Get ready to hit the flats and backwaters of Texas for a full day of rod-bending action! This 8-hour private charter with Captain Mark is tailor-made for serious anglers looking to tangle with some of the Lone Star State's most prized inshore species. Whether you're a light tackle enthusiast or a fly fishing fanatic, this trip offers the perfect blend of technical challenge and pure fishing fun.
From the moment you step aboard, you'll know you're in for a treat. Captain Mark's got the local waters dialed in, and he'll put you right on top of the fish. We're talking skinny water sight-fishing for tailing reds, working mangrove edges for snook, or probing deeper channels for monster jacks. The beauty of this full-day trip is the flexibility it offers. You'll have time to really explore different areas and tactics, adjusting as needed to find the hot bite.
Bring your A-game, because this isn't your average "bait and wait" charter. We're talking artificial lures and flies only, so you'll need to be on point with your presentations. Don't sweat it if you're still honing your skills though – Captain Mark's got a knack for coaching anglers of all levels. Just be ready to cast, cast, and cast some more. The reward? That heart-stopping moment when a big snook crushes your topwater or a redfish inhales your fly. Trust me, it's worth every ounce of effort.
Leave the tackle box at home, folks. Captain Mark's got you covered with top-notch gear suited for the task at hand. We're talking light to medium spinning setups perfect for slinging soft plastics and topwaters, or premium fly rods if that's your jam. The boat's decked out for serious fishing too – a shallow-drafting skiff that'll get us into those skinny water honey holes where the big boys hang out.
Your job? Just bring the essentials: a valid Texas saltwater fishing license (don't forget!), some grub to keep you fueled up, plenty of water (trust me, you'll need it), and sun protection. We're talking hat, polarized sunnies, and comfy clothes that can handle a full day on the water. Oh, and don't forget the camera – you'll want proof when you're telling stories about that monster red you landed!
"Captain Mark was outstanding—knowledgeable, skilled, well-equipped, and most importantly, had a fantastic attitude. He took us to all the right spots at the perfect time of the season, and the great weather made the experience even better. Throughout the day, we had great conversations and enjoyed the incredible wildlife, which added to the adventure.
While we didn't land a Snook, Captain Mark gave it his all, and we still managed to boat three keeper-sized fish while spotting plenty more. My only small suggestion would be to mix up the techniques if one approach isn't working, perhaps trying live or cut bait. But overall, it was an excellent trip. I've booked many charters, and this was one of my top experiences. I'd absolutely go out with Captain Mark again and highly recommend him!" - Conrad
Snook: These line-sided bruisers are the unofficial kings of Texas inshore fishing. Snook love to hang tight to structure, so get ready to make some precise casts along mangrove edges, dock pilings, and oyster bars. They've got a knack for explosive strikes and blistering runs, so hold on tight! Spring and fall are prime times, but with our nearly year-round fishery, you've always got a shot at a trophy.
Redfish: Nothing beats sight-fishing for big reds on the flats. These copper-colored bulldogs will test your nerves as you try to drop a lure or fly right on their nose without spooking them. When they're tailing in skinny water, it's a sight that'll make any angler's heart race. Reds are around all year, but fall is when they really shine, schooling up and feeding aggressively.
Southern Flounder: Don't let their funny looks fool you – flounder are ambush predators with a serious appetite. We'll target them around drop-offs and creek mouths, where they love to lie in wait for unsuspecting baitfish. The challenge? Getting your lure right in their strike zone without hanging up. Fall is flounder season, with big females moving to the Gulf to spawn.
Tarpon: The "silver king" makes sporadic appearances in our waters, but when they show up, it's game on! These prehistoric powerhouses will test every ounce of your angling skill. We're talking acrobatic jumps, long runs, and battles that can last hours. Late summer and early fall offer your best shot at hooking into one of these bucket-list fish.
Jack Crevalle: When you need a serious drag-screaming fix, jacks are the answer. These bruisers school up and terrorize bait pods, creating surface blowups you can hear from a mile away. They fight dirty and never seem to quit, so make sure you've been hitting the gym! Jacks can show up year-round, but they're especially thick in the warmer months.
