Damn Good Flats Fishing Charters In The Laguna Madre

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Laguna Madre flats fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

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Recently Booked Flats Fishing Charters In The Laguna Madre

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing in South Padre Island

South Padre Bay Fishing

100% (2)
23 ft 1 - 5 People From $475
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, Flats in Port Aransas

Corpus Christi Flounder Gigging

100% (9)
20 ft 1 - 5 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, Flats in Corpus Christi

Morning Fishing Trip - 5 Hour

100% (7)
25 ft 1 - 10 People From $575
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, Flats in Corpus Christi

North Padre Texas Classic

100% (7)
24 ft 1 - 8 People From $495
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, Flats in Port Isabel

South Padre Island Bay Fishing

100% (5)
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $475
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, Flats in Corpus Christi

North Padre Sunset Special

100% (7)
24 ft 1 - 8 People From $495

Top Types of Flats Trips in the Laguna Madre

Top Species for Flats Fishing in the Laguna Madre

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

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More Flats Fishing Charters In The Laguna Madre

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, Flats in Corpus Christi

Afternoon Fishing!! 4 Hour

100% (7)
25 ft 1 - 8 People From $475
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing in Rockport

Redfish On The Fly

100% (2)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing in Port Isabel

Laguna Madre Shallows Trip

89% (9)
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $475
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing in Port Mansfield

Port Mansfield Bay (Drifting Or Wading)

NEW
24 ft 1 - 8 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, Flats in Corpus Christi

Afternoon Trips

NEW
25 ft 1 - 10 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, Flats in South Padre Island

SPI "All About Fishing" Trip

NEW
20 ft 1 - 3 People From $475
See All Flats Trips in the Laguna Madre

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Everything to Know About Booking a Laguna Madre flats fishing charter

What are the best flats fishing charters in the Laguna Madre?

Why should I book a flats fishing charter in the Laguna Madre with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 48 flats trips in the Laguna Madre, and the most popular trips in the area are South Padre Bay Fishing guided by Jonathan, Corpus Christi Flounder Gigging guided by Kyle, and Morning Fishing Trip - 5 hour guided by Shayne.

Our guides in the Laguna Madre are rated a 4.94 out of 5 based on 3786 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly flats guides / fishing lessons in the Laguna Madre? Check out our beginner and family friendly flats guides in the Laguna Madre.

What types of flats fishing charters are common in the Laguna Madre?

The most commonly sought after species for flats fishing are: 1. redfish, 2. speckled trout, 3. black drum, 4. flounder, and 5. sheepshead.

The most common fishing techniques in the Laguna Madre are light tackle fishing, drift fishing, and live bait fishing but artificial lure fishing and cut bait fishing are popular as well.

How much do Laguna Madre flats fishing charters cost?

Prices for flats fishing in the Laguna Madre can range anywhere from about $550 to $1,800, but the average price for a half day trip for flats fishing in the Laguna Madre is $955. The average price for a full day trip for flats fishing in the Laguna Madre is $1,170.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for flats fishing in the Laguna Madre?

The most popular season for flats fishing in the Laguna Madre is summer, and most anglers book their trips 16 days in advance.

Do I need a the Laguna Madre fishing license and what are the bag limits in the Laguna Madre?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in the Laguna Madre, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in the Laguna Madre. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in the Laguna Madre.

What is flats fishing in Laguna Madre all about?

Flats fishing in Laguna Madre, located along the Texas Gulf Coast, offers anglers a pristine and productive environment characterized by its shallow, clear waters and expansive seagrass flats. This unique ecosystem is home to a diverse range of inshore species, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. One of the most sought-after catches in Laguna Madre is the redfish, known for its powerful runs and spirited fights. These fish can be found prowling the shallow flats, particularly around grassy areas, sandbars, and oyster beds where they hunt for crustaceans, shrimp, and small fish. Anglers often use live bait such as shrimp or mullet, as well as artificial lures like spoons and soft plastics, to target redfish throughout the year.

Speckled trout are another prized species in Laguna Madre, valued for their aggressive strikes and delicious meat. These fish thrive in the bay's shallows, particularly during cooler months when they are more active and abundant. Anglers commonly target speckled trout using live bait such as shrimp or croaker, as well as artificial lures like topwater plugs and jerkbaits. Spring and fall are particularly productive seasons for speckled trout fishing in Laguna Madre, coinciding with their spawning and feeding patterns in the bay's warmer waters.

Flounder are also plentiful in Laguna Madre's flats, known for their unique flat shape and delicate flavor. These fish are often found near channels, sandy bottoms, and around structure such as docks and bridges where they lie in wait for passing prey. Anglers target flounder using live bait such as mullet or mud minnows, as well as jigging with artificial lures designed to mimic small fish or shrimp movements. Flounder fishing can be particularly productive during their migrations and spawning periods, offering anglers a chance to reel in a satisfying and tasty catch. Overall, flats fishing in Laguna Madre provides anglers with a rich and varied experience amidst the bay's serene and picturesque coastal landscape.

What are the most popular months to go flats fishing in Laguna Madre?

Flats fishing in Laguna Madre, located along the Texas Gulf Coast, offers anglers a pristine and rewarding experience in one of the most unique coastal ecosystems in the United States. Known for its expansive shallow flats, clear waters, and abundant seagrass beds, Laguna Madre provides ideal habitat for a variety of prized game fish species. Anglers visiting this area can target redfish, speckled trout, flounder, black drum, and occasionally tarpon, depending on the season and water conditions. The bay's shallow depths and clarity make it a perfect setting for sight fishing, where anglers can spot fish cruising or tailing in the shallows and present their lures or flies with precision.

