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World-Class Inshore Fishing in South Padre Island
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- South Padre Island
- $350 - $900 price range
- Updated Date: September 20, 2025
Summary
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Reelin' Them In
Big fish, bigger smiles!"
Red Drum Catch of the day!
Red Drum Haul!
Red Drum: A prized catch with vibrant coloring.
South Padre Island never disappoints on Redfish
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Fishing fun with friends!
One angler, big catch ahead!
One epic boat adventure!
Big fish, bigger smiles!"
Red Drum Catch of the day!
Red Drum Haul!
Red Drum: A prized catch with vibrant coloring.
South Padre Island never disappoints on Redfish
null
null
Fishing fun with friends!
One angler, big catch ahead!
One epic boat adventure!
Big fish, bigger smiles!"
Red Drum Catch of the day!
Red Drum Haul!
Red Drum: A prized catch with vibrant coloring.
Reel in the Big One: Half-Day SPI Fishing Fun
Hey there, angler! Ready to wet a line in the fish-rich waters of South Padre Island and Port Isabel? Old Salt Charters has got you covered with our half-day guided fishing trips that'll have you hooked from the get-go. We're talking about some serious inshore action where Redfish, Black Drum, Trout, and Flounder are just waiting to test your skills. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time holding a rod, we've got the know-how to put you on the fish. So grab your shades and let's hit the bay for some top-notch Texas fishing!
What to Expect on the Water
Our half-day trips are the perfect slice of fishing heaven. We'll cruise out into the bay, where the fish are always biting and the scenery's not too shabby either. You'll be armed with top-quality gear - we're talking rods, reels, and all the tackle you need to land the big one. And don't worry about going thirsty or hungry; we've got water, Gatorade, and snacks to keep you fueled up. Just remember to bring your Texas Parks and Wildlife Fishing License with a Saltwater stamp, and you're good to go. Oh, and don't forget those polarized sunnies - they're not just for looking cool, they'll help you spot those fish like a pro!
Tactics for Trophies
Alright, let's talk strategy. In these parts, we're all about light tackle and live bait fishing. We'll be working the flats, channels, and grass beds where the fish love to hang out. Might throw some soft plastics or topwater lures if the bite is right. And here's a pro tip: when you're after those big reds or black drum, keep an eye out for their tails sticking up out of the water. That's your cue to make the perfect cast. We'll show you how to work your bait, set the hook, and reel 'em in like a champ. It's all about finesse and patience - and trust me, when that line goes tight, you'll be grinning from ear to ear.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Let's break down some of the stars of our inshore show. First up, the mighty Redfish. These copper-colored beauties can grow up to 40 inches and put up a fight that'll have your arms burning. They love to cruise the shallows, and when they hit, hold on tight! Best time to target them? Fall is prime time, but they're around all year.
Next, we've got the Black Drum. These guys are like the bulldogs of the bay - stocky, strong, and stubborn. They can grow over 30 pounds and when they decide to take your bait, it's like hooking a freight train. Spring is when they really get active, but you can catch them year-round.
Don't overlook the Southern Flounder. These flat fish might not look like much, but they're a blast to catch and even better on the dinner table. They're masters of camouflage, blending right into the sandy bottom. Fall is the prime time to target these tasty flatfish as they make their way to the Gulf.
Speckled Trout, or Sea Trout as we call 'em, are a favorite among light tackle enthusiasts. They're quick, they're feisty, and they've got a mouth full of teeth that'll make you think twice about lipping them. Summer and fall are great for specks, but you can catch them year-round if you know where to look.
The Sheepshead might look a bit goofy with those human-like teeth, but don't let that fool you. These striped battlers are tough fighters and can be tricky to hook. They love structure, so we'll target them around pilings and jetties. Winter and early spring is when they really shine.
Last but not least, the Lane Snapper. These tasty little fellas might not be the biggest fish in the sea, but what they lack in size, they make up for in flavor. They hang out near reefs and wrecks, and when you find a school, it's non-stop action. Summer is prime time for Lanes, but you can catch them year-round in our warm Gulf waters.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Folks, I've been guiding these waters for years, and let me tell you, there's something special about fishing South Padre Island and Port Isabel. Maybe it's the way the sun glints off the water as we're cruising to our spot. Or that heart-pounding moment when a big red takes your bait. Could be the satisfaction of reeling in your personal best, or just the laid-back vibe of being out on the water with good company. Whatever it is, it keeps our customers coming back for more. And the best part? Every trip is different. You never know what you might catch or what memories you'll make. That's the beauty of fishing - it's always an adventure.
