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Experience the best of Matagorda with our curated list of must-visit spots and exciting things to do. Dive into coastal charm today!

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Things To Do In Matagorda 

Hot bite and happy crew! Melanie and their crew joined us for an early morning summer trip on Matagorda Bay. We launched at 7:00 am with partly cloudy skies overhead and good water conditions throughout Matagorda. The weather stayed comfortable all day, giving us perfect conditions for our 5 Hour Guided Trip with Captain Shannon – Book Your Matagorda Bay Experience through Captain Shannon's Charters.

With our gear rigged and ready, we worked the flats using sight fishing, drift fishing, and bottom fishing techniques to target the speckled trout. Matagorda Bay is prime territory for inshore fishing because the varied depths and structure let us switch between techniques as conditions change. The sight fishing worked great in the shallows while we hammered down with bottom fishing in the deeper pockets. We wrapped up the trip with speckled trout in the cooler and big ol' smiles all around!

Y'all looking to get in on some Matagorda Bay inshore fishing action? Our Matagorda Bay Inshore Fishing Charter for Redfish, Trout, and Black Drum puts you right where the fish are biting! We run sight fishing, drift fishing, and bottom fishing techniques depending on what the trout and redfish are doing that day. Matagorda Bay's got the structure and baitfish that keep these inshore species active year-round. Whether you're fixin' to fill the cooler or just want to feel that tug, our 5-hour trips give you plenty of time to work the water right. The bay's shallow flats and deeper channels mean we can adjust our approach and keep you on fish all day. Reckon it's time to book your Matagorda Bay experience with Captain Shannon's Charters and see what this inshore fishing is all about!

Guide

Join Captain Shannon for thrilling Matagorda Bay speckled trout fishing with sight, drift, and bottom techniques on perfect waters—book your adventure today!

Matagorda Bay Fishing Trip | Captain Shannon's Charters

Air Fee

Bait Fee

Divemaster Fee

Mate's Fee

Nitrox Fee

Service Fee

State Taxes

Trimix Fee

Spend 5 hours on the water with Captain Shannon’s Charters exploring the inshore bays and flats of Matagorda, targeting a variety of Gulf Coast favorites such as Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, Black Drum, and Sheepshead. This guided trip is open to all skill levels, making it a solid choice for both beginners and experienced anglers. Captain Shannon provides professional guidance, gear, and local knowledge to help you make the most of your time on the water. Expect a well-structured outing focused on fishing success, with everything you need for a safe and productive day provided. *Deposits are non-refundable (see Trips &amp; Rates page).

Black Drum

Redfish

Sheepshead

Spanish Mackerel

Center console boats

189 County Rd 213, Matagorda, TX 77457, USA

189 County Rd 213

5.00hour

Matagorda Bay Inshore Fishing Charter for Redfish, Trout, and Black Drum

Fishing rod held over ocean water from boat deck during sunset

Fishing from boat deck on open water with fishing rod and equipment visible

Fishing on boat deck with rod and equipment visible on water

Fishing from boat with rod extended over water

Four anglers displaying their catch of speckled trout during an outdoor fishing trip

Melanie's crew strikes gold on Matagorda Bay trout adventure!

Matagorda Bay Speckled Trout Success with Captain Shannon

Sea Trout

Camp Week Success Continues — July 17th Open + Scattered Afternoon Trips (513) 616-1396

Boys got their trout drifting today! Gotta love camp weeks. Back at it again tomorrow! 
Still have the 17th open and scattered afternoon trips this month, gimme a call and let’s go fishin!
(513) 616-1396

Fresh caught speckled trout and southern kingcroaker displayed on cleaning table at Matagorda TX fishing harbor

Speckled trout catch displayed on fishing boat in Matagorda TX waters

Speckled trout catch from fishing trip in Matagorda TX waters

Tough Conditions on the Water, But the Fish Still Came Together (513) 616-1396

Boys put it to em in the wind today. Fishing was hard but still managed to get a little box together!
(513) 616-1396 

