LescoOutdoors in South Padre Island, Texas

Embarking on an airboat trip through the back bays of Laguna Madre in Bahia Grande offers a unique and thrilling experience for a small group of 3-4 nature enthusiasts. This serene journey through the intricate waterways provides an up-close view of some of Texas' most captivating wildlife and scenic landscapes. As the airboat skims over the shallow waters, the first thing that strikes you is the sense of tranquility. The wide expanse of Laguna Madre, one of the few hypersaline lagoons in the world, stretches out, creating a mosaic of blues and greens. The air is filled with the calls of various birds, making it a bird watcher’s paradise. Keep your binoculars handy, as this region is home to a rich diversity of avian species. Look out for the elegant roseate spoonbills with their distinctive pink plumage, and the majestic osprey, often seen diving into the water to catch fish. The trip offers ample opportunities to spot local wildlife. The shallow waters of Laguna Madre and the connected back bays are teeming with fish. As you glide through the waters, schools of mullet and redfish dart around, sometimes even jumping out of the water in synchronized leaps. For those interested in angling, the boat can stop in some prime fishing spots where you might try your luck at catching trout or flounder. A sense of excitement builds as you venture deeper into the marshy areas, which are known habitats for American alligators. The guide expertly maneuvers the airboat through narrow channels, pointing out areas where these formidable reptiles are often seen basking in the sun or stealthily swimming. Observing an alligator in its natural habitat is a thrilling highlight, offering a glimpse into the raw, untamed beauty of the region. The landscape itself is a study in contrasts. The lush, green marshes give way to the more arid regions of the Bahia Grande restoration area, showcasing efforts to rehabilitate this vital ecosystem. The guide shares fascinating insights into the history and ongoing conservation efforts aimed at preserving the unique flora and fauna of this area. As the trip winds down, the airboat pauses in a secluded spot, allowing you to fully absorb the serene beauty of your surroundings. The combination of the gentle hum of the boat, the chirping of birds, and the occasional splash of a fish creates a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere. It's a perfect moment to reflect on the diverse natural wonders encountered during the trip. Whether you're an avid bird watcher, an angler, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, an airboat trip through the back bays of Laguna Madre in Bahia Grande offers a memorable adventure filled with stunning sights and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Read More

A bay fishing trip in the Lower Laguna Madre, launching from either Port Mansfield or South Padre Island, promises an exhilarating and rewarding experience for any angler. Aboard a sleek 24' Shallow Sport Classic powered by a robust 250 Yamaha outboard engine, the adventure begins as you head out into the pristine waters of this renowned fishing haven. As you depart from the dock, the anticipation builds. The Shallow Sport Classic, designed for superior performance in shallow waters, effortlessly glides over the clear, turquoise flats of the Laguna Madre. The boat's shallow draft allows you to access the prime fishing spots that larger vessels can't reach, ensuring an optimal experience in the quest for redfish, trout, flounder, and black drum. The guide, experienced and knowledgeable about the local waters, navigates to the first fishing spot. Here, the calm, shallow waters are ideal for sight fishing. The guide points out a school of redfish, their coppery bodies glinting just below the surface. You cast your line with precision, and almost immediately, you feel the tug of a redfish on your hook. The fight is intense, but with skill and patience, you reel in a beautiful redfish, its vibrant colors shimmering in the sunlight. Next, the boat heads to slightly deeper waters where speckled trout are known to be abundant. Using live bait or artificial lures, you cast into the deeper channels and soon find yourself battling a large trout. The thrill of the catch and the beauty of these speckled fish make for an unforgettable experience. As the day progresses, the focus shifts to flounder and black drum. The boat drifts quietly over sandy bottoms and grassy flats, perfect habitats for these species. Flounder, with their unique, flat bodies, offer a different kind of challenge, often requiring a slower, more deliberate approach. When you finally hook one, the reward is a delicious, flaky fish that's a favorite among local chefs. The black drum, known for their strength and size, provide yet another exciting challenge. These fish are often found near oyster beds and grassy shorelines. Their distinctive black and white stripes and the drumming sound