Beginner's Dream: Matagorda Bay Fishing Trip

Published Date: September 14, 2025
Fishing

Matagorda
$500 - $850 price range

Summary

Looking to get into fishing but not sure where to start? This full-day trip on Matagorda Bay is perfect for beginners and families wanting to learn the ropes. Captains Nicolas and Chris are patient teachers who'll show you the basics of casting, baiting hooks, and reeling in your catch. You'll target popular fish like Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, Flounder, and Black Drum in the calm waters of the bay. The 21-foot boat has plenty of room for up to 5 people, so bring the whole crew along. All the gear you need is provided – just remember your Texas fishing license, some snacks, and sun protection. Over 8 hours, you'll build confidence handling a rod and reel while soaking up the coastal scenery. It's a laid-back day on the water where you can ask questions, practice your technique, and hopefully land some nice fish to show for your efforts. Whether you're 8 or 80, this trip is a great way to get your feet wet in the world of bay fishing.

Beginner's Dream: Matagorda Bay Fishing Trip

Beginner's Catch of the Day

Sunset View While Fishing In Matagorda

Scenic view of Matagorda coastline, featuring the best fishing spots

Hop On For An Amazing Matagorda Fishing Adventure

Matagorda Bay's Redfish Hotspot!

Angler with a fishing rod standing in Matagorda

Matagorda Bay in Texas Flounder Expedition!

Cast Away in Matagorda Bay: Beginner's Paradise

Ready to dip your toes into the world of saltwater fishing? This full-day trip in Matagorda Bay is the perfect starting point for newbies and families looking to wet a line. Captains Nicolas and Chris know these waters like the back of their hand, and they're all about making sure you have a blast while learning the ropes. With calm waters and plenty of fish to catch, you'll be reeling 'em in before you know it!

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: You're cruising out on a sleek 21' JH Performance boat, the sun's warming your face, and the anticipation is building. Don't sweat it if you've never held a rod before - that's what the pros are here for. Over the next 8 hours, you'll get hands-on experience with everything from baiting your hook to landing your catch. The captains will show you the sweet spots where redfish, trout, and more like to hang out. And with room for up to 5 guests, it's perfect for bringing the whole crew along.

Fishing 101: Bay Style

Alright, let's talk technique. In Matagorda Bay, we're all about light tackle fishing. You'll learn how to cast your line just right, feel for that telltale nibble, and set the hook like a pro. The captains will show you how to work different lures and when to use live bait. And get this - the shallow waters here mean you might even spot your fish before you catch it. How cool is that? Don't worry about gear either; everything you need is provided. Just remember to grab that Texas fishing license before you head out.

Top Catches This Season

Matagorda Bay is teeming with fish, and you've got a shot at landing some real beauties. Let's break down what you might find on the end of your line:

Redfish: These copper-colored fighters are a favorite around here. They love hanging out in the shallows, and when they hit, hold on tight! Redfish can grow up to 40 inches long and put up a fight that'll have you grinning from ear to ear.

Spotted Seatrout: Also known as speckled trout, these guys are the bread and butter of bay fishing. They're quick, they're feisty, and they're delicious if you're looking to take some home for dinner. Look for them around grass flats and oyster reefs.

Flounder: These flat fish might not win any beauty contests, but they're a blast to catch. They like to hide out on the bottom, so you'll need to keep your bait low. The best time to target flounder is in the fall when they're moving to the Gulf to spawn.

Black Drum: These big boys can grow over 30 pounds, and they're not afraid to put up a fight. They love hanging around structure and will test your arms when you're reeling them in. Listen for their distinctive 'drumming' sound - it's how they got their name!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Matagorda Bay isn't just a fishing spot; it's a slice of Texas paradise. The calm waters make it perfect for beginners, but there's enough action to keep even seasoned anglers coming back for more. You've got a mix of bay, flats, and nearshore fishing all in one place. And let's not forget the views - with the coastline stretching out around you, it's easy to see why folks fall in love with fishing here.

