Expert-Guided Galveston Bay Fishing Adventures

Reel in Redfish and Trout on Galveston Bay

Ready to wet a line in some of the best inshore waters Texas has to offer? Join Captain Jason Custer of Small Time Charters for a 5-hour beginner fishing trip that'll have you hooked on Galveston Bay. Whether you're new to fishing or looking to sharpen your skills, this hands-on charter is all about putting you on the fish and showing you the ropes of inshore angling. We'll be targeting the bay's most sought-after species – redfish, speckled trout, and flounder – while cruising in a fast, comfortable 24-foot Blazer Bay boat. With all the gear provided and expert guidance at your side, you'll be casting like a pro in no time.

What to Expect on the Water

As we push off from the dock, you'll feel the excitement build. Captain Jason knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's got a knack for putting clients on fish. We'll start by going over the basics – how to work your rod and reel, what baits we're using, and the best techniques for enticing a bite. Then it's time to hit the hotspots. We might start in the shallows, sight-casting to tailing redfish, or drift the deeper channels for specks. Every trip is different, but one thing's for sure – you're in for a day of non-stop action and hands-on learning that'll boost your fishing game.

Techniques That Land Lunkers

On this trip, you'll get schooled in the art of inshore fishing. We'll cover everything from reading the water to perfecting your cast. Depending on conditions, we might throw soft plastics, work topwater lures, or use live bait to tempt the fish. You'll learn how to "walk the dog" with a topwater plug, feel the subtle "thump" of a trout strike, and master the hookset on a hard-pulling redfish. Captain Jason's all about sharing his know-how, so don't be shy – ask questions and soak up all the tips you can. By the end of the day, you'll have a solid foundation in inshore tactics that'll serve you well on future fishing adventures.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish are the rock stars of Galveston Bay, and for good reason. These copper-colored bruisers put up a fight that'll have your drag singing. They love to cruise the shallows, often revealing their location with their distinctive tail waving above the water. Redfish can grow to over 40 inches, but slot-sized fish between 20-28 inches are the sweet spot for both action and eating.

Speckled trout, or "specks" as the locals call 'em, are another prized catch. These spotted beauties are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic jumps. They school up in the cooler months, making for some fast and furious action when you find them. Trout in the 15-20 inch range are common, with gator trout over 25 inches being the trophies everyone's after.

Southern flounder might not win any beauty contests, but they're a blast to catch and even better on the dinner table. These flatfish are masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy bottom. We target them along drop-offs and around structure, using a slow, bouncing retrieve that mimics their favorite prey. Fall is prime time for flounder, as they start their annual migration to the Gulf.

Sheepshead, with their distinctive black and white stripes and chompers that look like human teeth, are the oddballs of the bay. These structure-loving fish are experts at stealing bait, making them a fun challenge for anglers of all levels. We find them around jetties, pilings, and oyster reefs, where they feast on crustaceans. Landing a big sheepshead is always cause for celebration – they're tough fighters and excellent eating.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Galveston Bay isn't just a fishery – it's a classroom, a playground, and a natural wonder all rolled into one. The diversity of habitats here means every trip is a new adventure. One minute you're sight-casting to redfish in gin-clear shallows, the next you're working a deep channel for monster trout. The bay's ecosystem is always changing with the tides and seasons, keeping things exciting for both novice and seasoned anglers alike. And let's not forget the backdrop – from dolphins playing in the wake to ospreys diving for their catch, there's always something to see out here.

Top Catches This Season

This year's been a banner one for Galveston Bay fishing. We've been seeing some monster trout coming out of the deeper channels, with several over 28 inches hitting the deck. The redfish action has been on fire too, especially around the marshy areas on the north side of the bay. Flounder numbers are looking strong, with lots of keeper-sized fish in the 16-20 inch range. And for those willing to put in the work, the sheepshead bite around the jetties has been producing some real heavyweights. No matter what's on your target list, chances are good we'll put you on some quality fish.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to get out on Galveston Bay and tangle with some of Texas' most popular inshore species, now's the time to lock in your date. This 5-hour trip with Small Time Charters is the perfect intro to bay fishing, whether you're a complete newbie or just looking to polish your skills. Captain Jason's got the knowledge, the boat, and all the gear you need – all you have to bring is your enthusiasm and maybe a cooler for your catch. With only two spots available per trip, these charters fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Don't miss your chance to experience some of the best inshore fishing the Gulf Coast has to offer. Book now, and get ready to make some memories (and maybe set a new personal best) on the rich waters of Galveston Bay. Tight lines!