Spotted seatrout caught while fishing in Matagorda TX waters

Fresh caught redfish and speckled trout displayed on cleaning table at Matagorda Texas fishing station

Southern flounder catch from Matagorda TX fishing trip on boat deck

Redfish caught while fishing in Matagorda TX waters

Two young anglers displaying caught redfish on boat in Matagorda TX waters

Offshore Cancelled — Now Available for Hot Bay Fishing, Drifting or Wading (513) 616-1396

DAY JUST BECAME OPEN!!
Mondays offshore just got rescheduled so I have that day open for bay fishing now. Drifting or wading, fishing has been on fire lately. Gimme a call and let’s go fill a cooler!
(513) 616-1396

Successful fishing trip in Matagorda TX with fresh caught fish displayed on boat deck at sunset

Redfish catch on fishing boat in Matagorda TX waters

Successful speckled trout fishing trip in Matagorda TX with multiple fish displayed on boat deck at sunset

Successful fishing trip display of fresh caught fish at Matagorda TX marina

Big Redfish, Trout, and Flounder Lead a Clean Sweep — July Dates Open for Kids Trips (513) 616-1396

Hook Spit Junior Anglers Association Week one camp was a sweep! Big Redfish, Big Trout, Big Flounder, and first place heavy stringer! These camps are so much fun and I look forward to them every year! Big shout out to these boys this week for kickin butt!
Got some days in July if you have some kids that you want to get out on the water, gimme a call and let’s go fishin!
(513) 616-1396 

Fishing tournament winners holding large check and trophies at Hook Spit competition in Matagorda TX

Angler fishing from boat deck with bent rod indicating fish on line in Matagorda TX waters

Speckled trout caught fishing in Matagorda TX waters

Redfish catch displayed on boat in Matagorda TX waters

Young angler holding fishing tournament award at Hook Spit HSJAA event in Matagorda TX

Two anglers displaying freshly caught redfish on boat in Matagorda TX waters

Redfish caught while fishing on boat in Matagorda TX

Redfish fishing tournament banner with large fish graphics at Matagorda TX fishing event

Fast Boats in the Mix, But We Still Put Fish in the Cooler — July Dates Still Open (513) 616-1396

About got ran over by all the so called “tournament fisherman” in their go fast boats today. Still put it to em though! July still has some open days! Let’s go fill a cooler! (513) 616-1396

Fresh caught fish displayed on cleaning station table in Matagorda Texas

The spring transition is officially here in Matagorda, and despite some challenging weather over the last 24 hours, the bite remains incredibly productive. Heavy fog and high winds swept through the area last night, creating less-than-ideal visibility and surface conditions. However, the fish didn't seem to mind the shift, as the shoreline activity was high throughout the morning.

We located massive schools of glass minnows pushed up against the banks, which served as a primary dinner bell for local predators. The highlight of the trip was the non-stop topwater action. Seeing consistent blowups on the surface provided a clear indicator that the fish are moving into their aggressive spring patterns. If you are looking for a productive day on the water, the bait is plentiful and the fish are hungry.

Matagorda Spring Fishing: Topwater Action Heating Up

Hot bite and happy crew! Matt and their crew joined me for a December waterfowl hunt in the early morning hours around Matagorda Bay. Partly cloudy skies gave us solid hunting conditions as we headed out for our full-day adventure with Captain Shannon's Charters.

Once the stage was set, we worked the wetlands using spot-and-stalk and still hunting techniques to get on the Greater White-fronted Goose. The crew stayed focused as we moved between productive areas, and our drive hunting approach paid off when we connected with these big ol' birds. Matagorda Bay's coastal habitat gives hunters the perfect setup for working waterfowl, and y'all could see why this area produces consistently.