Listen, if you're serious about putting some bend in your rod and testing your skills against some of the toughest inshore species Texas has to offer, this is the trip for you. Captain Mark knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's got the patience and know-how to put you on fish all day long. With only two spots available, you'll get personalized attention and the flexibility to really dial in your technique.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your fishing buddy, clear your calendar, and get ready for a full day of non-stop action on the Texas coast. Trust me, whether you're a seasoned pro or still working on your cast, this trip will have you grinning from ear to ear and planning your next visit before you even hit the dock. Book now and let's get fishin'!
July 7, 2024
Jack Crevalle are the bulldogs of the coast. These broad-shouldered fish average 3-5 pounds but can top 30. They roam in schools, often busting bait on the surface. Look for them in bays, passes, and along beaches, especially in summer and fall. Jacks aren't great eating, but they're prized for their relentless fights. Once hooked, they'll test your drag and your stamina. They'll hit just about any fast-moving lure - topwaters, spoons, and jigs all work well. Watch for diving birds to find feeding schools. A word of caution: these fish can hurt you. Their powerful gill plates and dorsal spines are sharp, so handle with care. Pro tip: when you see a jack school blitzing bait, cast beyond the frenzy and retrieve through it. The competition often triggers savage strikes.
Redfish are a Texas staple, known for their copper color and distinctive tail spot. Most run 20-30 inches, but "bull reds" over 40 inches aren't uncommon. You'll find them year-round in shallow bays, around oyster reefs, and tailing on grass flats. They love to cruise edges where deep water meets shallow. Fall is especially good as they school up to spawn. Redfish are popular for their hard fights and excellent table fare. They'll hit just about anything - live bait, soft plastics, or topwaters all work well. On calm days, look for their tails sticking up as they root for crabs in shallow water. A local secret: when you see a group of tailing reds, cast well past them and drag your lure into the school. Direct casts often spook these wary fish.
Snook are the inshore prize of Texas waters. These sleek, powerful fish typically run 1-3 feet long, with some monsters pushing 4 feet. You'll find them lurking around mangroves, docks, and oyster bars in shallow estuaries and bays. They love structure and current, so target those areas. Spring and fall are prime seasons as snook move between spawning grounds and winter hideouts. Anglers love snook for their explosive strikes and acrobatic fights. They're smart, often throwing hooks with wild head shakes. For best results, use live bait like pinfish or mullet, or try walk-the-dog topwaters at dawn and dusk. A local tip: when you hook one, get it turned quickly or it'll likely wrap you around the nearest piling. Snook are catch-and-release only in Texas, so handle with care.
Southern Flounder are masters of camouflage, blending perfectly with sandy or muddy bottoms. These flatfish typically range from 15 to 18 inches, though trophy-sized ones can reach 33 inches. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. They're ambush predators, so look for them around structure or dropoffs. Fall is prime time as they move to spawn. Flounder are prized for their delicate, mild flavor, making them a favorite catch-and-keep target. They can be tricky to hook, often mouthing bait before committing. A local trick: when you feel a bite, don't set the hook immediately. Instead, give the flounder a few seconds to fully take the bait, then reel steadily to set the hook. Patience is key with these tasty bottom-dwellers.
Tarpon, the "Silver King," is the ultimate bucket list fish for many anglers. These prehistoric beasts can top 200 pounds and put on aerial displays like no other. In Texas, we see them from late spring through fall, often in passes and along beachfronts. They'll also push into bays chasing bait. Look for rolling fish on calm mornings. Tarpon are all about the fight - they're not good eating, but the thrill of jumping a big one is unforgettable. They're notoriously tricky to hook and land. Live mullet, crabs, or large topwater plugs can entice strikes. My best tip: when a tarpon jumps, drop your rod tip to give it slack. This "bowing to the king" helps keep hooks set. Be prepared for long battles and have a camera ready for that trophy shot before release.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 35
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 115
Captain Mark was outstanding—knowledgeable, skilled, well-equipped, and most importantly, had a fantastic attitude. He took us to all the right spots at the perfect time of the season, and the great weather made the experience even better. Throughout the day, we had great conversations and enjoyed the incredible wildlife, which added to the adventure. While we didn’t land a Snook, Captain Mark gave it his all, and we still managed to boat three keeper-sized fish while spotting plenty more. My only small suggestion would be to mix up the techniques if one approach isn’t working, perhaps trying live or cut bait. But overall, it was an excellent trip. I’ve booked many charters, and this was one of my top experiences. I’d absolutely go out with Captain Mark again and highly recommend him!