Time to Book Your Spot
So there you have it, folks. A half-day with Old Salt Charters is your ticket to some of the best inshore fishing Texas has to offer. We've got the knowledge, we've got the gear, and we've got the fish. All we need is you! Whether you're looking to bend a rod, fill a cooler, or just enjoy a day on the water, we've got you covered. Remember, the fish are always biting, but our spots fill up fast. So what are you waiting for? Give us a call, book your trip, and let's make some fishing memories that'll last a lifetime. Just don't forget - the deposit's non-refundable, but trust me, once you're out there with a bent rod and a screaming reel, you'll know it was worth every penny. See you on the water!
Learn more about the species
Black Drum
Black Drum are the big cousins of redfish, and boy can they get huge - we're talking up to 90 pounds! Most you'll catch are in the 5-30 pound range though. Look for them in shallow, brackish waters around oyster beds and mudflats. They love crunching on shellfish with their powerful jaws and pharyngeal teeth. Spring's the best time to target them when they school up to spawn. Listen for their distinctive drumming sound - that's how they got their name. Anglers dig Black Drum for their strong fight and good eating, especially the smaller ones under 15 pounds. For bait, fresh crab is hard to beat. Here's a local trick: if you're having trouble finding them, try chumming with crushed oysters or clams. That'll often bring them in and get them feeding. Just be ready for a tug-of-war when you hook into a big one!
Lane Snapper
Lane Snapper are a popular catch around here, typically running 10-14 inches long. You'll find them hanging around coral reefs and sandy areas with vegetation in 70-230 feet of water. They're most active March through September during spawning season. Anglers love targeting Lane Snapper for their aggressive fight and excellent table fare. Their pink-red bodies with yellow-tipped fins make for a beautiful catch too. To land one, try fishing near the bottom with live bait like shrimp or small fish. These guys can be bait stealers, so set the hook quickly when you feel a bite. Lane Snapper often show up as a bonus catch when fishing for other species, earning them the nickname "dessert fish". Keep an eye out for their distinctive silver and pink striped pattern - it's a dead giveaway you've hooked into a Lane Snapper.
Redfish
Redfish, also known as Red Drum, are one of our most popular gamefish. They typically run 28-33 inches long when mature, but can grow much bigger. You'll find them in shallow waters, often so shallow their backs are exposed. They love hanging around oyster reefs, seagrass beds, and mudflats. Fall's a great time to target them as they move to spawn. Anglers love Redfish for their strong fights and excellent eating quality. Plus, that distinctive black spot near their tail makes for a cool photo. To catch one, try sight-fishing in clear shallows or using topwater lures early in the morning. Here's a local tip: look for "tailing" Redfish in very shallow water - their tails will stick up as they root for food on the bottom. It's an exciting way to spot and target these hard-fighting fish.
Sea Trout
Sea Trout, also called Speckled Trout, are a favorite target for many anglers here. They typically run 14-24 inches long and weigh 1-5 pounds. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They're most active in cooler months when they school up in deeper channels. Anglers love Sea Trout for their aggressive strikes and delicate, flaky meat. They put up a good fight on light tackle too. To catch them, try using artificial lures like jerk baits or topwater plugs. Live shrimp are hard to beat for bait. Here's a local tip: if you're having trouble finding them, try drifting grass flats at dawn or dusk. Sea Trout often feed actively during these low light periods. Just remember not to overcook them - their soft meat can get mushy if you're not careful.
Sheepshead
Sheepshead are some of the oddest-looking fish you'll catch around here, with their human-like teeth and black and white stripes. They typically run 1-8 pounds and 14-20 inches long. You'll find them hanging around structures like docks, bridges, and reefs where they love to munch on barnacles and crabs. Spring's the best time to target them when they gather to spawn. Anglers love Sheepshead for their fight and their tasty white meat, though cleaning them can be a chore with their tough scales. To catch one, use small hooks and natural baits like fiddler crabs or shrimp. Here's a local tip: when you feel a bite, wait a second before setting the hook. These guys are notorious bait stealers and will try to nibble your bait off the hook. A little patience goes a long way in landing more Sheepshead.
Southern Flounder
Southern Flounder are odd-looking flatfish that'll give you a run for your money. They typically range from 15-18 inches long, but can grow up to a whopping 33 inches. You'll find them lurking on sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow coastal waters, bays and estuaries. These ambush predators are masters of camouflage, blending in with the bottom to surprise their prey. Fall is prime time for flounder fishing as they move to deeper waters to spawn. Anglers love 'em for their delicate, mild-flavored meat. To catch one, try drifting or still fishing near the bottom with live bait like mullet or shrimp. Here's a local tip: when you feel a bite, wait a few seconds before setting the hook. Flounder often grab prey and reposition it before swallowing. Be patient and you'll up your odds of landing one of these tasty flatfish.
About the Shallow Stalker
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 40
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 150
