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Expert-Guided Inshore Fishing at South Padre Island
- Published Date: July 16, 2025
- Fishing
- South Padre Island
- $400 - $750 price range
Summary
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Reels in Action
South Padre Inshore Action
Trophy Redfish at South Padre
South Padre Fishing Day
Morning Bites in SPI
South Padre Redfish on the Line
Big Catch, South Padre Style
Reeling in Reds at SPI
South Padre Fishing Fun
Hooked Up on South Padre
Gulf Waters, Great Catch
South Padre Inshore Action
Trophy Redfish at South Padre
South Padre Fishing Day
Morning Bites in SPI
South Padre Redfish on the Line
Big Catch, South Padre Style
Reeling in Reds at SPI
South Padre Fishing Fun
Hooked Up on South Padre
Gulf Waters, Great Catch
South Padre Inshore Action
Trophy Redfish at South Padre
South Padre Fishing Day
Morning Bites in SPI
South Padre Island's 9-Hour Inshore Fishing Dream
Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready to dive into some of the best fishing South Padre Island has to offer? Drift Water Charters has got you covered with our 9-hour inshore fishing trip that's perfect for everyone from first-timers to seasoned pros. We're talking about a full day on the water, targeting some of the coolest fish in the Laguna Madre and surrounding bays. Trust me, by the end of this trip, you'll be hooked (pun intended) on South Padre Island fishing!
What's the Scoop?
Picture this: You're out on the calm waters of South Padre, the sun's warming your face, and you've got a rod in your hand. Whether you're a total newbie or you've been fishing since you could walk, we've got you covered. Our experienced guides know these waters like the back of their hand, and we're all about making sure you have a blast while reeling in some awesome catches. We'll hit up all the local hotspots where the fish are biting, and with 9 full hours on the water, you've got plenty of time to perfect your technique and land that trophy fish you've been dreaming about.
Rods, Reels, and Hotspots
Alright, let's talk shop. We're not just drifting aimlessly here (though that's where our name comes from!). We use a mix of techniques to get you on the fish. Depending on the conditions and what's biting, we might do some drift fishing over grass flats, work the edges of channels, or even do some sight casting in the shallows. We'll set you up with light to medium tackle, perfect for inshore species. And don't worry if you're new to this - we'll show you the ropes on how to cast, set the hook, and reel in your catch like a pro. The best part? South Padre's waters are so rich with fish, you might find yourself catching different species on back-to-back casts!
Reel Talk from Happy Anglers
"Capt. Joaquin did a fantastic job! He was well prepared with gear and bait. He first covered safety with my family (my wife, our three daughters ages 14, 13 & 11) before we even got on the boat. That meant allot to us. He covered his game plan and we then headed out. Once at our first stop, capt. Joaquin coached us on the technique he wanted us to follow as we were drifting. Even though we didn't execute quite like a pro would, he was very patient with us. We quickly got on some red drum but my oldest daughter lost them before we could get them in the net. A while later, I reeled in a very nice unicorn of a fish in the way of a 30 & 1/4" trout. What a treat that was for me, my family and Captain Joaquin. After a lull of no fish, Captain Joaquin moved us to a different spot where we had no luck other than a few catfish but it kept my daughters engaged. At our 3rd stop, Captain Joaquin put us on some great fish. Within minutes of the first two lines being in the water my 13yo daughter hooked a nice red drum which is exactly what Captain Joaquin said he hoped we caught running. Soon after my wife also reeled in a nice 28" red. Minutes later our youngest reeled in a small red but she was happy! Minutes later my 14yo daughter reeled in her own 26" red and while she was reeling hers in our 13yo had hooked another red, this time an oversized 29". What I truly enjoyed about this tussle was how Captain Joaquin encouraged my 13yo when she kept saying that she couldn't do it! He kept encouraging her and she reeled him in all on her own with no one's help. Minutes later she reeled in her 3rd red. Our 11yo added a 21" trout before it was all said and done. Captain Joaquin was great and professional with our daughters, never getting or showing any frustration in his tone of voice or body language. He is a class act and knows what he is doing. What a great half day of fishing!" - Art
Fish on the Menu
Let's talk about what's swimming around out there. South Padre Island is home to some seriously awesome inshore species, and on this trip, we're targeting some real beauties. Here's the lowdown on what you might be reeling in:
Southern Flounder: These flat fish are masters of camouflage and a blast to catch. They're known for their delicious white meat and can grow up to 25 inches long. Spring and fall are prime times for flounder, especially during their migrations. When you hook one, get ready for some hard-fighting action close to the bottom.
