Specialized Bay Fishing on South Padre Island

Published Date: August 19, 2025
Fishing

South Padre Island
$350 - $600 price range

Summary

This 5-hour bay fishing trip with Captain Andrew is perfect for experienced anglers looking to target specific species in South Padre Island's coastal waters. You'll head out at 2 PM, focusing on gigging for Sheepshead, Flounder, and Black Drum during their most active afternoon hours. Bring your own waders for in-water action as the captain guides you to productive spots. All the gear you need is provided, along with fish cleaning services, cold drinks, and snacks to keep you energized. There's even ice storage for your catch, so you can bring home your prize fish. With a small group size of just two guests, you'll get plenty of personal attention and the chance to really hone your skills. This trip is all about maximizing your time on the water and getting results, so come ready to put your angling expertise to work in South Padre's rich fishing grounds.

Specialized Bay Fishing on South Padre Island

Bayside Catch of the Day

Reeling in a tasty Spotted Weakfish amidst the Partly cloudy weather!

Redfish in South Padre Island Fishing

4 people enjoying fishing at South Padre Island

Inshore Fishing in South Padre Island, TX

South Padre Island Inshore Fishing

Bay Fishing SPI: Pro Angler's Paradise

Ready to step up your game on the flats of South Padre Island? Captain Andrew's afternoon bay fishing charter is tailor-made for seasoned anglers looking to zero in on some of the most sought-after inshore species. This isn't your average lazy day on the water – we're talking serious fishing from 2 PM to sunset, targeting the prime time when flounder, sheepshead, and black drum are most active. If you've got the skills and the passion, this trip will put you right where the action is.

Trip Overview

Forget about early wake-up calls – this 5-hour afternoon trip kicks off at 2 PM, perfect for those who like to sleep in or grab lunch before hitting the water. Captain Andrew knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll take you straight to the honey holes where the big ones lurk. You'll be wading in some of South Padre's most productive spots, so bring your own waders and get ready to get up close and personal with the fish. With all the gear provided and the captain's expert guidance, you'll be set up for success from the moment you step aboard.

Wading the Flats

This isn't your grandpa's sit-and-wait fishing – we're getting in there with the fish. Wading is the name of the game here, allowing you to sneak up on those wary flounder and black drum. You'll be using a mix of techniques, from sight-casting to blind-casting, depending on the conditions and the target species. The captain will show you how to read the water, spot the telltale signs of feeding fish, and present your bait or lure just right. It's a hands-on, immersive experience that'll sharpen your skills and put fish in the cooler.

What to Expect on the Water

Once we push off from the dock, it's all about finding the fish. We'll cruise the bay, hitting proven spots and checking out new areas based on recent patterns. The beauty of an afternoon trip is that we're fishing when the water's warmed up and the fish are often more active. You might start off casting from the boat, but don't get too comfortable – when we find a promising flat, it's time to hop out and wade. The captain will be right there with you, offering tips on technique and helping you spot those subtle signs of fish activity. And when you hook up, get ready for some drag-screaming action – these bay bruisers don't give up easy!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Southern Flounder: These flatfish are the masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy bottom. But once you spot one, it's game on. Flounder love to ambush their prey, so we'll be working jigs and live bait along drop-offs and channel edges. The fall run is prime time for big flounder, but we catch them year-round. There's nothing quite like the thump of a flounder strike and the challenge of getting them to the net.

Black Drum: These cousins of the redfish are built like linebackers and fight like them too. We target them around oyster reefs and deeper holes in the bay. Black drum are suckers for crabs and shrimp, so we'll often use natural bait to tempt them. When a big one takes off, hold on tight – they can easily top 30 pounds and will give you a workout you won't forget.

Sheepshead: Don't let those human-like teeth fool you – sheepshead are no joke when it comes to putting up a fight. These striped brawlers hang around structure like pilings and jetties, using their powerful jaws to crush crustaceans. We'll use specialized techniques to target them, and when you hook one, you'll see why they're a favorite among local anglers. They're also excellent table fare, so be sure to keep a few for dinner.

Sea Trout: While not the primary target on this trip, we often encounter sea trout, especially in the cooler months. These spotted predators are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic jumps. We'll use a variety of artificial lures to entice them, from topwater plugs to soft plastics. The satisfaction of a trout blowing up on a surface lure is hard to beat.

Redfish: The crowned jewel of inshore fishing, redfish are always a possibility on our trips. These copper-colored beauties are known for their distinctive spot near the tail and their hard-pulling fights. We'll look for them tailing in shallow water or cruising the flats. Sight-casting to a big red is one of the most exciting experiences in inshore fishing.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

This isn't just another day of fishing – it's a chance to hone your skills and target some of the most challenging inshore species around. Captain Andrew's local knowledge means you're not wasting time searching; you're fishing productive spots from the get-go. The afternoon timing hits the sweet spot for feeding patterns, increasing your chances of a memorable catch. Plus, with fish cleaning included, you can go from bay to plate with minimal fuss. It's the perfect setup for anglers who want to maximize their time on the water and come back with stories (and dinners) to brag about.