they make when caught add to the unique experience of fishing in the Laguna Madre. Reeling in a large black drum is a true test of your angling skills, providing a satisfying sense of accomplishment. Throughout the trip, the stunning backdrop of the Lower Laguna Madre enhances the experience. The wide-open skies, the distant outline of the barrier islands, and the occasional sighting of dolphins playing in the waves create a picturesque setting. Whether you're an experienced angler or a novice, the guide offers tips and techniques to improve your chances of landing the big one, ensuring a memorable and productive day on the water. As the sun begins to set, casting a golden glow over the bay, the boat heads back to the dock. The day's catch is a testament to the rich biodiversity and excellent fishing opportunities that the Lower Laguna Madre offers. Whether you choose to take your catch home for a fresh seafood dinner or practice catch and release, the memories of this incredible fishing adventure will stay with you long after you leave the water. Read More

Fishing the back bays of Port Mansfield in the brackish waters of the Lower Laguna Madre from an airboat adds an exhilarating dimension to the adventure. The airboat's unique capabilities allow access to shallow, hard-to-reach areas, enhancing the overall experience and increasing the chances of encountering a diverse range of fish species, including alligator gar, redfish, and catfish. As the airboat skims over the shallow flats and marshes, its powerful engine propelling it effortlessly across the water, the sense of anticipation builds. The airboat's ability to traverse very shallow waters and navigate through dense vegetation means you can explore fishing spots that are virtually untouched, providing an unmatched opportunity to catch some impressive fish. The primary target in these waters is the formidable alligator gar. Known for their size and strength, these prehistoric fish require a sturdy setup. The airboat maneuvers into a quiet, sheltered cove where alligator gar are known to lurk. You cast your heavy-duty line into the murky depths, using bait that attracts these giants. The wait is filled with tension, and when an alligator gar finally takes the bait, the fight is fierce. The airboat provides a stable platform, allowing you to brace yourself as you reel in the powerful fish. The sight of its long, armored body and rows of sharp teeth as it surfaces is a thrilling reward for your effort. Next, the airboat heads to the grassy edges and shallow flats, prime feeding grounds for redfish. Redfish are known for their hard strikes and strong runs, making them a favorite among anglers. The airboat's ability to glide over these shallow areas without disturbing the fish below gives you an advantage. You cast your line, watching for the distinctive tailing behavior of redfish. When one hits, the fight is exhilarating, with the fish making powerful runs that test your skill and strength. Catfish are another prominent species in the brackish waters. The airboat stops over deeper channels and muddy areas where catfish are likely to be feeding. Using a bottom rig with bait such as cut fish or shrimp, you cast into the deeper water. The bites can come quickly, and catfish provide a good fight as they pull against the current and your line. The airboat's stable platform makes it easier to handle the feisty catfish as you reel them in. Throughout the day, the airboat's versatility allows for quick changes in location, maximizing your fishing opportunities. The ability to cover more ground means you can explore various habitats, each home to different species and offering unique challenges. The serene surroundings of the back bays, bordered by salt marshes and mangroves, create a peaceful backdrop for the adventure. The brackish waters teem with life, and the occasional sight of a bird diving for fish or the splash of a jumping fish adds to the experience. Fishing from an airboat in the back bays of Port Mansfield combines the thrill of high-speed travel with the tranquility of nature and the excitement of fishing. The dynamic nature of the airboat allows you to reach the best fishing spots, giving you an edge in your quest for alligator gar, redfish, and catfish. Whether you are an experienced angler or new to the sport, this unique approach to fishing in the Lower Laguna Madre promises an unforgettable adventure filled with thrilling catches and the stunning beauty of Texas' coastal wilderness. Read More