Grey Snapper: Also known as mangrove snapper, these guys are smart and quick. They love structure and put up a great fight for their size. You can find them year-round, but summer is when they really show up in numbers. Their firm, white flesh makes them a favorite for the dinner table.
Black Drum: These cousins of the redfish can grow to massive sizes, but the smaller ones in the 5-30 pound range are what we usually target. They're known for their distinctive chin barbels and the "drumming" sound they make. Fall through spring is prime time for black drum, and they're a favorite for anglers looking for a good pull.
Sea Trout: Speckled trout are a staple of inshore fishing here. They're known for their spotted pattern and their willingness to hit artificial lures. Spring and fall are fantastic for trout fishing, but you can catch them year-round. Landing a big "gator" trout over 25 inches is a real trophy!
Redfish: Last but definitely not least, the redfish. These copper-colored beauties are probably the most sought-after inshore species in Texas. They're known for their characteristic spot near the tail and their hard-fighting nature. Fall is the peak season when big schools of bull reds come in to spawn, but you can catch them all year. Trust me, when a big red takes off on a run, you'll know why anglers get so excited about them!
Time to Wet a Line!
Alright, folks, if you're not itching to get out on the water by now, check your pulse! Our 9-hour inshore trip with Drift Water Charters is the real deal. We're talking about a full day of non-stop action, targeting some of the coolest fish South Padre has to offer. Whether you're looking to bend a rod, learn some new techniques, or just enjoy a day on the beautiful Texas coast, we've got you covered. Our experienced guides will make sure you have a safe, fun, and fish-filled day that you'll be talking about for years to come. So what are you waiting for? Grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's go fishing! Book your spot now, and get ready to make some memories (and maybe catch dinner while you're at it). See you on the water!
Customer Review
Family Fish Frenzy
Art Rodriguez
May 10, 2023
Learn more about the species
Black Drum
Black Drum are the big, stubborn cousins of the popular Redfish. They typically weigh between 5 and 30 pounds, but can grow up to a whopping 90 pounds. You'll find them in brackish waters, estuaries, and around oyster beds. They love muddy flats and shallow waters, but can also hang out in depths up to 100 feet. Spring's the prime time for Black Drum fishing, as they school up for spawning. Anglers enjoy the fight these big boys put up, and smaller ones (under 15 pounds) make for great eating. They're bottom feeders, so live bait like crabs or clams works best. Here's a local tip: use a crab for bait - it's less likely to get stolen by catfish or other bait thieves. And don't forget, these guys make a drumming sound, so keep your ears open!
Grey Snapper
Grey Snapper, or Mangrove Snapper, are sneaky little fighters that'll keep you on your toes. These guys usually run 10-14 inches and 1-2 pounds inshore, but can bulk up to 20 pounds in open water. You'll find them hanging around structures like docks, piers, and mangrove roots in warm, shallow waters. They're most active at night, so early morning or evening fishing trips can be super productive. Anglers love Grey Snapper for their tasty white meat and the challenge they present - they're quick and can be picky eaters. Live shrimp is your best bet for bait, but here's a local tip: thread your hook through the shrimp's tail instead of its head. This keeps it alive longer and more attractive to those sharp-eyed snappers. Let your bait sink to the bottom and be patient - these opportunistic feeders will strike when the moment's right.