We wrapped up the hunt with smiles all around! The crew did git-r-done on those geese, and I reckon they'll be back for more action. That dog don't hunt when you don't put in the work, but these hunters stayed sharp all day and made their shots count.

If you're fixin' to book your own Matagorda Duck Hunting Guided Trip, our Full-Day 8 Hour Hunt with Captain Shannon gives you the complete waterfowl experience on Matagorda Bay. We scout the best spots, provide quality gear, and work the proven techniques that produce results in these productive wetlands. Our 8-hour guided hunts cover the prime coastal blinds where Greater White-fronted Geese and other waterfowl concentrate during peak season. Captain Shannon's Charters has the local knowledge and experience to put you on birds, whether you're new to waterfowl hunting or looking to add to your season count. Gimme a holler and let's get you booked for your next hunt!

Join Matt's crew for hot Greater White-fronted Goose action at Matagorda Bay—spot-and-stalk tactics, coastal wetlands, and big birds deliver pure waterfowl thrills!

Matagorda Bay Waterfowl Hunt | December Geese Success

Join Captain Shannon’s Charters for an 8-hour guided duck hunt in the wetlands of Matagorda Bay, one of the most productive waterfowl habitats on the Texas Gulf Coast. This trip is open to hunters of all skill levels, offering a well-organized outing in proven hunting grounds. Captain Shannon provides professional guidance, local expertise, and quality gear to ensure a safe and structured hunt. Guests can expect a full day of active hunting in coastal blinds with opportunities to target a variety of duck species. With experienced leadership and well-scouted locations, every group benefits from a rewarding and focused day in the field. *Deposits are non-refundable (see Trips &amp; Rates page).

8.00hour

Matagorda Duck Hunting Guided Trip

Coastal Wetlands Deliver Hot Action on White-fronted Geese!

Matt's Crew Bags Greater White-fronted Geese at Matagorda Bay

Just another day! 3rd year around and Trey finally out fished grandpa! Novembers filling up fast!
(513) 616-1396

Trey Takes the Crown

Just some redfish doin redfish things in the marsh. Boys killed it today!
(513) 616-1396

Marsh Redfish, No Mercy

Another fun morning! Slack tides made us work today but we still put together a good box! I have no days left in November, get in on the few December days left!
(513) 616-1396

7 black drum fish caught while fishing in TX

December Slots Filling Fast

Fall Fishing in Matagorda

Fall fishing is right around the corner! When the temperatures start to cool the fishing heats up the best! Gimme a call and let’s go have a day!

A sunrise bite on the water is hard to beat! Saturday and Sunday just opened up for me. Let’s go put a hurtin on some Trucha’s!    513-616-1396

Now Booking Weekend Trout Trips – Let’s Chase That Sunrise Bite!

Double dip yesterday with two fun groups! Mamas birthday present in the morning and a surprise best man booked bachelor trip in the afternoon! Come fill the cooler and enjoy the beautiful spring weather. Gimme a call and let’s go!
(513) 616-1396


Matagorda Bay Fishing Reports 

Read expert Fishing articles, travel insights, and local stories from Captain Shannon’s Charters in Matagorda. Stay informed and inspired for your next adventure.