A duck hunting trip from Port Mansfield aboard an airboat offers an unparalleled adventure for waterfowl enthusiasts. The unique capabilities of the airboat allow access to remote marshes and shallow waters in the Lower Laguna Madre, creating the perfect conditions for a successful hunt. The rich diversity of duck species in this area, including red ducks, pintails, green-winged teal, blue-winged teal, mottled ducks, bluebills, and northern shovelers, promises an exciting and rewarding experience. As dawn breaks, the airboat, loaded with gear and eager hunters, departs from Port Mansfield. The air is crisp and the anticipation is palpable. The powerful airboat skims over the glassy water, navigating through narrow channels and over shallow flats with ease. The journey itself is exhilarating, as the boat maneuvers through the intricate maze of marshes and bayous, taking you to secluded hunting spots inaccessible to traditional boats. Arriving at a prime location, the airboat glides to a stop in a secluded cove surrounded by tall reeds and mangroves. The guide expertly sets up decoys, mimicking a small flock of ducks to attract passing birds. Concealed in a well-constructed blind, you settle in, scanning the horizon as the first light of day begins to illuminate the landscape. The first ducks to appear are often green-winged and blue-winged teal, darting across the sky in rapid, agile flight. Their small size and swift movements make them a challenging target, but also highly rewarding. As they approach the decoys, you take aim, the thrill of the hunt surging through you as you successfully bring down a teal. Next, the distinctive silhouette of northern shovelers and pintails become visible against the morning sky. The northern shoveler, with its broad, spatula-shaped bill, and the elegant pintail, with its long neck and pointed tail feathers, add variety to the hunt. These ducks are known for their wary nature, requiring patience and skill to lure them into range. The satisfaction of successfully bagging these ducks is immense, a testament to your marksmanship and the effectiveness of the decoy setup. As the day progresses, mottled ducks and bluebills, also known as scaup, make their appearance. Mottled ducks, with their distinctive mottled plumage, often fly low and fast, while bluebills are known for their speed and maneuverability. The challenge of adapting to the flight patterns of different species keeps the hunt dynamic and engaging. Red ducks, or redheads, are another prized target. These striking birds, with their vibrant red heads and gray bodies, often travel in large flocks, providing multiple opportunities for shots. The excitement of seeing a flock of redheads approaching, their wings whistling in the wind, is a highlight of the trip. Throughout the hunt, the airboat's versatility shines. Its ability to navigate shallow waters and reach isolated spots ensures that you are always positioned in prime hunting areas. The airboat also allows for quick relocation if needed, maximizing your chances of encountering various duck species. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, signaling the end of the morning hunt, the airboat heads back to Port Mansfield. The journey back is filled with the camaraderie of shared stories and the satisfaction of a successful hunt. The diverse array of ducks harvested showcases the rich bounty of the Lower Laguna Madre and the effectiveness of the airboat in accessing this prime hunting ground. A duck hunting trip from Port Mansfield aboard an airboat offers an unforgettable experience. The combination of high-speed travel, access to remote and productive hunting areas, and the thrill of pursuing a wide variety of duck species makes this adventure a must for any waterfowl hunter. The memories of this unique and exhilarating hunt will stay with you long after the season ends. Read More

Hunting sandhill cranes in the South Texas brush is an experience steeped in tradition and excitement, offering a unique challenge to even the most seasoned hunters. Known as the "ribeye of the sky" due to their exceptional table fare, sandhill cranes are large, wary birds that require a blend of skill, patience, and strategic planning to hunt successfully. The day begins in the early pre-dawn hours, with hunters gathering their gear and preparing for the journey into the brush. The South Texas landscape, characterized by its vast open fields, mesquite thickets, and rolling plains, provides the ideal habitat for sandhill cranes. The first light of dawn is just breaking as you head out, the cool morning air filled with anticipation. Arriving at the hunting location, the guide selects a spot that offers both concealment and a clear view of the sky. Sandhill cranes have keen eyesight and are notoriously cautious, making it crucial to set up a well-camouflaged blind. The decoy spread is carefully arranged to mimic a feeding or resting flock, a crucial element in drawing the birds within range. Motion decoys can be particularly effective, adding realism to the setup and attracting the attention of passing cranes. As the sun rises, the distant calls of sandhill cranes can be heard, a haunting and distinctive sound that echoes across the landscape. The sight of these majestic birds flying in formation against the backdrop of the Texas sky is both awe-inspiring and a signal to get ready. The cranes typically fly in from their roosting areas to feed in the