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5-Person Inshore Fishing Trip | Galveston Bay
- Published Date: July 18, 2025
- Fishing
- Galveston Bay, Texas Gulf Coast, TX, United States
- $350 - $1,000 price range
- Updated Date: October 1, 2025
Summary
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Bay Catches
Reel in the Big Ones on Galveston Bay
Get ready to cast your line into the rich waters of Galveston Bay, where the fish are always biting and the stories get bigger with every trip. Whether you're an early bird or prefer to sleep in, this 5-person fishing adventure has you covered with morning and afternoon options. Capt. Justen knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's itching to put you on some of the best inshore action Texas has to offer.
What's the Scoop?
Picture this: You and your crew, max five folks, hitting the water at the crack of dawn or after lunch, depending on how you roll. We're talking about a solid four hours of pure fishing bliss in North or West Galveston Bay. Capt. Justen's got all the gear and bait ready to go, so you just need to show up with your fishing license and a good attitude. We're after the bay's finest – redfish, speckled trout, flounder, black drum, and sheepshead. It's like a Texas inshore slam waiting to happen!
Bait, Cast, and Reel
Alright, let's talk tactics. We're not just chunking bait and hoping for the best. Capt. Justen's got a game plan. Depending on the tide and time of day, we might be drifting live shrimp under popping corks for specks, or maybe sight-casting to tailing reds in the shallows. For those bottom-dwellers like flounder and drum, we'll set up with some fresh cut bait and wait for that telltale thump. And don't worry if you're new to this – the captain's got patience for days and he'll have you casting like a pro in no time.
Top Catches This Season
Galveston Bay's been on fire lately. Just last week, a group nailed their limit of speckled trout before noon, with a couple of bonus slot reds to boot. Another crew managed to boat a 28-inch gator trout that had everyone's jaws on the deck. And let's not forget about the guy who pulled in a flounder so big, we almost had to get a bigger net. These aren't just fish tales – this is the real deal, and you could be next!
Species You'll Want to Hook
Redfish: These copper-colored beauties are the crown jewels of Galveston Bay. Known for their bulldog strength and that signature spot on their tail, redfish will give you a run for your money. They love to cruise the shallows, especially on a flooding tide. When a school of reds starts tailing, it's like Christmas morning for anglers. Get ready for some screaming drags!
Speckled Trout: Don't let the name fool you – these guys are no lightweights. Speckled trout, or "specks" as we call 'em, are the bread and butter of bay fishing. They're quick, they're crafty, and when they school up, it's non-stop action. Look for them around oyster reefs and deep drops, especially early in the morning. There's nothing quite like the subtle 'tick' of a trout strike.
Flounder: Ah, the sneaky flatfish. Flounder might not look like much, but they're prized for their delicious white meat. These ambush predators love to hang out near structure, waiting for an easy meal. Catching them requires finesse and patience, but when you feel that distinctive 'thump', you know you're in for a treat. Fall is prime time for flounder as they start their migration to the Gulf.
Black Drum: The unsung heroes of inshore fishing. Black drum might not be the prettiest fish in the sea, but boy, can they pull. These bottom-feeders can grow to monster sizes, and even the smaller ones put up a great fight. They love crustaceans, so crab or shrimp baits are your best bet. Listen for their distinctive 'croaking' sound – it's like nature's own fish finder.
Sheepshead: With their human-like teeth and zebra stripes, sheepshead are the oddballs of the bay. Don't let their goofy looks fool you – these guys are tough to hook and even tougher to land. They hang around structure like pilings and jetties, munching on barnacles and crabs. Catching a big sheepshead is a badge of honor among local anglers.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Look, Galveston Bay isn't just another fishing spot – it's a angler's playground. One day you're battling bull reds in the surf, the next you're finessing specks around oyster reefs. The diversity here is off the charts. And let's not forget the scenery – watching the sun rise over the bay, pelicans diving for breakfast, maybe even spotting a pod of dolphins if you're lucky. It's not just about filling the cooler (though that's pretty sweet too) – it's about making memories and stories you'll be telling for years to come.
