%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fusers%2F4fd38351-4f75-4d11-a884-65a6504d3711%2Fimages%2F18348c13-8169-45da-ba2b-cf63f9f6a2cf.jpg&w=1200&q=100)
Expert-Guided Inshore Fishing in Matagorda Bay
- Published Date: July 16, 2025
- Fishing
- Matagorda Bay
- $550 - $600 price range
- Updated Date: August 27, 2025
Summary
%2F%2Fusers%2F4fd38351-4f75-4d11-a884-65a6504d3711%2Fratecard%2Fshllow3.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Matagorda Bay Beauties
Big redfish reeled in during a stormy Matagorda adventure!
Huge Spotted Weakfish hooked during a storm-threatened day!
Reeling in a redfish while deep sea jigging under clear Matagorda skies!
Three huge catches on a partly cloudy day in Matagorda!
null
null
null
null
null
Storms brewing, but the redfish are biting in Matagorda Harbor!
Big redfish reeled in during a stormy Matagorda adventure!
Huge Spotted Weakfish hooked during a storm-threatened day!
Reeling in a redfish while deep sea jigging under clear Matagorda skies!
Three huge catches on a partly cloudy day in Matagorda!
null
null
null
null
null
Storms brewing, but the redfish are biting in Matagorda Harbor!
Big redfish reeled in during a stormy Matagorda adventure!
Huge Spotted Weakfish hooked during a storm-threatened day!
Reeling in a redfish while deep sea jigging under clear Matagorda skies!
Three huge catches on a partly cloudy day in Matagorda!
Afternoon Bites: Matagorda's Inshore Fishing Haven
Ready for some afternoon action on the water? Grab your shades and join Capt. Chad for a 5-hour private fishing trip that'll have you hooked on Matagorda's inshore scene. We're talking prime-time fishing when the bay comes alive, and the big ones start biting. Whether you're after a trophy redfish or a mess of tasty drum, this trip's got you covered. Let's dive into what makes this afternoon adventure a must-do for any angler visiting the Texas coast.
Trip Overview
Picture this: You're cruising the flats of Matagorda Bay, rod in hand, as the afternoon sun starts to dip. That's when the magic happens. Capt. Chad knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's got a knack for putting clients on fish when it counts. This 5-hour trip is perfect for folks who want to skip the early wake-up call but still get in on some serious fishing action. We'll hit both East and West Matagorda bays, targeting the hot spots where redfish, black drum, and sheepshead like to hang out. And hey, if the bait shop's got 'em, we'll even toss in a quart of live shrimp to sweeten the deal.
What to Expect on the Water
Alright, let's talk tactics. Inshore fishing in Matagorda is all about reading the water and knowing where the fish are hiding. We might start by drifting over some grass flats, tossing soft plastics for trout. If the reds are tailing in the shallows, we'll ease up quietly and sight-cast to them. For those big uglies (that's local speak for black drum), we'll set up near oyster reefs or channel edges with some fresh crab or shrimp. Capt. Chad's got all the gear you need - top-notch rods, reels, and tackle. Just bring your Texas fishing license and a good attitude, and we'll handle the rest. Oh, and don't forget to pack a cooler for your catch - nothing beats fresh fish for dinner!
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Let me tell you, there's something special about fishing Matagorda in the afternoon. The crowds thin out, the fish get active, and the lighting is just perfect for spotting those tell-tale signs of feeding fish. Capt. Chad's local knowledge means you're not just fishing, you're getting an insider's tour of one of Texas' best-kept fishing secrets. Plus, with a max of 4 guests, you've got plenty of elbow room to cast and reel in the big ones. It's the kind of trip where memories are made, whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Let's break down the all-stars of Matagorda's inshore waters:
Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are the rockstars of Texas inshore fishing. They'll test your drag and your biceps, especially when they're cruising the shallows. Fall is prime time for bull reds, but you can catch 'em year-round. Look for their tails breaking the surface as they root for crabs in the grass flats.
Black Drum: Don't let their ugly mug fool you - these fish are a blast to catch and tasty to boot. They love hanging around structure and can grow to monster sizes. The smaller ones, what we call "puppy drum," are perfect for the dinner table. They're suckers for fresh crab or shrimp on a bottom rig.
Sheepshead: These striped convicts are the ultimate bait stealers, but man, are they fun to catch. They've got teeth like a sheep (hence the name) and love to munch on barnacles and crustaceans. Fishing for sheepshead is all about finesse and timing - when you get it right, it's incredibly satisfying.
