsuspecting baitfish. While they can be caught year-round, the fall "flounder run" is prime time as they migrate to the Gulf. A slow-rolled jig or live mullet along the bottom is your ticket to flatfish success.
Black Drum: Often overlooked but always fun to catch, black drum are the gentle giants of Matagorda Bay. These bottom-feeders can grow to massive sizes, though the smaller "puppy drums" are better eating. They love crustaceans, so a chunk of crab or shrimp fished near oyster beds or pier pilings can lead to some serious pull on your line.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
It's not just about the fish - though that certainly helps. Matagorda Bay offers a slice of coastal Texas that's hard to beat. The vast, open water gives you room to breathe, while the diverse ecosystems from grass flats to deep channels keep things interesting. Captain Chad's easy-going nature takes the pressure off, making it perfect for families or groups with mixed skill levels. And let's be real - there's something special about swapping stories over cold drinks as the sun sets over the bay, knowing you've just had a day on the water you won't soon forget.
Time to Book Your Spot
Whether you're looking to bend a rod for the first time or just want a laid-back day chasing some of Texas' most popular inshore species, Shallowrun Guide Service's Matagorda Bay trip fits the bill. With all gear provided, expert guidance from Captain Chad, and the chance to tangle with redfish, trout, and flounder, it's a no-brainer for anyone wanting to experience the best of Gulf Coast fishing. Just remember to snag your Texas fishing license, pack some snacks and drinks, and get ready for a good time. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. The fish are biting in Matagorda Bay - isn't it time you joined them?
Learn more about the animals
Black Drum
Black Drum are the heavyweights of Matagorda Bay, ranging from 5 to 30 pounds, with some monsters hitting 90. Look for them in shallow, muddy flats and near oyster beds. Spring's the hot season when they school up to spawn. These fish are popular for their strong fight and tasty meat, especially the smaller ones under 15 pounds. They make a distinctive croaking sound, which can help you locate them. For bait, nothing beats fresh crab or shrimp - Black Drum are suckers for shellfish. Here's a tip: when you're fishing the flats, keep an eye out for their tails breaking the surface as they root around for food. It's a dead giveaway and can lead to some exciting sight-fishing opportunities.
Redfish
Redfish are the rockstars of Matagorda Bay. These copper-colored beauties, with their trademark black tail spot, typically run 20 to 30 inches inshore. You'll find them prowling the shallows, often in just 1 to 4 feet of water. They love hanging around oyster reefs, grass flats, and marsh edges. Fall's prime time when they school up to spawn. Anglers go nuts for redfish because they're hard fighters and great eating. To catch 'em, try sight-fishing on calm days - look for their tails sticking up as they root for crabs in the mud. Here's a local tip: when the water's clear, throw gold spoons. When it's muddy, switch to noisy topwater lures. Redfish can't resist that commotion, and the strikes are explosive.
Sea Trout
Sea Trout, also known as Speckled Trout, are a Matagorda Bay favorite. These silvery fish with distinctive spots typically run 14 to 24 inches, though some can reach 40 pounds. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They're most active in spring and fall when water temps are mild. Anglers love 'em for their aggressive strikes and tasty, flaky meat. To hook one, try live shrimp under a popping cork or artificials like topwater plugs at dawn. Here's a local secret: on calm mornings, listen for their characteristic "trout slicks" - the sound of them feeding on the surface. Follow that noise, and you're in for some fast action. Just remember, they've got soft mouths, so set the hook gently to avoid tearing out.
Southern Flounder
Southern Flounder are masters of camouflage, blending in with sandy or muddy bottoms. These flat oval fish typically range from 15-18 inches, but can grow up to 33 inches. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. Fall is prime time as they move to spawn. Anglers love targeting flounder for their unique fight and excellent table fare. To catch 'em, focus on drop-offs and channel edges using slow-moving baits like live mullet or shrimp. Here's a local trick: when you feel a bite, wait a few seconds before setting the hook. Flounder often grab prey and reposition it before fully committing. This patience can make the difference between landing dinner and telling a story about the one that got away.
About the Shallowrun Guide Service
%2F%2Fusers%2F4fd38351-4f75-4d11-a884-65a6504d3711%2Fvehicle_picture%2Fimg_4429.jpeg&w=1200&q=75)
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 44
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300