Matagorda Fishing Articles & Insights | Captain Shannon’s Charters

Embark on an unforgettable water adventure with Captain Shannon's Charters, a renowned Matagorda fishing guide based in the stunning Matagorda Bay. With Captain Zack at the helm, prepare for an exceptional day of fishing in one of Texas' most bountiful coastal waters. Captain Zack is dedicated to ensuring your experience is nothing short of fantastic. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, he'll tailor the trip to suit your preferences and skill level, ensuring a memorable and successful day on the water. Matagorda Bay is renowned for its diverse marine life, offering exciting opportunities to reel in a variety of prized catches Offering 8-hour trips targeting Redfish, Flounder, Speckled Trout, Black Drum, Tripletail, and Sheepshead, Captain Zack's Matagorda fishing guides tailor the experience based on seasonal and weather conditions in Matagorda Bay. The charter provides a 24' Haynie boat, accommodating up to 5 anglers for a premier Matagorda Bay fishing experience. The boat is equipped with an ice box and a wireless trolling motor, perfect for light tackle or heavy tackle fishing in Matagorda Bay. All necessary rods, reels, and terminal tackle are included in the trip price for your Matagorda fishing adventure. Please remember to obtain a valid fishing license in advance for your Matagorda Bay fishing trip. Guests are permitted to keep all legal species caught during the Matagorda fishing trip with Captain Shannon's Charters. The boat is stocked with beverages for your enjoyment, but feel free to bring your own refreshments for your Matagorda Bay fishing expedition. This child-friendly Matagorda fishing charter is perfect for families seeking a fun fly fishing or light tackle experience in Matagorda Bay. Don't miss out on this opportunity—book your Matagorda fishing trip now and set sail with Captain Shannon's Charters, one of the top Matagorda Bay fishing guides in the area. Captain Shannon's Charters offers a unique and unforgettable fishing experience, led by Captain Zack. With Captain Zack's guidance, you'll explore the abundant waters of Matagorda Bay, known for its diverse marine life and excellent fishing opportunities. So, grab your gear and get ready for an exciting adventure with Captain Shannon's Charters in beautiful Matagorda Bay.

EPSG:4269

Give the gift of a day on the water in Matagorda. This voucher covers a professional fishing trip with Captain Shannon’s Charters, where high-quality 

E-GIFT CARDS

The spring transition is officially here in Matagorda, and despite some challenging weather over the last 24 hours, the bite remains incredibly produc

Ready to reel in unforgettable memories on the waters of Matagorda Bay? Book your fishing trip with Captain Shannon's Charters today and embark on an adventure filled with excitement, expert guidance, and prized catches. Don't miss out on the opportunity to create lasting memories with friends and family - reserve your spot now!

Captain Shannon’s Charters is your go-to guide service for fishing and hunting adventures along the Texas Gulf Coast. Based in Matagorda, we specialize in guided trips that are both fun and productive, offering something for anglers and hunters of all experience levels. From fly fishing for Redfish and Black Drum to light and heavy tackle outings, every trip is backed by quality equipment and years of on-the-water know-how. Our team is passionate about providing guests with a smooth, well-organized outdoor experience, and we tailor each trip to match your goals and skill level. We fish the Gulf of Mexico and East Matagorda Bay, targeting species like Red Snapper, Tarpon, Flounder, Tripletail, Sheepshead, Spanish Mackerel, and Speckled Trout. We also offer waterfowl and crane hunts guided by the experienced and friendly Guide Zack. Duck, geese, and Sandhill Crane hunts are available for those looking to enjoy a day in the field. Our meeting location is at 189 County Rd 213 in Matagorda, Texas. Whether casting a line or setting up in the blind, Captain Shannon’s Charters is here to deliver a reliable and enjoyable day outdoors.

Give the gift of a day on the water in Matagorda. This voucher covers a professional fishing trip with Captain Shannon’s Charters, where high-quality gear and local knowledge lead to a heavy cooler.

Give a Matagorda Fishing Trip

This certificate is valid for a professional fishing trip in Matagorda, Texas. Enjoy a full day of targeting local species with Captain Shannon’s Charters, featuring expert guidance and all the necessary gear for a productive haul.