Sea Trout: Also known as speckled trout, these guys are the bread and butter of inshore fishing. They're aggressive feeders and will hit topwater lures with explosive strikes. Dawn and dusk are prime times, but on this afternoon trip, we'll catch 'em as they start their evening feed.
Southern Flounder: These flatfish are masters of camouflage and a delicacy on the dinner plate. They like to ambush their prey from the bottom, so we'll drag baits slowly along deeper holes and drop-offs. Fall is flounder run time, when big females move to the Gulf to spawn - that's when you can catch some real doormats.
Time to Book Your Spot
Listen, if you're looking for a fishing trip that combines the laid-back vibe of the Texas coast with some serious angling action, this is it. Capt. Chad's 5-hour afternoon trip is the perfect way to experience Matagorda's inshore fishery without taking up your whole day. You'll get expert guidance, quality gear, and a shot at some of the best fishing Texas has to offer. Whether you're a local looking for a quick getaway or a visitor wanting to sample the Gulf Coast's finest, this trip delivers. So what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, the tide's just right, and there's a spot on the boat with your name on it. Book now and get ready to make some Matagorda memories!
Learn more about the species
Black Drum
Black Drum are the heavyweights of the drum family, often reaching 30-40 pounds in our bays. Look for them around oyster beds and mudflats in 3-6 feet of water. They use those powerful jaws and teeth to crush oysters and crabs - you can actually hear them crunching sometimes. Spring's the hot season when they school up to spawn. Drum give a solid, dogged fight, especially the bigger ones. They're not the prettiest fish, but smaller ones under 10 pounds are great eating. My local trick? Rig up with a chunk of blue crab on a circle hook. Let it sit on the bottom near structure and wait for that telltale thump. Just be ready - when a big one hits, it'll feel like you've hooked a truck!
Redfish
Redfish are the rockstars of our bay - that copper color and black spot near the tail are unmistakable. Most are "slot" sized, 20-28 inches, but bull reds over 40 inches show up in the fall. You'll find them tailing in shallow grass flats or prowling shorelines, often in water so shallow their backs are out. They'll eat just about anything, but love crabs and mullet. Fall's prime time when big schools move through. Redfish are known for powerful runs - hook one in shallow water and hang on! They're excellent eating too. My local trick? On calm days, cruise the flats and look for their wakes or tails. Cast a gold spoon or soft plastic shrimp ahead of them and hold on. There's nothing like sight-casting to a big red in skinny water!
Sea Trout
Sea Trout, or Speckled Trout as we call 'em, are a staple in our bays. Most run 14-20 inches, but gator trout over 25 inches aren't unheard of. They love grass flats and drop-offs in 3-6 feet of water. Dawn and dusk are prime feeding times, especially around bait schools. Spring and fall are best, when water temps are mild. Trout are known for their soft mouths and acrobatic fights - they'll throw hooks if you horse them. Anglers prize them for both sport and table fare. My local tip? Try a popping cork rig with live shrimp about 18 inches under. Pop it every few seconds to mimic shrimp fleeing - trout can't resist. When you feel that distinctive thump, let them run for a second before setting the hook.
Sheepshead
Sheepshead are the oddballs of our bay - those human-like teeth are unmistakable. Most run 2-4 pounds, but 8-10 pounders aren't uncommon. You'll find them around any hard structure - pilings, jetties, reefs. They're notorious bait stealers, using those teeth to pick crabs and barnacles off pilings. Spring's prime time when they school up to spawn. Anglers love the challenge - hooking one takes finesse. They put up a scrappy fight for their size, and the meat is excellent. My go-to rig is a small hook with fiddler crab, right up against structure. Watch your rod tip for the slightest nibble, then set the hook quick. It takes practice, but landing a big sheepshead is a real accomplishment.
Southern Flounder
Southern Flounder are masters of camouflage, lying flat on the bottom waiting to ambush prey. They typically range from 15-18 inches but can grow up to 33 inches. You'll find them in sandy or muddy bottoms of shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. Fall is prime time as they migrate to spawn. Anglers love targeting them for their delicate, mild-flavored meat. They can be tricky to hook - these guys are notorious bait stealers. My tip? Use a free-line rig with live bait like mullet or shrimp. Let it sit on the bottom, then slowly drag it. When you feel that telltale tap-tap, give it a second before setting the hook. Flounder have soft mouths, so a steady pressure beats a hard hookset. Patient anglers who master the technique can land some real doormats.
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