fields, making this prime time for hunting. Patience is key as you wait for the cranes to approach. The birds often circle high above, scrutinizing the decoy spread before committing to land. When a group finally descends, the excitement is palpable. You wait for the right moment, then take aim and fire, the challenge of hitting such a large but wary bird adding to the thrill. The sound of a successful shot, followed by the sight of a crane falling, is immensely satisfying. Throughout the morning, the patterns continue, with flocks of sandhill cranes flying in and out of the area. Each opportunity requires careful coordination and timing, as cranes can quickly detect any irregularities and change their flight path. The broad, open skies of South Texas offer plenty of opportunities, but they also mean that the birds can see you from far off, demanding a high level of stealth and precision. Aside from the hunt itself, the experience of being immersed in the South Texas brush is memorable. The rugged beauty of the landscape, with its mix of open plains and dense mesquite, provides a picturesque backdrop. The diversity of wildlife in the area, from deer and javelina to a wide variety of bird species, adds to the overall richness of the experience. As the hunt concludes, the successful harvest of sandhill cranes is celebrated. These birds, known for their delicious meat, are highly prized, and the effort put into the hunt is richly rewarded. Cleaning and preparing the cranes for a future feast is part of the tradition, with many hunters savoring the anticipation of a meal that is as unique as the hunting experience itself. Hunting sandhill cranes in the South Texas brush is not just about the thrill of the chase, but also about the connection to the land and the camaraderie among hunters. It’s an adventure that combines skill, patience, and an appreciation for the natural world, making it a cherished tradition for those who partake in it. The memories of this hunt, from the haunting calls of the cranes to the shared successes, create stories that will be told for years to come. Read More

Hunting Rio Grande gobblers in South Texas is an exhilarating pursuit that draws hunters into the heart of the region's rugged, beautiful landscapes. Known for their vibrant plumage and challenging behavior, these wild turkeys offer a hunt that is both demanding and deeply rewarding. The adventure begins in the early morning darkness, with hunters gathering their gear and heading out to the chosen hunting grounds. South Texas' terrain is a mix of open fields, dense mesquite thickets, and rolling hills, providing the perfect habitat for Rio Grande turkeys. As dawn approaches, the air is filled with anticipation, and the first light of day begins to break over the horizon. Setting up before first light is crucial. The guide selects a location near known roosting sites, often marked by tall trees where the turkeys spend the night. Using a combination of camouflage clothing and blinds, you position yourself to blend seamlessly into the environment. The key to success is remaining completely still and silent, as wild turkeys have exceptionally sharp eyesight and hearing. As the sun starts to rise, the stillness of the morning is broken by the distant gobbles of Rio Grande toms calling from their roosts. These calls, echoing through the brush, send a thrill through you and signal the beginning of the hunt. The guide may use a variety of turkey calls—such as clucks, purrs, and yelps—to mimic the sounds of hens, enticing the gobblers to come closer. Patience and timing are essential. As the gobblers respond to the calls, you can hear them getting closer, their gobbles growing louder and more frequent. The anticipation builds with each passing moment. Finally, you catch sight of a tom strutting into view, his feathers puffed out and tail fanned in a magnificent display. The sight of a Rio Grande gobbler in full strut is breathtaking, showcasing the bird’s iridescent plumage and proud demeanor. With your heart pounding, you carefully take aim. The challenge is not just in the shot, but in waiting for the perfect moment to ensure a clean, ethical kill. When the time is right, you squeeze the trigger, and the sharp report of the shotgun echoes through the brush. The thrill of a successful hunt is immense, and the sight of the downed gobbler is a testament to your skill and patience. The excitement doesn’t end with the first gobbler. South Texas is known for its healthy population of Rio Grande turkeys, and often multiple birds can be encountered during a single outing. Each hunt offers a unique challenge, as gobblers can be wary and unpredictable, sometimes circling wide to approach from unexpected angles or hanging up just out of range. The landscape itself adds to the experience. The rugged beauty of South Texas, with its mix of open spaces and dense cover, provides a stunning backdrop. The early morning light casting long shadows over the terrain, the