Time to Book Your Spot

So, are you ready to cast a line in Matagorda Bay? This trip is more than just fishing - it's about making memories, learning new skills, and maybe even catching the fishing bug (trust me, it's contagious). Whether you're looking to spend quality time with the family or just want to try something new, Captain Nicolas and Chris have got you covered. With all the gear provided and expert guidance at your fingertips, there's never been a better time to give fishing a go. Don't let this chance slip away - book your spot now and get ready for a day on the water you won't forget. Who knows, you might just reel in the big one!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black Drum are hefty bottom-feeders that'll give you a solid fight. These cousins of the Redfish typically range from 5-30 pounds, but can get up to 90. You'll find them in Matagorda's shallow flats, oyster beds, and around pier pilings. Spring's your best bet when they school up to spawn. Folks love targeting them for their powerful pull and good eating, especially the smaller ones under 15 pounds. Their meat gets tough as they get bigger, so we usually release the big ones. To land one, use fresh crab or shrimp on a circle hook. Let it sit on the bottom and wait for that telltale thump. A local trick: listen for their distinctive croaking sound – it can give away their location when they're feeding in shallow water.

Redfish

Redfish are the crown jewels of Matagorda Bay fishing. These copper-colored beauties with a trademark black spot near the tail typically run 20-30 inches in the bay, but can get much bigger. You'll find them tailing in shallow flats, often in water barely deep enough to cover their backs. They love to cruise around oyster reefs and marsh edges, especially during falling tides. Redfish put up an incredible fight and are delicious on the grill. To catch one, try sight-casting with a gold spoon or soft plastic in super shallow water. Here's a tip: look for their tails breaking the surface as they root for crabs in the mud. Approach quietly, make an accurate cast, and hold on tight – when a big red takes off, it's an experience you won't forget.

Sea Trout

Sea Trout, also called Speckled Trout, are a favorite in Matagorda Bay. These silvery fish with distinctive spots usually run 14-24 inches and put up a great fight on light tackle. You'll find them around grass flats, oyster reefs, and deeper channels, especially at dawn and dusk. They're most active in spring and fall when the water's not too hot. Anglers love 'em for their aggressive strikes and mild, flaky meat. To catch one, try working a soft plastic jig or topwater lure over grass flats. Here's a local secret: on calm mornings, look for "slicks" – oily patches on the water's surface. These often indicate where trout are feeding, and can lead you right to the action.

Summer Flounder

Summer Flounder, or "doormats" as we call the big ones, are ambush predators with both eyes on one side. They're masters of camouflage, blending into sandy or muddy bottoms. Most run 15-20 inches, but they can hit 26 pounds. Look for them near drop-offs, channels, and structure in Matagorda Bay. Fall's prime time as they fatten up before winter. Anglers love 'em for their tasty white meat and the challenge of spotting them. To catch one, try drifting with live bait like mullet or croaker on a bottom rig. Work it slowly along the bottom with little hops. Here's a tip: when you feel a bite, don't set the hook right away. Give the flounder a few seconds to turn the bait in its mouth – that's when you'll get a solid hookup.

About the 21’ JH Performance

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5

Manufacturer Name: Evinrude

Maximum Cruising Speed: 45

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 200

Step aboard our trusty 21' JH Performance boat for a laid-back day of fishing in Matagorda Bay. This sturdy vessel is perfect for navigating the calm waters while providing ample space for up to 5 guests to cast their lines comfortably. The boat's stable design ensures a smooth ride, ideal for beginners finding their sea legs. With a spacious deck, there's plenty of room to move around and practice your casting technique under the guidance of Captains Nicolas and Chris. The boat is fully equipped with all the fishing gear you'll need, from rods and reels to bait and tackle. Its reliable engine will get you to the best fishing spots quickly, maximizing your time on the water. Whether you're reeling in a feisty Redfish or admiring the coastal scenery, this well-maintained boat offers a comfortable and safe platform for your 8-hour fishing adventure.

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