Top Catches This Season

While every trip is different, we've been seeing some impressive catches lately. Anglers have been pulling in hefty black drum in the 20-30 pound range, especially around the deeper holes. The flounder bite has been particularly good during the evening hours, with several doormat-sized fish over 5 pounds hitting the deck. Sheepshead have been thick around the jetties, providing non-stop action for those who've mastered the technique. And let's not forget the bonus redfish – we've had a few bulls over 40 inches give anglers the fight of their lives.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're an experienced angler looking to level up your inshore game, this is the trip for you. With Captain Andrew's expertise, top-notch gear, and a prime afternoon slot, you're set up for success from the moment you step aboard. Whether you're after the challenge of sight-casting to tailing reds, the thrill of hooking a big black drum, or the satisfaction of outsmarting a wary flounder, this charter delivers. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Grab your fishing buddy, pack your waders, and get ready for an afternoon of world-class bay fishing in South Padre Island. The fish are waiting – are you ready to meet them?

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black Drum are the heavyweights of the drum family, typically 5-30 pounds but can reach a whopping 90 pounds. You'll find them in brackish waters and estuaries, often hanging around oyster beds and other structures. Spring's the best time to target them, as they school up for spawning. Anglers love Black Drum for their strong fight and the distinctive drumming sound they make. They're bottom feeders, so use fresh crab, shrimp, or clams as bait. A local tip: when fishing for big ones, use a stout rod and reel combo - these fish can really pull. Smaller Black Drum (under 15 pounds) are great eating, with a sweet, flaky meat. The bigger ones can be tough and less tasty, so consider releasing those giants. Listen for their croaking sounds to help locate them, especially during spawning season.

Redfish

Redfish, also called Red Drum, are a staple of inshore fishing. They typically range from 20-40 inches and can weigh up to 50 pounds. You'll find them in shallow waters, often tailing in less than 2 feet of water. Look for them around oyster beds, grass flats, and marsh edges. Fall is prime time for big bulls, but you can catch them year-round. Anglers love Redfish for their powerful runs and their distinctive tail spot. They'll hit a variety of lures, but live bait like mullet or shrimp is hard to beat. Here's a local tip: when sight-fishing, cast well ahead of the fish and slowly drag your bait into their path. Redfish have excellent eyesight, so stealth is key. They put up a great fight, especially in shallow water, and make for some delicious eating when cooked on the half-shell.

Sea Trout

Sea Trout, also known as Speckled Trout, are a favorite among coastal anglers. These silvery fish typically range from 14-24 inches and weigh 1-5 pounds. You'll find them in shallow waters, grass flats, and around structure. They're most active during cooler months, especially at dawn and dusk. Anglers love Sea Trout for their aggressive strikes and tasty, tender meat. They're visual predators, so lures that mimic small baitfish work well. Try topwater plugs early in the morning for explosive action. A local tip: look for "slicks" on the water surface - these oily patches often indicate feeding trout. When you find one, throw a soft plastic on a jighead and work it slowly. Sea Trout put up a good fight on light tackle and make for some fantastic eating. Just be careful not to overcook them, or they'll get mushy.

Sheepshead

Sheepshead, nicknamed "convict fish" for their distinctive black stripes, are a real treat to catch. They typically weigh 1-8 pounds and grow up to 20 inches. You'll find them around structures like docks, bridges, and reefs - anywhere with barnacles. These fish are known for their human-like teeth, perfect for crushing shellfish. Spring's the best time to target them as they gather to spawn. Anglers love the challenge of hooking these bait-stealers and their excellent table fare. Use small hooks and natural baits like fiddler crabs or shrimp. Here's a local trick: when you feel a nibble, wait a second before setting the hook. Sheepshead are notorious for stealing bait, so give them time to really take it. Their fight is impressive for their size, and their white, flaky meat is delicious.

Southern Flounder

Southern Flounder are masters of camouflage, blending in with sandy or muddy bottoms. They 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 for flounder fishing as they migrate to spawn. Anglers love targeting them for their tasty white meat and the challenge of hooking these bottom-dwellers. They're ambush predators, so look for them near structure or dropoffs. Use a slow retrieve with live bait or soft plastics, keeping your offering close to the bottom. A local trick: when you feel a bite, don't set the hook immediately. Give the flounder a few seconds to fully take the bait, then set it hard. These flatfish put up a decent fight and make for some of the best eating around.

Sitemap