World-Class Inshore Fishing in South Padre Island

Published Date: July 17, 2025
Fishing

South Padre Island
$350 - $900 price range

Summary

Ready for some Texas coastal fishing action? Join Old Salt Charters for a 5 to 9 hour private trip in the bays around South Padre Island and Port Isabel. We'll get you set up with everything you need - rods, reels, tackle, and even some drinks and snacks. Our experienced crew knows these waters like the back of their hand, so you'll be in prime spots to land redfish, black drum, trout, and flounder. Don't worry if you're new to fishing - we welcome anglers of all skill levels and will show you the ropes. Just remember to grab your Texas fishing license with a saltwater stamp before you come. Oh, and pack some polarized sunglasses and sunscreen - that Texas sun can be strong out on the water! With a max of 2 guests, you'll get plenty of personal attention from our guides. It's a great way to spend a day soaking up the coastal vibes and hopefully reeling in some impressive catches.

World-Class Inshore Fishing in South Padre Island

Coastal Catches

A lone angler enjoying a day of fishing at Port Isabel

South Padre Island never disappoints on Redfish

null

11 people enjoying a fishing trip in Port Isabel

null

group of 11 people fishing in port isabel

Fishing fun with friends!

Reel in the Action: SPI Inshore Fishing

Get ready to wet a line in the rich waters of South Padre Island and Port Isabel! Our 5 to 9-hour private inshore fishing trip with Old Salt Charters is your ticket to some of the best angling Texas has to offer. Whether you're looking to bend a rod on some hard-fighting redfish or outsmart a crafty flounder, we've got you covered. Our seasoned crew knows these waters like the back of their hand and we're itching to put you on the fish. So grab your shades and let's hit the bay for a day you won't soon forget!

What to Expect on the Water

As soon as we push off from the dock, you'll feel the excitement building. We'll cruise through the calm, protected waters of the Laguna Madre, keeping an eye out for tailing reds or birds working over schools of trout. Our skiffs are perfect for sneaking into those skinny water hotspots where the big ones lurk. You'll have a chance to try different techniques, from sight-casting to drifting live bait. And don't worry if you're new to this – we'll show you the ropes and have you casting like a pro in no time. With a max of two anglers, you'll get plenty of one-on-one time with your guide to hone your skills.

Gearing Up for Success

Leave the tackle box at home, because we've got you covered with top-notch gear. We'll set you up with quality rods and reels perfectly matched to the species we're after. Our tackle boxes are stocked with a variety of lures and live bait options to give you the best shot at a monster catch. We'll rig you up with everything from popping corks for specks to bottom rigs for those tasty black drum. And don't forget your camera – you'll want proof when you land that trophy redfish!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Let's talk about what's swimming in these waters. Redfish are the stars of the show here, known for their powerful runs and distinctive spot on the tail. These copper-colored beauties can range from slot-sized to bull reds over 40 inches. They love to cruise the flats and will crush a well-placed lure or bait.

Speckled trout, or "specks" as we call 'em, are another favorite. These silver-sided predators with their speckled backs are a blast on light tackle. They school up and can provide non-stop action when you find them. Early mornings and late evenings are prime time for topwater action with these guys.

Black drum might not win any beauty contests, but they sure put up a good fight. These bottom-feeders can grow to bull-sized proportions and will test your drag system. They're suckers for fresh shrimp or crab and make for some excellent table fare.

Don't overlook the southern flounder – these flatfish are masters of camouflage and a real treat to catch. They're ambush predators that lie in wait on the bottom, ready to pounce on an unsuspecting baitfish. Fall is the best time to target these tasty fish as they make their run to the Gulf.

Top Catches This Season

The fishing calendar in South Padre is always full, but some seasons really shine. Spring is when the big sow trout come out to play, often hanging around grass beds and drop-offs. Summer heats up with schools of redfish tailing on the flats during high tides. Fall brings the flounder run, where you can target these flatfish as they move towards the passes. And don't count out winter – some of the biggest trout of the year are caught when the water cools down. No matter when you visit, we'll put you on the fish that are biting best.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

It's not just about the fish – though they're a big part of it. The Laguna Madre is a special place, with its crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife. You might spot dolphins playing in the bay, or see ospreys diving for their own catch. The sunrises here are something else, painting the sky in colors you have to see to believe. And there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of reeling in a fish you've been stalking all morning. Our guests leave with more than just full coolers – they take home stories and memories that last a lifetime.

