Matagorda Bay, Texas, is a fishing fanatic's dream come true. With several Matagorda fishing charters and fishing guides to choose from, both beginner fishermen and seasoned anglers can have a chance to reel in the big ones during a trip to Matagorda Bay.
Reeling in the Top Matagorda Fishing Charters & Fishing Guides
Matagorda Bay, Texas, is a fishing fanatic's dream come true. With several Matagorda fishing charters and fishing guides to choose from, both beginner fishermen and seasoned anglers can have a chance to reel in the big ones during a trip to Matagorda Bay.
If you're considering booking a fishing charter or a guide in Matagorda Bay, keep reading to understand the costs of local fishing charters and guides, the best fishing companies in Palacios and beyond, and what you can expect to catch during a fishing trip to Matagorda Bay.
How to Get Your Texas Fishing License
Most Matagorda fishing guides and charters require you to secure a fishing license from the Texas Wildlife Department before planning a fishing trip. Texas requires permits for anglers over the age of 17. You can buy your license online from the Texas Wildlife Department or at a local retailer.
Cost of Matagorda Fishing Charters & Guides
Private Fishing Guides
Matagorda Bay fishing guides come in various packages to suit different budgets and needs. On average, you can plan to pay around $450 to $750 for a half-day trip (about 4-5 hours). Full-day trips (7-9 hours) range from $650 to $1,200. Prices range depending on the size of the boat, the number of people in the party, and the type of fishing you're interested in, such as inshore or offshore fishing.
Private Fishing Charters
Private fishing charters in Matagorda Bay typically cost more than guides but are great for those looking for a personalized experience. These trips range from $800 to $2,000, depending on the duration and extra amenities provided. For example, some Matagorda offshore fishing charters include bait, tackle, and cleaning of your catch at the base price, while others may charge extra for these services.
Common Catches in Matagorda Bay
Those who love fishing appreciate the abundant fish species in Matagorda Bay, from speckled trout to Spanish mackerel. Here are some of the most frequent catches in Matagorda Bay:
Speckled Trout
The beloved speckled trout (also called “specks”) are a staple in Matagorda. They’re especially plentiful in and around Palacios and East Matagorda Bay (especially during the winter).
Redfish
Redfish (also called red drum) are known for their “rosy” copper color and are a favorite among local anglers. Texas doesn't have a closed season for redfish, so you can expect them to pop up in Matagorda Bay at all times of the year. However, redfish are most plentiful in the fall.
Flounder
Flounder are abundant in Matagorda Bay, particularly in the fall when they migrate through the Texas Gulf Coast. These fish gather near anything with a solid structure, such as docks, piers, sandbars, and jetties. Flounder migrate to the Texas Gulf Coast from October to December.
Black Drum
Black drums are frequently caught in the same spots as redfish and trout. Black drums get pretty large and are among the most plentiful species on the Texas Gulf Coast. You'll get good at spotting them quickly! During high season (from February to March), reeling in a 30- to 40-pound fish is common.
Sheepshead
Sheepshead are known for their unique appearance, with dark vertical stripes and human-like teeth. The high season for sheepshead in Texas is January to February and November to December.
Tarpon
Tarpon (also known as "silver king”) is one of the most prized catches for experienced anglers in Matagorda Bay. Tarpons are known for their acrobatic leaps and powerful pulls. Tarpon season in Matagorda typically lasts from late spring to early fall.
Spanish Mackerel
Spanish mackerel are a common catch in Matagorda Bay for offshore fishermen. They're speedy swimmers and put up a great fight, making them a favorite for deep-sea anglers. The high season for this offshore catch generally lands between April and July, and there is no closed season.
Top Five Matagorda, Texas, Fishing Guides & Charters
Shallowrun Guide Service
With a boatload of fishing experience, Captain Chad of Shallowrun Guide Service loves what he does, and you'll find him fishing in Matagorda Bay every day of the week. Shallowrun Guide Service uses a 24' Transport SVT with a maximum cruising speed of 45 knots. The boat's sleek design allows room for four passengers, including children. You can fish in West Matagorda Bay and East Matagorda Bay, and Captain Chad supplies top-of-the-line gear, but fly fishermen are also welcome to bring their equipment.
Over Under Outfitters
Over Under Outfitters has been exploring the waters in Matagorda Bay for several years and offers tons of experience. This fishing charter allows fishermen to cast lines from a 24' Bay boat with space for five passengers. Rods, reels, tackle, and lures are included, and kids are welcome to join.
Redfish Lake Guide Service
Redfish Lake Guide Service specializes in fishing charters across Matagorda Bay with Captain Mark Wakefield. This service offers inshore and nearshore options and is suitable for all experience levels. Captain Mark will provide all the necessary equipment, including live and artificial bait and topwater lures. He uses a 24' Tran Cat explicitly built for local fishing in Matagorda Bay.
Fin Tastic Coastal Charters
Fin Tastic Coastal Charters is operated by Captain Stan Sloan, who has been guiding fishing trips professionally since 2006. Captain Sloan has won several fishing tournaments, including the Halls Bayou Classic, where he has won first place seven times. The charter vessel is a 24' Tran Sport Cat Boat center console with a maximum cruising speed of 40 knots. The helpful crew will provide the necessary fishing gear, lures, and cleaning and filleting services.
Captain Shannon's Charters
Captain Shannon's Charters specializes in light tackle, heavy tackle, and fly fishing in Matagorda Bay. You'll sail across Matagorda Bay on a 24' Haynie that fits up to five people with Captain Zack Shannon, an experienced fisherman. The cost of the charter includes all the rods, reels, and tackle you'll need for an exciting day of fishing in Palacios and beyond.
Turn Every Day Into a Fishing Adventure After Staking Claim to a Beachside Lot in Palacios, TX
Whether you’re an experienced fisherman looking for an adventurous offshore fishing charter or a family searching for a kid-friendly fishing adventure in Matagorda Bay, you’ll find plenty of options for fishing charters and guides in Palacios and around Matagorda Bay.
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