World-Class Inshore Fishing | South Padre Island

Published Date: July 16, 2025
Fishing

South Padre Island
$350 - $600 price range

Summary

Ready for some winter fishing action? Captain Andrew's got you covered with this 3-hour charter trip off South Padre Island. From November to March, you'll head out to some prime spots where the fish are biting. The inshore waters here are teeming with a variety of species, so there's always a chance for a good catch. Whether you're an old pro or it's your first time holding a rod, the experienced crew will make sure you're set up for success. They've got all the gear you need, and they know just where to find the fish. With room for three guests, it's perfect for a small group or family outing. You'll get a real taste of Texas coastal fishing, learning techniques and insider tips along the way. Keep an eye out for local wildlife too – you never know what you might spot out on the water. It's a great way to spend a few hours, enjoying the mild winter weather and the thrill of the catch.

World-Class Inshore Fishing | South Padre Island

Reeling Them In

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

Winter Fishing Magic: South Padre Island's Best Kept Secret

Ready to shake off those winter blues? Hop aboard our 3-hour charter and discover why South Padre Island is a hidden gem for cold-weather fishing. From November to March, we're serving up some of the hottest action on the Texas coast. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, our winter trips are the perfect cure for cabin fever. So grab your buddies (we can take up to 3), and let's hit the water!

Trip Overview

Picture this: You're bundled up, sipping hot coffee as we cruise out at dawn. The island's famous winter fog is lifting, revealing a playground of fish-rich waters. Our seasoned captain knows every nook and cranny where the big ones hide when it's chilly. We're talking about spots most tourists never even hear about. You'll be casting lines before you know it, feeling that telltale tug that means dinner's on the hook. And the best part? Winter means fewer boats and more fish for us. It's like having your own private fishing hole.

What to Expect on the Water

Leave your fancy gear at home - we've got you covered with top-notch rods, reels, and bait. Our boat's decked out with the latest fish-finding tech, so we're always on the bite. We'll mix it up between drifting and anchoring, depending on what the fish are doing that day. Might throw some soft plastics, maybe soak some live shrimp - whatever's working, we're on it. And don't worry about the chill; our heated cabin's there when you need to warm up those fingers. Just remember to layer up and bring a waterproof jacket. The fish don't mind the cold, and neither will you once they start biting!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Look, we could brag all day about our top-rated charters or how we're the customer favorite for winter fishing. But the real reason folks come back year after year? It's the thrill of battling a big redfish in the crisp winter air. It's the way a school of black drum can turn a slow morning into the story you'll be telling for years. And let's be honest - it's also about escaping the mainland crowds and having a slice of paradise to yourself. Our repeat customers will tell you: there's nothing like a South Padre winter day on the water.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Southern Flounder: These flatfish are the kings of camouflage, blending in with the sandy bottom like they're invisible. But come winter, they're on the move and hungry. We target them around structure and drop-offs, using slow-moving baits. Flounder might not look like much, but their fight is surprisingly feisty, and they're some of the best eating fish out there. Peak season is November to December when they're migrating to spawn.

Black Drum: The gentle giants of our bays, black drum can grow to over 50 pounds. In winter, they school up in deeper holes, making for some epic catch-and-release action. We'll often find them by listening for their distinctive croaking sound. They're suckers for crab and shrimp baits, and when a big one hits, hold on tight! February and March are prime time for the trophy-sized "bull" drum.

Sheepshead: With their human-like teeth and zebra stripes, sheepshead are the oddballs of our winter fishery. They hang around structure, using those chompers to crush barnacles and crabs. Targeting them takes finesse - light tackle and a subtle touch. But man, are they worth it. Their white, flaky meat is a local delicacy. You'll find them all winter long, but they really bunch up in February for their spawn.

Sea Trout: Also known as speckled trout, these spotted beauties are a staple of Texas inshore fishing. In winter, they move to deeper, warmer waters, often staging in channels and holes. We'll target them with soft plastics or live bait under a popping cork. Their hit is lightning-fast, and they're known for their acrobatic jumps. The colder months can produce some of the biggest trout of the year.

