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World-Class 7-Hour Matagorda Inshore Fishing Trip

  • Published Date: July 18, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Matagorda Bay
  • $500 - $600 price range

Summary

Get ready for some serious inshore fishing action in Matagorda, Texas. We're talking 7 full hours on the water, giving you plenty of time to chase after redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. This trip is perfect for a group of 4 anglers looking to make the most of Matagorda's rich fishing grounds. The extended time means more chances to find those honey holes and land some impressive catches. Shallowrun Guide Service knows these waters like the back of their hand, so you'll be in good hands as you explore the bays and estuaries. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip offers a great mix of challenge and fun. Pack your sunscreen, grab your favorite fishing hat, and let's hit the water for a day of reeling in some Texas-sized memories.
World-Class 7-Hour Matagorda Inshore Fishing Trip

Matagorda's Finest Catches

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Fisherman with redfish catch in Texas

Best Red Drum catch of the day!!

Angler fishing in Matagorda

Come join us in Matagorda Bay!

One redfish, 29 inches, caught fishing in TX

Keep them Red Drums coming!

Redfish caught in Matagorda

Amazing Red Drum in Matagorda Bay!

Huge Spotted Weakfish hooked during a storm-threatened day!

Huge Spotted Weakfish hooked during a storm-threatened day!

Reeling in a redfish while deep sea jigging under clear Matagorda skies!

Reeling in a redfish while deep sea jigging under clear Matagorda skies!

Three huge catches on a partly cloudy day in Matagorda!

Three huge catches on a partly cloudy day in Matagorda!

Hooked a sleek Spotted Weakfish in stormy Matagorda waters!

Hooked a sleek Spotted Weakfish in stormy Matagorda waters!

Redfish caught by angler in TX

Amazing Red Drum on display! Only in Matagorda!

6 fishing adventure in matagorda

Best fishing charter Matagorda Bay has to offer!!

Fisherman with redfish catch in Texas

Best Red Drum catch of the day!!

Angler fishing in Matagorda

Come join us in Matagorda Bay!

One redfish, 29 inches, caught fishing in TX

Keep them Red Drums coming!

Redfish caught in Matagorda

Amazing Red Drum in Matagorda Bay!

Huge Spotted Weakfish hooked during a storm-threatened day!

Huge Spotted Weakfish hooked during a storm-threatened day!

Reeling in a redfish while deep sea jigging under clear Matagorda skies!

Reeling in a redfish while deep sea jigging under clear Matagorda skies!

Three huge catches on a partly cloudy day in Matagorda!

Three huge catches on a partly cloudy day in Matagorda!

Hooked a sleek Spotted Weakfish in stormy Matagorda waters!

Hooked a sleek Spotted Weakfish in stormy Matagorda waters!

Redfish caught by angler in TX

Amazing Red Drum on display! Only in Matagorda!

6 fishing adventure in matagorda

Best fishing charter Matagorda Bay has to offer!!

Fisherman with redfish catch in Texas

Best Red Drum catch of the day!!

Angler fishing in Matagorda

Come join us in Matagorda Bay!

One redfish, 29 inches, caught fishing in TX

Keep them Red Drums coming!

Redfish caught in Matagorda

Amazing Red Drum in Matagorda Bay!

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Reel in the Big Ones: Matagorda Inshore Fishing

Get ready to experience some of the best inshore fishing Texas has to offer with our 7-hour private trip in Matagorda. We're talking about battling redfish in the shallows, outsmarting speckled trout, and maybe even landing a trophy flounder. This ain't your average day on the water – it's a full-on fishing adventure tailored for you and three of your buddies. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, we've got the know-how to put you on the fish and make sure you have a blast doing it.