Time to Book Your Spot
Alright, folks, here's the deal. Capt. Justen's calendar fills up faster than a bait bucket at a fishing tournament. Whether you're looking to introduce the kids to their first redfish or you're aiming to best your personal record, this trip's got something for everyone. Remember, all the gear's provided, so all you need is your license and a good hat. Bring some snacks, maybe a camera for those brag-worthy shots, and get ready for some serious rod-bending action. The fish are waiting, the boat's gassed up, and Capt. Justen's raring to go. Don't let this chance slip away like a big one off the hook – book your spot now and let's make some waves!
Learn more about the species
Black Drum
Black Drum are hefty fighters, typically 5-30 pounds but can reach 90. They're known for those human-like teeth and powerful jaws that crush oysters and shellfish. You'll find them in brackish waters, especially around oyster beds and muddy flats. Spring's your best bet - they school up to spawn, making them easier to target. Anglers love 'em for the challenge and tasty meat, though stick to smaller ones under 15 pounds for better flavor. Live bait's the way to go - crabs are my go-to since other fish tend to leave 'em alone. If you're feeling fancy, try a 9-weight fly rod with a weighted black fly. Just remember to get that bait on the bottom and set the hook hard when you feel a nibble. These bait-stealers are pros at cleaning your hook without getting caught.
Redfish
Redfish, or Red Drum, are the rock stars of Galveston Bay. They're easy to spot with that black dot near the tail - sometimes more than one. Most are 20-30 inches, but they can grow over 40. You'll find them in super shallow water, often with their backs out of the water. They love mud bottoms, oyster reefs, and grass flats. Fall's the prime time when they're fattening up for winter. Anglers go crazy for the fight they put up and their excellent table fare. Here's a local secret: look for them tailing in shallow water early morning or late evening. Use a gold spoon or a soft plastic under a popping cork. If you see them cruising, try sight-casting with a topwater lure. Just be ready for an explosive strike. Remember, they've got those crushers in their throat, so use a stout leader. And when you hook one, hold on tight - these bulls can make some serious runs.
Sea Trout
Sea Trout, or Speckled Trout, are a favorite here in Galveston Bay. They're usually 14-24 inches, with a sleek, silvery body covered in spots. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They love to hang out in estuaries and around oyster reefs. Fall and winter are prime seasons when they school up in deeper channels. Anglers prize them for their fight and their mild, flaky meat. They're not the biggest fish in the bay, but they're fun to catch and great eating. Here's a local tip: try using topwater lures early in the morning or late evening. The "walk the dog" technique can be deadly. If that's not working, switch to a soft plastic under a popping cork. Remember, Sea Trout have soft mouths, so don't set the hook too hard. A gentle upward sweep is all you need. Keep your drag set light and enjoy the fight - these fish are known for their acrobatics.
Sheepshead
Sheepshead are the convicts of the bay, with their distinctive black and white stripes. They're usually 1-8 pounds, but can surprise you at 20. Look for them around any structure - docks, bridges, reefs - anywhere with barnacles. They're notorious bait thieves with those chompers that look like they've been lifted from a human. Spring's prime time when they school up to spawn. Anglers love the challenge of hooking these sneaky eaters, and they make great table fare if you can get past those tough scales. Here's a tip: use light tackle and set your bait right up against the structure. They won't venture far from cover. Fiddler crabs or shrimp are your best bet. When you feel that nibble, set the hook hard and fast. These guys will strip your bait clean if you give them half a chance. Just watch out for those fin spines when you're handling them - they'll make you regret not paying attention.
Summer Flounder
Summer Flounder, or Fluke, are masters of camouflage with both eyes on their left side. They average 15-20 inches but can hit 26 pounds. You'll find them on the seafloor in estuaries and offshore waters. They're ambush predators, so look for them around structure or sandy bottoms. Fall's prime time, especially September to November. Anglers love the challenge - these fish are sneaky and put up a good fight. Plus, they're delicious table fare. Here's a local trick: use a circle hook with live bait like minnows or mullet. Hook smaller bait through the eye, larger ones through the lips. Let it hit bottom, then slowly work it up in short hops. Flounder often grab the bait on the drop, so stay alert. A 7-foot casting rod with a sturdy line is ideal. Remember, they're called "chameleons of the sea" for a reason - patience and a sharp eye are key.
About the Sonrise Fishing Nautic Star
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 50
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 200