Redfish
Redfish, or Red Drum, are the rockstars of inshore fishing. These copper-colored beauties, with their distinctive black tail spot, typically range from 20 to 40 inches. You'll find them in super shallow water, often tailing in 1 to 4 feet deep flats, around oyster reefs, and in lagoons. They love structure, so look for them near old piers and jetties too. Fall's prime time for big bulls, but you can catch reds year-round. Anglers love 'em for their hard-fighting spirit and excellent table fare. They'll hit a variety of lures, from topwater plugs to soft plastics. Here's a local tip: on calm days, cruise the flats and look for their copper backs breaking the surface. Cast ahead of them and hang on tight - when a red hits, it hits hard!
Sea Trout
Sea Trout, also known as Speckled Trout, are a favorite among inshore anglers. These silvery, spotted fish typically run 14 to 24 inches and weigh 1 to 5 pounds. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They're ambush predators, so look for them around structures and drop-offs. Winter's a great time to target big schools in deeper waters. Anglers love Sea Trout for their delicate, mild flavor and the fun fight they put up. They're suckers for artificial lures, especially topwater plugs and jigs. Here's a local tip: try slow-trolling at idle speed along grass flats if you're having trouble locating them. And remember, Sea Trout have soft mouths, so set the hook gently to avoid tearing it.
Southern Flounder
Southern Flounder are masters of disguise, blending perfectly with the sandy or muddy bottoms they call home. These flatfish typically range from 15 to 18 inches long, with some monsters hitting 33 inches. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. They're ambush predators, lying in wait to snatch up passing prey. Fall's your best bet for catching these tasty fish, as they move to deeper waters to spawn. Anglers love targeting flounder for their delicious, flaky white meat and the challenge they present. To up your chances, try drift fishing with live bait like mullet or shrimp. A local trick: when you feel a bite, give it a few seconds before setting the hook. Flounder often grab their prey sideways before repositioning it to swallow head-first.
About the Shallow Master Flats boat
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: SMS
Maximum Cruising Speed: 33
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 200
Capt. Joaquin did a fantastic job! He was well prepared with gear and bait. He first covered safety with my family (my wife, our three daughters ages 14, 13 & 11) before we even got on the boat. That meant allot to us. He covered his game plan and we then headed out. Once at our first stop, capt. Joaquin coached us on the technique he wanted us to follow as we were drifting. Even though we didn't execute quite like a pro would, he was very patient with us. We quickly got on some red drum but my oldest daughter lost them before we could get them in the net. A while later, I reeled in a very nice unicorn of a fish in the way of a 30 & 1/4" trout. What a treat that was for me, my family and Captain Joaquin. After a lull of no fish, Captain Joaquin moved us to a different spot where we had no luck other than a few catfish but it kept my daughters engaged. At our 3rd stop, Captain Joaquin put us on some great fish. Within minutes of the first two lines being in the water my 13yo daughter hooked a nice red drum which is exactly what Captain Joaquin said he hoped we caught running. Soon after my wife also reeled in a nice 28" red. Minutes later our youngest reeled in a small red but she was happy! Minutes later my 14yo daughter reeled in her own 26" red and while she was reeling hers in our 13yo had hooked another red, this time an oversized 29". What I truly enjoyed about this tussle was how Captain Joaquin encouraged my 13yo when she kept saying that she couldn't do it! He kept encouraging her and she reeled him in all on her own with no one's help. Minutes later she reeled in her 3rd red. Our 11yo added a 21" trout before it was all said and done. Captain Joaquin was great and professional with our daughters, never getting or showing any frustration in his tone of voice or body language. He is a class act and knows what he is doing. What a great half day of fishing! This was our daughters first time salt water fishing and also fishing from a boat and they are so ready to do it again and we give thanks to Captain Joaquin for that! My wife and I would definitely recommend him and we plan on returning and booking again with Captain Joaquin at Drift Water Charters!