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: You're cruising through Matagorda's maze of bays and backwaters, the sun's barely up, and the anticipation's thick as the morning fog. We'll hit all the local hotspots – from grass flats to oyster reefs – where the big ones like to hang out. Our 7-hour trip gives us plenty of time to switch up tactics and locations if the fish are playing hard to get. We're not just fishing; we're on a mission to fill the cooler and create some brag-worthy stories. And don't worry about bringing the gear – we've got top-notch rods, reels, and bait all ready to go. Just bring your game face and maybe a lucky hat.

Techniques That Land Lunkers

In Matagorda, we don't just cast and hope – we've got a whole bag of tricks to entice those fish. We'll show you how to work a topwater lure for explosive strikes, finesse a soft plastic for those picky trout, or slow-roll a spoon to tempt a redfish out of its hidey-hole. Depending on the conditions, we might be sight-casting to tailing reds in skinny water or drifting live bait over deep holes. And if the flounder are in, get ready for some precision gigging action. It's all about adapting to what the fish want, and trust me, after a few hours, you'll be slinging lures like a pro.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish are the rockstars of Matagorda Bay, and for good reason. These copper-colored bruisers can turn a calm day into an all-out tug-of-war. They love to cruise the shallows, and when they're tailing, it's a sight that'll get your heart racing. Redfish can grow up to 40 inches or more, and when they hit, hold on tight! They're at their best in the fall when they school up for their annual spawn, but you can catch 'em year-round if you know where to look.

Speckled Trout, or "specks" as we call 'em, are the finesse fighters of the bay. These silvery, spotted beauties put up a great fight and are a blast to catch on light tackle. They're most active in the cooler months, but summertime can see some monster trout cruising the deeper channels. Specks are known for their subtle strikes and acrobatic jumps, so stay alert and keep that line tight!

Southern Flounder might not win any beauty contests, but they're prized for their tasty fillets and the challenge they present. These flatfish are masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy bottom. We target them in the fall during their migration to the Gulf, but they can be caught year-round if you know their habits. Flounder fishing requires patience and a delicate touch – it's all about feeling that soft thump when they inhale your bait.

Black Drum might not be the prettiest fish in the sea, but they're a blast to catch and can grow to monster sizes. These big uglies, as we affectionately call them, love to root around oyster reefs and channel edges. They put up a stubborn fight, especially the bigger ones that can top 30 pounds. Black drum are most active in the cooler months, and when you find a school, it's non-stop action.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Folks come from all over to fish Matagorda, and it's not just for the fish. It's about the whole package – the stunning sunrises over the bay, the chance to spot dolphins playing in the boat wake, and the peacefulness of being out on the water away from the hustle and bustle. Our 7-hour trip gives you the time to really soak it all in, try different spots, and maybe even squeeze in a quick shore lunch if the bite is hot. Plus, with four anglers max, there's plenty of elbow room and personalized attention. It's like having your own floating fishing club for the day.

Top Catches This Season

This season's been on fire, with some real wall-hangers coming over the gunwale. We've had clients landing bull reds pushing 40 inches, specks fat as footballs, and even a few doormat flounder that barely fit in the net. But it's not just about size – we've had days where the trout bite was so hot, folks were catching fish on every cast. And let's not forget the time we stumbled onto a school of black drum that had our rods bent double for hours. Every trip's different, but that's the beauty of fishing Matagorda – you never know what you're gonna get, but it's always gonna be good.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, let's cut to the chase – if you're itching to get out on the water and tangle with some of Matagorda's finest, now's the time to lock in your date. Our 7-hour trips fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Whether you're looking to put some meat in the freezer or just want to experience world-class inshore fishing, we've got you covered. Bring your buddies, your camera, and a good attitude – we'll take care of the rest. Don't let another fishing season slip by without making some memories on the water. Give us a call, and let's get you hooked up with the inshore fishing adventure of a lifetime. The fish are waiting, and the time is now – let's go fishing!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black Drum are the bruisers of the inshore scene. These big, powerful fish can grow over 30 pounds, though the sweet spot for eating is under 15. You'll find 'em hanging around oyster beds, mudflats, and channel edges. They love structure and use those barbels on their chin to root out crabs and shellfish. Spring's prime time when they school up to spawn, making some serious noise with their distinctive croaking. Black Drum put up a stubborn fight, especially the bigger ones - it's like reeling in a cement block. They're not the prettiest fish, but man, can they pull. For bait, fresh crab is hard to beat. Cut the legs off and thread it on the hook - catfish tend to leave it alone. If you're after a real challenge, try sight-casting to tailing Drum in shallow water. It's a rush when you see that big tail waving and manage to drop your bait right in front of 'em.