rustling of wildlife, and the occasional sighting of deer or other game animals enhance the sense of being immersed in nature. As the day progresses and the hunt winds down, the satisfaction of a successful outing is palpable. The Rio Grande gobbler, known for its impressive size and striking appearance, is a prized trophy. The experience of tracking, calling, and ultimately harvesting these magnificent birds creates memories that will last a lifetime. Back at camp, the camaraderie among fellow hunters, the sharing of stories and experiences, and the celebration of a successful hunt add to the richness of the adventure. Cleaning and preparing the turkey for a meal is part of the tradition, with many hunters savoring the prospect of enjoying the fruits of their labor. Hunting Rio Grande gobblers in South Texas is more than just a hunt; it’s an experience that connects you to the land, the wildlife, and the rich hunting heritage of the region. The combination of skill, patience, and the thrill of the chase makes this hunt a cherished tradition for all who partake. The memories of this pursuit, from the first predawn calls to the final successful shot, are stories to be told and retold, celebrating the enduring allure of hunting in South Texas. Read More

Flounder gigging in the shallow coastal waters of South Texas, particularly around Port Mansfield and the Lower Laguna Madre, offers a unique and exhilarating experience for anglers. This nighttime activity combines the thrill of the hunt with the serene beauty of the coastal environment, creating memories that last a lifetime. As the sun sets and darkness falls, you gather your gear and prepare for the adventure. The equipment for flounder gigging is simple yet essential: a sturdy gig (a long pole with a multi-pronged spear at the end), a bright underwater light, and appropriate footwear for wading in shallow waters. Some enthusiasts also use a flat-bottomed boat or, for a more immersive experience, an airboat equipped with powerful lights to illuminate the seabed. The journey begins as you head out into the calm, shallow waters. The transition from day to night transforms the coastal landscape into a tranquil and otherworldly realm. The air is cool, and the only sounds are the gentle lapping of water against the boat and the occasional call of a nocturnal bird. The powerful lights on the boat or your handheld light pierce the inky darkness, revealing the sandy or muddy bottom of the shallows where flounder lie hidden. Flounder are masters of camouflage, blending seamlessly into their surroundings. The key to successful gigging is patience and keen observation. As you move slowly through the water, the light reveals the telltale outline of a flounder lying flat against the bottom. Spotting the subtle shape of these elusive fish requires a sharp eye and an understanding of their behavior and habitats. Once a flounder is spotted, the next step is to approach it carefully. Moving too quickly or creating too much noise can startle the fish, causing it to dart away. With a steady hand and precise aim, you thrust the gig into the flounder, securing it before it has a chance to escape. The moment of a successful gig is filled with excitement and satisfaction, a testament to your skill and patience. Throughout the night, the thrill of the hunt is accompanied by the serene beauty of the coastal environment. The shimmering lights reflect off the water, creating a mesmerizing and peaceful ambiance. The stars overhead and the distant glow of coastal lights add to the enchantment of the experience. Flounder gigging also offers a unique perspective on marine life. As you wade or float through the shallows, you may encounter a variety of other nocturnal creatures, from crabs scuttling along the bottom to schools of fish illuminated by your lights. These encounters add to the richness of the adventure, providing a deeper appreciation for the coastal ecosystem. As the night progresses and you accumulate a catch, the satisfaction of a successful outing grows. Flounder, prized for their delicious, delicate meat, are a culinary delight. Back at the dock or campsite, the evening ends with the cleaning and preparation of the flounder, ready to be enjoyed as a fresh and flavorful meal. The simplicity of grilling or frying these freshly caught fish adds to the allure of the experience, creating a direct connection between the hunt and the feast. Flounder gigging in South Texas is more than just a method of fishing; it's an immersive adventure that combines skill, patience, and an appreciation for the natural world. The quiet beauty of the night, the thrill of the hunt, and the satisfaction of a successful catch make this a cherished tradition for those who partake. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a newcomer to gigging, the experience of flounder gigging in the shallow coastal waters of South Texas is one that promises excitement, tranquility, and unforgettable memories. Read More