Ready to hit the water for some serious fishing action? Captain Doug's 5-hour mid-day run in the Laguna Madre is your ticket to hooking into some of Texas' most prized inshore species. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this private charter puts you right in the thick of Corpus Christi's legendary fishing grounds. With top-notch gear and Captain Doug's local know-how, you're in for a day of bent rods and screaming drags.
As you push off from the dock, the anticipation builds. The Laguna Madre stretches out before you, a paradise for anglers chasing redfish, trout, and more. Captain Doug knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll put you on the fish fast. This isn't some cookie-cutter tour – it's a hands-on fishing experience tailored to your skill level. Beginners will get the coaching they need to land their first big catch, while experienced anglers can swap stories and techniques with the captain. With room for two guests, it's the perfect setup for quality time with a fishing buddy or introducing a newbie to the sport.
On this trip, you'll get schooled in the art of inshore fishing. Depending on the conditions and what's biting, you might be sight-casting to tailing reds in the shallows or working soft plastics for trout along the grass lines. Captain Doug's got all the gear you need – from light tackle setups to the latest in artificial lures. He'll show you how to read the water, spot the signs of feeding fish, and present your bait for maximum impact. And when that line goes tight, you'll be glad you've got an expert on board to help you bring in the big one.
The Laguna Madre is home to some of the most sought-after inshore species in Texas. Let's break down what you might find on the end of your line:
Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are the crown jewels of Texas inshore fishing. Known for their powerful runs and distinctive spot near the tail, redfish put up a fight that'll have you grinning from ear to ear. They love to cruise the shallows, and when you spot one tailing, it's game on. Reds in the Laguna can range from slot-sized fish perfect for the dinner table to oversized bulls that'll test your tackle and your stamina.
Sea Trout: Also called speckled trout, these spotted predators are a blast to catch on light tackle. They're known for their soft mouths and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Captain Doug will show you how to work a topwater lure or soft plastic to entice these wary fish. The "gator" trout of the Laguna Madre are legendary, and while most catches will be in the 2-3 pound range, don't be surprised if a monster over 5 pounds decides to crash the party.
Black Drum: Often overlooked but never underappreciated, black drum are the bulldogs of the flats. These heavyweight fighters are suckers for natural baits like shrimp or crab. While the smaller ones make for excellent table fare, the big boys – some topping 30 pounds – are catch-and-release trophies that'll give you a workout. Listen for their distinctive "croaking" sound when you bring one boat-side.
Southern Flounder: Masters of camouflage, flounder are the ninjas of the Laguna Madre. These flatfish lie in wait on the bottom, ambushing prey that passes by. Catching them requires finesse and patience, but the reward is sweet – both in the fight and on the plate. Fall is prime time for flounder, as they start their annual migration to the Gulf.
It's not just about the fish – though that's a big part of it. The Laguna Madre offers a unique fishing experience that keeps anglers hooked. The crystal-clear waters let you spot fish from a distance, turning the hunt into a visual game. You might see pods of dolphins cruising by or ospreys diving for their lunch. And let's not forget the bragging rights – landing a trophy red or trout here puts you in an elite club of anglers who've conquered one of the best inshore fisheries in the country.
Look, the fish are out there waiting, and Captain Doug's got the inside track on where they're biting. This 5-hour mid-day run is your chance to get in on the action without taking up your whole day. It's perfect for sneaking away from work or fitting in some quality fishing time during a family vacation. With only two spots available, you'll get the personal attention needed to up your fishing game and land some serious catches. Don't let this opportunity slip away – the big one's calling your name, and Captain Doug's ready to put you on it. Book your trip now and get ready for a day on the water you won't forget. Trust me, once you've fished the Laguna Madre with a pro like Doug, you'll be planning your next trip before you even hit the dock.
Black Drum are the heavyweight cousins of redfish, often hanging out in the same spots. These bruisers can grow over 90 pounds, but the sweet spot for eating is 5 to 15 pounds. You'll find them in brackish waters, around oyster beds, and in coastal creeks. They love structure, so target pier pilings and bridge supports too. Spring is prime time when they school up to spawn. Black Drum put up a stubborn fight, using their size to their advantage. They're not the prettiest fish, but they make up for it in personality. These bottom-feeders have a weakness for crabs and shrimp. A local tip: use peeled shrimp on a circle hook with just enough weight to hold bottom. When you feel that telltale thump, let them run with it for a few seconds before tightening up. The meat is good eating when cooked right, especially from smaller fish.
Redfish are the rockstars of Texas flats fishing. These copper-colored beauties, with their signature tail spots, typically range from 20 to 30 inches in the bays. You'll find them prowling shallow flats, tailing in marshes, or hanging around oyster reefs. They're not picky eaters, hitting everything from live bait to artificial lures. Redfish put up a stubborn, bulldogging fight that'll test your gear. Fall is prime time when big schools move into the shallows. Sight-casting to tailing reds in skinny water is a heart-pounding experience. They're also fantastic table fare, with a mild, sweet flavor. Try working a gold spoon or soft plastic slowly along grass lines. A local tip: on calm days, look for 'nervous water' or subtle wakes to spot cruising reds. When you hook one, be ready for a powerful first run – these fish know how to use the current to their advantage.
Sea Trout, or Speckled Trout, are a favorite here in the Laguna Madre. These silver beauties usually run 14 to 24 inches, with some topping 5 pounds. Look for them around grass flats, channel edges, and oyster reefs. They're most active at dawn and dusk, especially on moving tides. Sea Trout are known for their soft mouths, so a gentle hookset is key. They put up a decent fight, often making acrobatic jumps. Anglers love targeting them for their aggressive strikes and tasty fillets. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but you can catch them year-round. Try working a soft plastic slowly along bottom or twitching a topwater lure at first light. Here's a local secret: on calm mornings, listen for their distinctive 'trout pops' on the surface to locate feeding fish. It's a blast sight-casting to them when conditions are right.
Southern Flounder are masters of camouflage, blending into sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow coastal waters. They typically range from 15 to 18 inches but can grow up to 33 inches. These flatfish are ambush predators, lying in wait for smaller fish and crustaceans. You'll find them in bays, estuaries, and near shore areas, especially around structure like oyster reefs. Fall is prime time as they migrate to spawn. Flounder are popular for their delicate, mild flavor and firm white meat. They can be tricky to hook, so patience is key. Try drifting or still fishing with live bait like mullet or shrimp. A local trick is to use a slow, dragging retrieve with your lure or bait - flounder often grab it on the pause. When you feel that distinctive thump, give them a moment before setting the hook. It's a unique and rewarding catch, perfect for anglers looking for a challenge.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 47
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250