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Top-Rated Topwater Trip | Sonrise Fishing

  • Published Date: July 17, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Galveston Bay, Texas Gulf Coast, TX, United States
  • $350 - $1,000 price range
  • Updated Date: October 1, 2025

Summary

Ready for an action-packed day on the water? This Topwater Trip with Sonrise Fishing is all about mastering the art of surface lures. You'll learn how to work topwater baits that make fish erupt from below, creating explosive strikes right before your eyes. It's a heart-pounding way to fish that often attracts bigger, quality catches – maybe even your new personal best! While the focus is on topwater techniques, you'll have the chance to try other artificial lures too. Perfect for anglers looking to expand their skills or anyone who loves the visual thrill of surface fishing. With room for two guests, it's an ideal trip to share with a fishing buddy or to get some one-on-one instruction. The inshore setting means calmer waters and a variety of fish species to target. Bring your camera – the surface strikes make for great photos and memories!
Top-Rated Topwater Trip | Sonrise Fishing

Surface Smashing Action

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Angler fishing in TX

Seven fish caught in Hitchcock, Texas during a fishing tour

Two people on a fishing tour in TX

Fishing in Hitchcock, Texas

Redfish caught while fishing in TX

Angler fishing in Hitchcock

Exciting fishing tour in TX

A person fishing in TX

Lone angler fishing in Texas countryside

6 fishing tour in TX

Angler fishing in TX

Seven fish caught in Hitchcock, Texas during a fishing tour

Two people on a fishing tour in TX

Fishing in Hitchcock, Texas

Redfish caught while fishing in TX

Angler fishing in Hitchcock

Exciting fishing tour in TX

A person fishing in TX

Lone angler fishing in Texas countryside

6 fishing tour in TX

Angler fishing in TX

Seven fish caught in Hitchcock, Texas during a fishing tour

Two people on a fishing tour in TX

Fishing in Hitchcock, Texas

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Topwater Thrills: Explosive Fishing Action

Ready for some heart-pounding fishing action? Our Topwater Trip is all about those surface-smashing strikes that'll get your adrenaline pumping. We're talking about redfish and sea trout blasting through the water's surface to nail your lure. It's visual, it's exciting, and it's a technique that'll have you hooked from the get-go.

What's the Deal?

This trip is your chance to master the art of topwater fishing. We'll show you how to work those surface lures just right to trigger explosive strikes from hungry predators. It's not just about catching fish; it's about experiencing the thrill of seeing a big red or trout demolish your lure right before your eyes. And hey, if topwater's not producing, we've got plenty of other artificial lures in our arsenal to keep the action hot. With room for two anglers, it's perfect for you and a buddy to compete for the biggest catch of the day.

Topwater Tactics 101

Alright, let's talk shop. Topwater fishing isn't just about chucking a lure out there and hoping for the best. We'll teach you the finesse of the "walk-the-dog" retrieve, how to create that irresistible wounded baitfish action, and when to pause for maximum effect. We're using high-quality topwater plugs, poppers, and maybe even some buzzbaits if conditions are right. The key is reading the water, spotting the signs of feeding fish, and presenting your lure in a way that says "easy meal" to those big reds and trout lurking below.

Target Species

Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are the bulldogs of the flats. Redfish in our waters can grow upwards of 40 inches, with most keepers in the 18-27 inch range. They've got a sweet spot on their tail that, when they see your topwater lure skittering across the surface, they just can't resist smashing. The best time to target them on top is early morning or late evening when they're actively feeding. There's nothing quite like seeing that big red back break the surface as it engulfs your lure.

Sea Trout: Also known as speckled trout, these guys are the sprinters of our inshore waters. They're quick, they're aggressive, and they love to ambush prey near the surface. Sea trout typically range from 14-20 inches, but trophy "gator" trout can push 30 inches or more. These fish have soft mouths, so when they explode on your topwater lure, it's all about finesse in the hookset. Dawn and dusk are prime times for trout on top, especially around grass flats and oyster bars.

Why Topwater is Top-Notch

Listen, there's a reason why topwater fishing is a favorite among seasoned anglers. It's not just fishing; it's a full-on sensory experience. You're watching that lure dance across the surface, listening for that distinctive "slurp" or explosion, and then it's game on. It's a technique that not only catches fish but does it in the most exciting way possible. Plus, the fish you catch on top tend to be the bigger, more aggressive ones – we're talking about potential personal bests here, folks.