Time to Book Your Spot

So what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, and we've got a spot on the boat with your name on it. Whether you're looking to fill the freezer or just want to experience the thrill of the catch, our 5 to 9-hour private inshore trip is the way to go. We'll take care of all the details – from licenses to snacks – so you can focus on the important stuff, like deciding which lure to throw next. Just remember to bring your Texas Parks and Wildlife Fishing License with a Saltwater stamp, and we'll handle the rest. Give us a call or book online today, and let's make some fishing memories on the beautiful waters of South Padre Island and Port Isabel. Tight lines, y'all!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Spotted seatrout, or "specks" as we call 'em, are a staple of inshore fishing here. Most run 14-20 inches and 1-3 pounds, but gator trout over 5 pounds aren't uncommon. Look for them around grass flats, oyster bars, and deeper holes in the bays. These guys are ambush predators. They'll sit and wait for bait to come by, then attack. That's why topwater lures can be so effective, especially early morning or late evening. Nothing beats seeing a big trout blow up on a surface plug! Trout fishing is good year-round, but fall and winter are prime as they school up in deeper water. Live shrimp under a popping cork is deadly, but artificials like soft plastics work great too. Pro tip: when you find one trout, there's usually more nearby. Fan cast the area thoroughly before moving on.

Lane Snapper

Redfish are one of our most popular targets here in South Padre. These copper-colored beauties typically run 20-30 inches but can grow over 40 inches in the right conditions. You'll find them cruising the shallows - we're talking 1-4 feet of water. They love hanging around oyster beds, grass flats, and mangroves. Fall is prime time as they school up to spawn. That's when you can really get into some big bulls. Redfish put up a great fight and they're delicious on the dinner table too. Mild, flaky meat that's perfect for grilling or blackening. When we're sight-fishing for reds, I like to use gold spoons or soft plastics that mimic shrimp or small baitfish. The key is a slow, steady retrieve - these guys aren't usually chasing down fast-moving lures. Oh, and keep an eye out for their signature tail waving above the surface as they root around for crabs and shrimp. That's your cue to make a cast!

Redfish

Sea Trout

Southern flounder are ambush predators that lie in wait on the bottom. They're masters of camouflage, blending in with sand and mud. Most run 14-20 inches and 1-5 pounds. Look for them around drop-offs, creek mouths, and muddy bottoms. Fall is the best time to target flounder as they migrate to spawn. That's when you can catch the real doormats. They prefer live bait like finger mullet or mud minnows, but will hit soft plastics too. The key is a slow presentation right on the bottom. Flounder have a unique sideways strike, so give them a second to turn the bait before setting the hook. These flatfish are prized for their mild, flaky meat. One local trick: use a fish-finder rig with a live bait and slowly drag it along the bottom. When you feel weight, drop your rod tip and give the flounder time to take it fully.

Sheepshead

Sheepshead are one of the trickier fish to catch, but man are they worth it. These striped convict-looking critters average 1-8 pounds. You'll find them around any kind of structure - pier pilings, jetties, rock piles. They love to eat barnacles and crustaceans off hard surfaces. What makes sheepshead challenging is their nibbling bite. They'll pick at your bait without fully committing. You've got to feel for that subtle take and set the hook fast. Fresh shrimp, fiddler crabs, or even barnacles make great bait. Winter and early spring are peak seasons as they move inshore to spawn. That's when you can really load up on some big ones. Sheepshead have a mild, sweet flavor that's excellent table fare. Just be careful of those sharp dorsal spines when you're cleaning them!

Southern Flounder

Black drum are the redfish's big, ugly cousins. They're not much to look at, but man can they pull! Average size is 5-30 pounds, but the real monsters can top 90 pounds. You'll find them in the same areas as reds - shallow bays, around oyster reefs, and near pier pilings. Spring is spawning time, so that's when the big schools move in. Listen for their distinctive croaking sound - that's how they communicate. Black drum are bottom feeders with strong, crushing teeth. They love crustaceans, so fresh crab or shrimp on a bottom rig is your best bet. These guys make great table fare when they're smaller, say under 15 pounds. The bigger ones get a bit tough and wormy. One local trick: use a piece of fresh blue crab for bait. Thread it on the hook, leaving part of the shell exposed. The crunching sound as they crush it drives other drum crazy!

About the Shallow Stalker

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5

Manufacturer Name: Suzuki

Maximum Cruising Speed: 40

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 150

Hop aboard our trusty fishing vessel for a laid-back day on the water around South Padre Island and Port Isabel. Our seasoned crew knows all the prime spots to reel in redfish, black drum, trout, and flounder in the bay. Whether you're a pro angler or just getting your feet wet, we'll make sure you have a great time casting lines and soaking up the Texas sun. We've got all the gear you need, plus drinks and snacks to keep you fueled up. Just bring your fishing license, sunnies, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate duds. With room for two guests, it's perfect for a relaxed outing with a buddy or loved one. Book your 5-9 hour trip now and get ready to swap some fish tales!

Sitemap