Get ready to chase some of the Gulf's most prized inshore species on this full-day adventure with Captain Shannon's Charters. We're talking about a solid 8 hours on Matagorda Bay, where the redfish, trout, and drum are always biting. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip's got you covered with all the gear and know-how you need to land the big one.
Picture this: You're cruising across Matagorda's calm waters at dawn, rod in hand, ready to hit Captain Shannon's honey holes. We're not messing around here – this is prime fishing territory. You'll be using top-notch gear and live bait to target redfish, speckled trout, black drum, flounder, and sheepshead. The captain's been doing this for years, so you're in for some serious fish-finding action. And don't worry if you're new to this – we'll show you the ropes, from casting to reeling in your catch.
On this trip, we're pulling out all the stops. We'll be drift fishing over grass flats, sight-casting to tailing reds in the shallows, and maybe even throwing some artificial lures if the bite is on. Captain Shannon's got a sixth sense for where the fish are holding, so we'll be switching up tactics to match what's working. You might find yourself working a popping cork for trout one minute, then freelining live shrimp for black drum the next. It's all about adapting to what the fish want, and that's where having a pro guide really pays off.
Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are the crown jewels of Matagorda Bay. Known for their hard-pulling fights and that distinctive black spot on their tail, redfish can range from "rat reds" of a few pounds to bull reds topping 40 inches. They love to cruise the shallows, often revealing their location with their tails sticking out of the water. Fall is prime time for reds, but you can catch them year-round in Matagorda.
Speckled Trout: Also called spotted seatrout, these guys are the bread and butter of Texas inshore fishing. They're known for their soft mouths and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Specks hang around grass beds and oyster reefs, and they're suckers for live shrimp or soft plastics. The best action is often early morning or late evening when they're feeding aggressively.
Black Drum: Don't let their ugly mugs fool you – black drum are fun to catch and great to eat (the smaller ones, anyway). These bottom-feeders have sensitive barbels they use to root out crabs and shrimp from the bay floor. They can grow huge, with some drum topping 50 pounds. Spring is the peak season when big schools move into the shallows to spawn.
Sheepshead: These striped convicts are the ultimate bait stealers, with their sheep-like teeth perfectly adapted for crushing crustaceans. Fishing for sheepshead is a test of patience and skill – you need to set the hook the instant you feel a bite. They hang around structure like pilings and jetties, and winter is prime time to target them when other species slow down.
Matagorda Bay isn't just another fishing spot – it's a slice of angler's paradise. The diversity of fish here is off the charts, and with Captain Shannon at the helm, you're in for a day of non-stop action. We're talking about the kind of fishing where you might land a slam (redfish, trout, and flounder) before lunch. And let's not forget the scenery – from birds diving for bait to the occasional dolphin showing up to check out your catch. It's the kind of day on the water that'll have you planning your next trip before you even get back to the dock.
Look, Matagorda Bay is calling, and those fish aren't going to catch themselves. Captain Shannon's got the local knowledge, the right gear, and the passion to make sure you have a killer day on the water. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler or just want to bend a rod, this trip's got you covered. Remember, we can take up to 5 anglers, so bring your crew and get ready for some serious inshore action. Just a heads up – deposits are non-refundable, so check the Trips & Rates page for all the details. Don't let another season slip by without getting in on this world-class inshore fishing. Book your spot now and get ready to make some memories (and maybe set a few personal bests) on Matagorda Bay!
Black Drum are hefty fighters, usually weighing 5-30 pounds but can reach up to 90. You'll find them in Matagorda's brackish waters, especially around oyster beds and muddy flats. They're bottom-feeders with strong jaws, crushing shellfish and crabs. Spring's the prime time to target them, as they school up for spawning. Anglers love Black Drum for their powerful runs and tasty meat, though stick to smaller ones under 15 pounds for the best eating. To hook one, use fresh crab or shrimp on a heavy bottom rig. My local tip: listen for their distinctive drumming sound - it'll lead you right to them. Just remember, patience is key when fishing for these tough-mouthed bruisers.
Redfish are the rockstars of Matagorda Bay, known for their copper color and distinctive tail spot. You'll find these bruisers in shallow water, often so shallow their backs break the surface. They love hanging around oyster reefs and grass flats in 1-4 feet of water. Most run 20-30 inches, but they can get much bigger. Fall's the prime time when they school up and go on feeding frenzies. Anglers can't get enough of their powerful runs and topwater strikes. They're also fantastic eating, with a mild, sweet flavor. To catch 'em, try gold spoons or live bait like mullet. Here's a local secret: look for their tails sticking up as they root for crabs in the shallows. Just be stealthy - these guys spook easy in skinny water.
Sea Trout, or Specks as we call 'em, are a staple in Matagorda Bay. These silvery, spotted fish usually run 14-24 inches and put up a great fight on light tackle. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They're opportunistic feeders, so live shrimp or artificial lures like topwater plugs work well. Cooler months are prime time, as they school up in deeper channels. Anglers love Specks for their aggressive strikes and excellent table fare - just don't overcook 'em, or they'll turn mushy. Here's a tip: when you find one, there's likely more nearby. These fish often hunt in groups, so work an area thoroughly once you get a bite. Remember, they've got soft mouths, so go easy on the hookset.
Sheepshead are the convicts of Matagorda Bay, sporting distinctive black and white stripes. These toothy critters typically run 1-8 pounds and love structure - you'll find them around docks, bridges, and jetties. Spring's when they gang up to spawn, making for some exciting fishing. Anglers get a kick out of their human-like chompers and their knack for stealing bait. They're also delicious on the plate, with sweet, white meat. To catch 'em, use small hooks and fresh bait like fiddler crabs or shrimp. Here's a local trick: scrape some barnacles off a piling to chum them up. Just be ready for a quick, sharp hookset when you feel that telltale nibble - these guys are masters at cleaning hooks.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 40
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250