A Day on the Water in Matagorda

Guide Zack Shannon is a seasoned fishing and hunting guide based in Matagorda, Texas, with years of experience exploring the waters of Matagorda Bay and its surrounding marshes. Known for his steady leadership and deep local knowledge, Zack has built a reputation for guiding trips that are safe, well-organized, and rewarding. His focus has always been on creating meaningful outdoor experiences, whether introducing newcomers to the sport or helping experienced anglers refine their skills. Guests quickly notice his approachable style and confidence on the water, which come from a lifetime of fishing and hunting in this region. Zack’s expertise covers a wide range of fishing techniques, making him adaptable to the conditions and the preferences of his guests. From light tackle and fly fishing to bowfishing and flounder gigging, he enjoys tailoring each trip to the season and species. Redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and black drum are among the most common targets under his guidance, and he has a track record of putting anglers on fish throughout the year. His patient, hands-on approach makes the experience not only successful but also educational, giving guests practical skills they can carry forward. Beyond fishing, Zack brings his passion for the outdoors to waterfowl hunting across the Texas Gulf Coast. He regularly guides trips for ducks, geese, and Sandhill Cranes, drawing on his knowledge of seasonal migrations and local habitats. From scouting locations to setting up blinds and calling birds, Zack ensures hunters have the best possible chance for success while maintaining a professional, easygoing atmosphere. His goal is to make each outing both memorable and comfortable, no matter the weather or conditions. About the BoatCaptain Zack operates a 24-foot Transport center console bay boat powered by a reliable Yamaha 250HP engine. Built in 2016, the boat is designed to navigate the shallow waters of Matagorda Bay while providing a stable, comfortable ride for up to five guests. Its layout offers plenty of space for anglers and hunters alike, with well-maintained gear and thoughtful preparation evident on every trip. Whether heading out at sunrise to fish the bay or traveling across the marsh for a waterfowl hunt, guests can count on a dependable vessel that supports a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish.

Meet Guide Zack Shannon and Captain Shannon's Charters

Join our renowned 8-hour Sandhill Crane hunt in Matagorda Bay. Expert guides, prime locations. Book now for an unforgettable Texas adventure!

Fowl Chase

Renowned Sandhill Crane Hunt in Matagorda Bay

Book a premium inshore fishing trip in Matagorda Bay. Target redfish, trout, and drum with local experts.

Bay Bounty

World-Class Matagorda Bay Inshore Fishing Charter

Join our renowned 8-hour guided duck hunt in Matagorda Bay's wetlands. Book now for a premium Texas Gulf Coast experience!

Duck Quest

Top-Rated Matagorda Duck Hunt with Capt. Shannon

Book a 5-hour inshore fishing charter in Matagorda Bay. Target redfish, trout, and drum with expert guidance. All gear provided.

Bay Blast

Premium Matagorda Bay Fishing with Capt. Shannon

Join Captain Shannon's Charters for a world-class goose hunting adventure in Matagorda Bay. Book your 8-hour guided trip today!