Redfish: The crown jewel of Texas inshore fishing, redfish (or red drum) are year-round targets that shine in winter. They school up in shallow flats on sunny days, creating the perfect scenario for sight-casting. That copper body with the black spot on the tail is unmistakable. When a big red takes off on a run, you'll understand why anglers travel from all over to tangle with these brutes. Winter reds tend to be on the larger side, with plenty of bull reds in the mix.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, we could go on all day about the magic of winter fishing in South Padre. But why read about it when you could be living it? Our 3-hour trips are perfect for squeezing in some quality fishing time without eating up your whole day. And with only 3 spots per trip, you're guaranteed plenty of personalized attention from the captain. Whether you're looking to fill the freezer or just want to feel the bend in your rod, we've got you covered. Winter's not waiting, and neither should you. Give us a call, and let's get you on the water for some of the best cold-weather fishing Texas has to offer. Trust me, your future self will thank you for it!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black Drum are big bruisers that'll give you a real workout. Adults average 5-30 pounds but can top 90 pounds in the right conditions. Look for them around oyster beds, mudflats, and other structures in brackish waters. They use those powerful jaws to crush shellfish, so fishing near oyster reefs is a good bet. Spring's the prime time as they school up to spawn, making them easier to target. Anglers love Drum for their strong fights and good eating, especially the smaller ones under 15 pounds. To land one, use fresh crab or shrimp on the bottom. Here's a local tip - crushed blue crab is like candy to these fish. Just be ready when they hit - Black Drum can pull like a freight train. And listen closely - you might hear their signature drumming sound underwater as they communicate. It's a unique fishing experience you won't forget.

Redfish

Redfish, or Red Drum, are the rockstars of our inshore waters. They typically run 28-33 inches when mature, but trophy "bull reds" over 40 inches aren't uncommon. Look for them in super shallow water - sometimes with their backs out of the water! They love hanging around oyster reefs, grass flats, and other structure in 1-4 feet of water. Fall and winter are prime seasons as they school up. Anglers love reds for their powerful fights and excellent eating quality. To land one, try sight-casting in the shallows with topwater lures or live bait like mullet or crab. Here's a local tip - look for their distinctive tail wakes or "tailing" behavior in shallow grass flats. When you hook up, hang on tight - even smaller reds pull like freight trains. It's an experience you won't forget.

Sea Trout

Sea Trout, also called Speckled Trout, are a staple here in South Padre. They typically run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds, though trophy fish over 10 pounds aren't unheard of. Look for them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They love to ambush prey, so fishing around structures or drop-offs can be productive. Winter's actually a great time as they school up in deeper channels. Anglers prize Sea Trout for their sporty fight and excellent taste. To catch one, try live shrimp under a popping cork or artificial lures like jerk baits and topwater plugs. Here's a local tip - if you're having trouble finding them, try slow-trolling along grass lines. When you feel that distinctive tap-tap-tap, set the hook quick. These guys have soft mouths, so a steady retrieve is key to getting them in the boat.

Sheepshead

Sheepshead, or convict fish, are some of the wiliest targets in our waters. They usually run 1-8 pounds and 14-20 inches, but monster 20-pounders do show up. You'll find them around any structure with barnacles - docks, bridges, jetties. They're notorious bait stealers with those human-like teeth, so be ready for some frustration. Early spring is prime time as they school up to spawn. Anglers love the challenge and the sweet, white meat that makes great table fare. To land one, get your bait right up against the structure. Fresh fiddler crab or shrimp work well. Here's a local trick - scrape some barnacles off a piling to chum them up. When you feel that subtle nibble, set the hook hard and fast. It takes some practice, but landing a big sheepshead is deeply satisfying.

Southern Flounder

Southern Flounder are a favorite target here in South Padre. These flatfish typically range from 15-18 inches but can grow up to 33 inches and 20 pounds. You'll find them lurking on sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. Flounder are ambush predators, lying camouflaged on the bottom waiting to strike. Winter is prime time as adults move offshore to spawn. Anglers love flounder for their delicate, mild flavor and the challenge of hooking these masters of disguise. To land one, try drifting or still fishing near the bottom with live bait like mullet or shrimp. A local trick is to use a slip lead rig with a 1/4 to 3/8 oz head - this keeps your bait in the strike zone. When you feel that telltale nibble, set the hook hard and fast. These flatties have soft mouths, so a steady retrieve is key to getting them in the boat.

About the Marshall Topwater

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Evinrude

Maximum Cruising Speed: 35

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 200

Get ready for an awesome winter fishing adventure on South Padre Island! From November through March, we offer laid-back 3-hour charters that'll have you reeling in some great catches. Our cozy boat has room for you and two buddies, making it perfect for a small group outing. We've got all the gear you need, so just bring yourself and be ready to cast a line. Our experienced local guides know all the best spots where the fish are biting. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time holding a rod, we'll make sure you have a blast out on the water. You might hook into some redfish, speckled trout, or other tasty inshore species. The mild winter weather here is ideal for a relaxing day of fishing. You'll get to take in the beautiful coastal scenery while trying your luck. By the end of the trip, you'll have some great stories to tell and maybe even a fresh catch for dinner. Come join us for some quality time on the water and see why winter fishing on South Padre Island is so special!

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