Black Drum

Redfish

Redfish, or Red Drum, are the bullies of the flats. These copper-colored bruisers with the trademark tail spot can grow over 40 inches, but most inshore reds run 20 to 30 inches. They love shallow water - sometimes so shallow their backs are out of the water. Look for 'em tailing in grass flats or cruising along oyster bars. Reds are opportunistic feeders, crushing crabs, shrimp, and baitfish. They put up a stubborn fight, often making strong runs and head-shaking leaps. Fall's a great time to target 'em as they school up before heading offshore. For a real thrill, try sight-casting to tailing reds in clear, shallow water. It's a test of stealth and accuracy. When hooked, they'll often make a hard run right at the boat, so be ready to reel fast. Local secret: On calm days, look for pushing water or "nervous" bait to find cruising reds.

Redfish

Sea Trout

Sea Trout, or Speckled Trout as we call 'em here, are a favorite target for light tackle anglers. These silvery fish with distinctive spots usually run 14 to 24 inches, though trophy "gator" trout can hit 30 inches or more. They're ambush predators, often found around grass flats, oyster reefs, and channel edges. Dawn and dusk are prime feeding times, especially on a moving tide. Specks are known for their soft mouths, so a gentle hook-set is key. They'll hit topwater lures with explosive strikes, making for some heart-pounding action. In winter, look for them in deeper holes and channels where they school up. One of the best things about trout is their tasty, mild flesh - perfect for a fish fry. Local tip: When you find a school, work it thoroughly. Where there's one trout, there's usually more.

Sea Trout

Southern Flounder

Southern Flounder are masters of camouflage, blending in with sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow coastal waters. They usually range from 15 to 18 inches long, but can grow up to a hefty 33 inches. These flat, oval-shaped fish are ambush predators, lying in wait for smaller fish and crustaceans. You'll find 'em in bays, estuaries, and near river mouths, especially during fall when they migrate to spawn offshore. Flounder fishing's all about patience and precision. Use a slow retrieve with soft plastics or live bait like mullet or shrimp. They're not known for putting up a big fight, but the challenge is in the hunt and the hook-set. Plus, they're delicious - some of the best-tasting fish you'll catch inshore. Pro tip: When you feel a bite, wait a few seconds before setting the hook. Flounder often grab the bait and turn it before swallowing, so give 'em time to get it just right.

Southern Flounder

About the Shallowrun Guide Service

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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: Suzuki

Maximum Cruising Speed: 44

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 300

Ready for some serious inshore fishing action in Matagorda? Hop aboard our well-equipped vessel for a 7-hour adventure targeting the Gulf Coast's prized catches. We'll cruise the productive waters in search of redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. With room for you and 3 fishing buddies, there's plenty of space to cast lines and reel in your share of the action. Our experienced captain knows all the local hotspots and will put you on the fish. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to the sport, you'll have a blast hauling in these sought-after species. We provide everything you need for a successful day on the water - just bring your sense of adventure and get ready to make some great catches and even better memories out on Matagorda Bay.
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Don't miss out on the opportunity to finally conquer Matagorda Bay's elusive trophy fish. Book your adventure with Captain Chad Kraft at Shallowrun Guide Service today, and let his expertise and local knowledge guide you to an unforgettable fishing experience. Book now!

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