Bird Blast

Expert Guided Geese Hunt in Matagorda Bay

Common Questions What is the best bait for Matagorda bay?﻿The best bait for Matagorda Bay depends on the season and target species. Live shrimp, mullet, and croaker are popular choices. Captain Shannon's Charters provides expert advice on bait selection based on current conditions, ensuring a successful fishing trip. Can you hunt on Matagorda Island?Yes, hunting is allowed on Matagorda Island, but hunters must obtain the appropriate permits and follow all Texas Parks and Wildlife Department regulations. Captain Shannon's Charters offers guided hunting trips on Matagorda Island, providing hunters with a memorable and successful hunting experience. Can tourists hunt in Texas?Yes, tourists can hunt in Texas by following state regulations. Captain Shannon's Charters offers guided hunting trips, providing tourists with a memorable hunting experience in Texas. How much does a fishing trip with Captain Shannon’s Charters cost?Pricing depends on the type of trip, number of anglers, and duration. Captain Shannon’s Charters offers competitive rates for both half-day and full-day guided trips in Matagorda, TX. For the latest pricing, you can contact Captain Shannon directly to get a quote tailored to your group. What types of fishing trips does Captain Shannon’s Charters offer?Captain Shannon runs guided inshore fishing trips targeting popular Matagorda Bay species such as redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and black drum. Seasonal hunting and cast-and-blast packages are also available, combining duck hunting in the morning with fishing in the afternoon. What’s included in a guided fishing trip?All fishing trips include a professional USCG-licensed captain, boat, fuel, tackle, rods, reels, and bait. Captain Shannon also provides ice and fish cleaning at the end of your trip, so you can head home with ready-to-cook fillets. What should I bring for my fishing charter?Guests should bring a valid Texas fishing license with a saltwater endorsement, sunscreen, sunglasses, weather-appropriate clothing, snacks, and drinks. A small cooler is welcome for personal items, while the captain provides a larger one for your catch. When is the best time to fish in Matagorda, TX?Fishing in Matagorda is productive year-round, but peak seasons vary by species. Spring and fall are great for trout and redfish, while summer is excellent for offshore runs and flounder gigging. Winter offers consistent redfish action in the back lakes. Does Captain Shannon’s Charters offer hunting trips?Yes. During duck season, Captain Shannon offers guided hunting trips in Matagorda’s marshes and bays. Hunters can also book cast-and-blast packages, which combine a morning duck hunt with an afternoon fishing trip. How many people can join a trip?Most trips can accommodate up to 4 anglers comfortably, but arrangements can be made for larger groups with advance notice. Captain Shannon works to customize each trip based on group size and fishing goals. Do I need prior fishing experience to book a trip?Not at all. Captain Shannon’s Charters welcomes beginners, families, and seasoned anglers alike. The captain provides expert guidance and handles the technical details, ensuring everyone has a fun and productive day on the water. Can kids join a fishing trip with Captain Shannon?Yes, children are welcome on fishing charters. Captain Shannon enjoys teaching young anglers and making sure they have a safe, exciting introduction to fishing in Matagorda Bay. How do I book a trip with Captain Shannon’s Charters?Booking is simple—just call or message Captain Shannon directly to secure your date. Trips often fill up quickly during prime fishing and hunting seasons, so reserving early is recommended.

Cancel before this guide’s cancellation window to get a full refund.

Spend a full day fishing the productive waters of Matagorda Bay with Captain Shannon’s Charters. This 8-hour guided trip focuses on inshore species including Redfish, Flounder, Speckled Trout, Black Drum, and Sheepshead. Suitable for anglers of all skill levels, the trip provides quality gear, bait, and expert guidance to help you make the most of your time on the water. Captain Shannon’s local knowledge ensures you’ll be positioned in proven fishing areas. Whether you’re refining your skills or enjoying a first outing, this trip offers a structured and rewarding fishing experience. *Deposits are non-refundable (see Trips &amp; Rates page).

Captain Shannon’s Charters offers an 8-hour guided goose hunt in the fields and flats near Matagorda Bay, TX. This active hunting trip is designed for all skill levels, placing hunters in prime areas where geese are known to gather. With expert guidance from Captain Shannon and Guide Zack, guests benefit from local knowledge, proven strategies, and quality outfitting. The trip includes well-scouted locations, hunting gear, and a structured setup to maximize success while maintaining safety in the field. Whether you are new to waterfowl hunting or an experienced hunter seeking a productive outing, this full-day goose hunt provides a focused and organized experience. *Deposits are non-refundable (see Trips &amp; Rates page).

Guided Goose Hunting Trip in Matagorda TX

Join Captain Shannon’s Charters for an 8-hour Sandhill Crane hunt in the Matagorda Bay region of Texas. This active hunting trip is designed for both seasoned waterfowl hunters and beginners, offering the opportunity to target one of the most sought-after migratory birds along the Gulf Coast. Guests will hunt in proven locations where Sandhill Cranes are abundant, using quality equipment and effective setups led by an experienced guide. The trip includes professional guidance, hunting gear, and a safe, well-planned outing in the field. With local knowledge and years of experience, Captain Shannon ensures each group enjoys a focused, productive hunt in prime habitat. *Deposits are non-refundable (see Trips &amp; Rates page).