Gear and Guidance

We've got you covered with all the right gear for a successful day of topwater fishing. We're talking about medium to medium-heavy rods paired with reels spooled with 15-20 lb test line. Our selection of topwater lures is dialed in for the local conditions and species. But more than just the gear, you're getting the benefit of local knowledge. We know where the fish are holding, what they're feeding on, and how to present your lure for maximum effect. It's not just about catching fish; it's about leveling up your angling skills.

When to Book Your Trip

Topwater fishing can be productive year-round in our area, but there are some prime times to consider. Spring and fall are absolutely on fire, with aggressive fish feeding heavily in preparation for spawning or winter. Summer mornings can be epic, with fish blasting topwater lures to beat the heat. Even in winter, on those warmer days, you can have some incredible topwater action. The beauty of this trip is its versatility – if the topwater bite slows, we've got plenty of other artificial lure techniques to keep the rods bent.

What to Bring

Alright, let's talk essentials. You'll want to bring: - A hat and polarized sunglasses (trust me, you'll want to see those strikes clearly) - Sunscreen (the sun out here doesn't mess around) - Weather-appropriate clothing (layers are your friend) - A camera or phone for pics (you'll want proof of that monster trout) - Your favorite beverage and snacks (staying hydrated is key) - And most importantly, bring your A-game and a positive attitude

Why Choose This Trip?

Look, there are plenty of fishing charters out there. But how many of them focus on teaching you a specific, highly effective technique that you can use for years to come? This isn't just a "sit back and reel" kind of trip. You're going to be actively engaged, learning, and improving your skills with every cast. And let's be real – the excitement of a topwater strike is unmatched in inshore fishing. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to refine your technique or a newbie wanting to learn from the get-go, this trip is tailored to take your fishing game to the next level.

Local Know-How

We're not just guides; we're local anglers who live and breathe these waters. We know the tides, the spots, and the patterns that make for successful trips. We'll put you on fish, sure, but we'll also share the kind of local insights that'll make you a better angler. From understanding how weather affects the bite to recognizing the subtle signs of feeding fish, you're getting a crash course in local fishing wisdom.

Conservation Minded

Here's the deal – we love these waters and the fish in them. That's why we practice and promote responsible fishing. We'll teach you proper catch and release techniques for those fish you don't keep, ensuring they swim away healthy to fight another day. It's all about sustainable fishing practices so that the next generation can enjoy the same thrills we do today.

Book Your Topwater Adventure

Alright, let's cut to the chase. If you're ready for some of the most exciting fishing action you can experience inshore, it's time to book your Topwater Trip. Whether you're looking to land your personal best, learn new techniques, or just have a blast on the water, we've got you covered. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait. Give us a call, shoot us an email, or hit that "Book Now" button. Trust me, your future self will thank you when you're watching that monster redfish crush your topwater lure. Let's make some fishing memories that'll have you coming back for more!

Learn more about the species

Sea Trout

Sea trout, or speckled trout, are a favorite inshore target. These silvery, spotted fish usually run 14-24 inches and a few pounds, but monsters over 30 inches do show up. You'll find them around grass flats, channels, and deeper holes, especially at night or early morning. They're suckers for topwater lures, which makes for some exciting visual strikes. Spring and fall are typically the best seasons as the water temps are ideal. Trout are known for their soft, delicate meat - just be careful not to overcook it. They're not the hardest fighters, but their willingness to hit lures and delicious flavor more than make up for it. If you're struggling to find them, try drifting live shrimp under a popping cork. That's a local secret that rarely fails to produce some action.

Sea Trout

Redfish

Redfish are a blast to target on the flats. These copper-colored bruisers typically run 20-30 inches but can hit 45+ in deeper water. Look for them tailing in shallow grass or mud bottoms, often in just 1-4 feet of water. They love structure like oyster beds and old docks too. Fall and spring are prime seasons when water temps are right. Anglers prize redfish for their hard-fighting nature - they'll take off on blistering runs when hooked. The meat's also top-notch for the dinner table. To entice a strike, try working a gold spoon or soft plastic shrimp imitation slowly along the bottom. My go-to trick is to look for pushed-up water or "nervous" bait fish, then cast beyond and work the lure back through the zone. Stay stealthy, and you might just land yourself a trophy red.

Redfish
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Experience The Ultimate Fishing Adventure in Galveston Bay with Captain Justen Simpton and Sonrise Fishing. Book Your Dream Trip Now!

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