Ready to kick off your day with some serious rod-bending action? Captain Doug's 5-hour sunrise trip is your ticket to Corpus Christi's prime fishing grounds. Whether you're looking to land your first redfish or you're after that trophy trout, this half-day adventure packs in all the excitement of the Texas coast. With years of local knowledge under his belt, Captain Doug knows exactly where the fish are biting and how to put you on them.
As the sun peeks over the horizon, you'll be right in the thick of it. This trip is all about maximizing your time on the water and getting you into the action fast. Captain Doug's boat is rigged and ready for inshore fishing, with all the gear you need to target the day's hottest bite. You'll cruise through Corpus Christi's scenic waterways, hitting productive spots that only the locals know. Expect to cast into grass flats, work along oyster reefs, or drift over deep holes – wherever the fish are hiding, that's where you'll be.
On this trip, you'll get hands-on with tried-and-true fishing methods that work wonders in these waters. Captain Doug's an expert at reading the water and will show you how to work your bait just right. You might be tossing soft plastics for trout, setting out live bait for redfish, or jigging for flounder. Whatever the technique, you'll pick up tips and tricks that'll up your fishing game. And don't worry if you're new to this – Captain Doug's got the patience of a saint and loves nothing more than seeing a newbie reel in their first big catch.
Anglers have been crushing it lately, with some impressive hauls coming aboard. The redfish bite has been on fire, with many folks landing their personal best. Trout fishing's been steady too, especially for those willing to work their lures slow and steady. While we can't guarantee what'll end up on your line, one thing's for sure – there's always a chance for that fish of a lifetime when you're out with Captain Doug.
Southern Flounder: These flatfish are the masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy bottom. They're ambush predators, lying in wait for unsuspecting bait to swim by. Flounder fishing heats up in the fall when they start their migration to the Gulf. Anglers love targeting them for their delicious, flaky white meat and the challenge of detecting their subtle bites.
Black Drum: Known locally as "big uglies" when they get large, black drum are hard-fighting fish that can really test your gear. They use their downturned mouths to root around the bottom for crabs and shrimp. Spring is prime time for black drum, when large schools gather to spawn. Catching a big one is like reeling in a compact car – it's a workout you won't forget!
Sea Trout: Also called speckled trout, these fish are a favorite among light tackle enthusiasts. They're known for their speckled pattern and their willingness to hit topwater lures, making for some exciting visual strikes. Sea trout are most active in the cooler months, and early mornings can be magical for topwater action. Landing a big "gator" trout is a badge of honor for any Corpus Christi angler.
Redfish: The rock stars of Texas inshore fishing, redfish (or red drum) are known for their copper color and black spot near the tail. They love to cruise the shallows, often revealing their location with their tails sticking out of the water as they feed – a sight that gets every angler's heart racing. Fall is fantastic for bull reds, but you can catch them year-round. The "slot" sized reds (20-28 inches) put up a great fight and are perfect for the dinner table.
It's not just about the fish – though that's a big part of it. Folks who fish with Captain Doug rave about the whole experience. You're not just a customer; you're part of the crew for the day. The early morning light on the water, the chance to see dolphins or sea birds diving for bait, and the pure joy of feeling that tug on your line – it all adds up to something special. Plus, Captain Doug's got a way of making every trip feel like you're out fishing with an old buddy, swapping stories and laughs along with fishing tips.
Look, the fish are out there waiting, and Captain Doug's ready to put you on them. This 5-hour sunrise trip is perfect for making the most of your morning, whether you're squeezing in some fishing on a family vacation or looking to scratch that angling itch before heading back to the office. With only room for two guests, you're guaranteed personalized attention and a chance to really hone your skills. Don't let another season slip by without experiencing some of the best inshore fishing Corpus Christi has to offer. Give Captain Doug a call, and get ready to make some fishing memories that'll have you grinning long after you're back on dry land. The early bird gets the fish – so what are you waiting for?
Black Drum are the big cousins of the popular redfish, and they're a blast to catch. These bruisers can weigh anywhere from 5 to 30 pounds, with some monsters hitting 90 pounds. You'll find them hanging around oyster beds, mudflats, and in brackish waters. They're not picky eaters, crushing shellfish with their powerful jaws. Spring's the best time to target them, especially during spawning when they school up. Anglers love Black Drum for their strong fight and the unique drumming sound they make. For the best eating, stick to the smaller ones under 15 pounds – the big ones can be tough. Here's a tip: use fresh crab for bait. It's their favorite snack and tends to stay on the hook better than other baits. When you feel that thump, get ready for a good tussle – these fish know how to use their weight.
Redfish are the rockstars of our local waters. These copper-colored beauties, with their distinctive tail spot, typically range from 20 to 30 inches in the shallows. You'll find them tailing in water so shallow their backs break the surface, especially around oyster reefs and grass flats. Fall is prime time when they school up, but they're catchable year-round. Anglers love 'em for their hard-fighting spirit and excellent table fare. They'll hit just about anything when they're feeding – from live bait to artificial lures. Here's a tip: look for their tails sticking up out of the water on calm mornings. It's a dead giveaway and makes for some exciting sight-casting. When you hook one, hold on tight – these fish can pull like a freight train, even in knee-deep water.
Sea Trout, also known as Speckled Trout, are a favorite among Corpus Christi anglers. These silvery fighters typically run 14 to 24 inches and put up a great fight on light tackle. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They love to hang around structure, so look for them near jetties or in deeper channels during winter. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but you can catch them year-round. Trout are popular for their mild, delicate flavor and the challenge they present – they're known for their soft mouths, so a gentle touch is key. Here's a local trick: try using topwater lures at dawn or dusk for some exciting surface strikes. These fish are aggressive feeders, so a well-placed lure can trigger some explosive action. Remember, they school up in cooler months, so if you find one, there's likely more nearby.
Southern Flounder are masters of disguise, blending perfectly with the sandy or muddy bottoms they call home. You'll find these flatfish in shallow coastal waters, often lurking near structures like jetties or in estuaries. They typically range from 15 to 18 inches, but can grow up to a hefty 33 inches. Spring and fall are prime times to target them, as they move to spawn. Anglers love Southern Flounder for their delicate, mild flavor and the challenge of spotting them. They're ambush predators, so patience is key. When fishing for them, try drifting or still fishing with live bait like mullet or shrimp. Here's a local tip: use a slow retrieve and keep your bait close to the bottom. These fish won't chase far, so you've got to put it right in front of them. Remember, they're left-eyed, so they're usually laying on their right side – something to keep in mind when you're trying to spot them in shallow water.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 47
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250