The flats fishing seasons in Laguna Madre are influenced by seasonal changes, water temperatures, and baitfish migrations. Spring and fall are typically considered prime times for flats fishing, as cooler temperatures and moderate weather conditions stimulate fish activity. During these seasons, redfish and speckled trout are commonly targeted on the flats, where they feed voraciously on shrimp, crabs, and baitfish. Summer months can also offer productive fishing opportunities early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler and fish are more active near the surface.

Winter fishing in Laguna Madre tends to focus on deeper channels and nearshore areas where fish seek warmer water temperatures, although certain flats and protected coves can still provide action for anglers targeting species like flounder and sheepshead. Local guides and charter services play a crucial role in helping anglers navigate Laguna Madre's diverse fishing grounds and tailor their approaches to seasonal variations. Whether fishing from a skiff, kayak, or wading in the shallows, anglers can enjoy a memorable fishing experience amidst the natural beauty and serene waters of Laguna Madre.

What techniques are popular for flats fishing in Laguna Madre?

Flats fishing in Laguna Madre, located along the Texas Gulf Coast, offers anglers a unique and rewarding experience in one of North America's most extensive shallow-water habitats. Known for its clear waters and vast seagrass flats, Laguna Madre attracts anglers year-round seeking a variety of game fish, including redfish, speckled trout, and flounder.

Redfish are a prime target in Laguna Madre, particularly around shallow flats, oyster beds, and grassy areas where they feed on crustaceans and small fish. Anglers often use sight-casting techniques with live or cut bait such as shrimp, mullet, or crab, as well as artificial lures like spoons and soft plastics. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal times to catch redfish, as they are more active during cooler parts of the day.

Speckled trout are another sought-after species in Laguna Madre, commonly found near seagrass beds, sandy bottoms, and tidal channels. Anglers use techniques such as drift-fishing with live shrimp under popping corks, as well as casting soft plastic jigs and topwater lures. Trout are known for their aggressive strikes, especially during tidal movements or when baitfish are plentiful. Adjusting to changes in water clarity and focusing on areas with structure or current breaks can significantly increase catch rates.

Flounder, with their distinctive flat bodies and preference for sandy bottoms and areas with structure, are also prevalent in Laguna Madre. Anglers target them using techniques such as jigging with live or artificial minnows, shrimp, or soft plastic baits that mimic small fish or crustaceans. Fishing around channels, drop-offs, and near docks or piers where flounder lie in wait for passing prey can lead to successful catches. Overall, Laguna Madre provides anglers with a picturesque and productive flats fishing environment, offering opportunities to enjoy the beauty of its natural surroundings while pursuing prized game fish.

What species are popular for flats fishing in Laguna Madre?

Flats fishing in Laguna Madre, located along the Texas Gulf Coast, offers anglers an exceptional opportunity to target a variety of prized fish species in its shallow and pristine waters. One of the most sought-after catches in Laguna Madre is the speckled trout, also known as spotted sea trout. These fish are prized for their acrobatic leaps and delicious white meat. Speckled trout are commonly found in sandy flats, grassy areas, and around oyster beds. Anglers typically use live shrimp, mullet, or artificial lures such as soft plastics and topwater plugs to entice speckled trout, especially during cooler months and periods of tidal movement when they are actively feeding.

Redfish, or red drum, are another prominent species targeted by flats fishing enthusiasts in Laguna Madre. These powerful fish are known for their aggressive strikes and strong fights, making them a favorite among anglers seeking both sport and table fare. Redfish can be found cruising the shallow flats, particularly around mangrove shorelines, oyster bars, and grass beds. Live bait such as shrimp, mullet, or crabs, as well as artificial lures like spoons and soft plastics, are effective in attracting redfish throughout the year. Anglers often encounter schools of redfish during the fall months when they gather in larger numbers to feed.

In addition to speckled trout and redfish, Laguna Madre offers opportunities to catch flounder while flats fishing. Flounder are well-camouflaged bottom dwellers that blend seamlessly with their surroundings, often found near sandy bottoms, oyster reefs, and channels. Anglers typically target flounder using small jigs, live minnows, and shrimp, with peak fishing times occurring during their spring and fall migrations. Flats fishing in Laguna Madre provides anglers with a thrilling and memorable experience amidst its scenic coastal landscape and diverse fishery.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Fished with Nino while down for a bachelor party and had an absolute blast. Many of the guys hadn't fished in a while but Nino showed em the ropes and had high quality tackle and plenty of bait. Put us on a nice flounder and countless specks. Thank Nino, will be back soon! – Jonathan with Captain Experiences

    Jonathan N. | December 9, 2024

    Trip: Tejas Fishing Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Very knowledgeable. Great guy to spend the day with. Caught our limits of fish. Awesome time despite cold wet weather.

    Trenton D. | December 8, 2024

    Trip: Inshore Redfish and Trout

  • ★★★★★
    Doug was a fantastic guide; one of the best we've used. He went above and beyond to ensure we had an enjoyable experience. I highly recommend him.

    Jim C. | November 16, 2024

    Trip: Laguna Madre Half Day

  • ★★★★★
    Ruben was amazing! He knew the areas to go to catch fish, but we got so much more. We saw dolphins swimming, learned more about the area, and caught so many fish! His recommendations for where to take our fish for dinner was also great! We will book another trip with him!

    Stan A. | October 27, 2024

    Trip: Laguna Madre Shallows Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Kyle did a great job! AWESOME TRIP!

    Ron K. | October 24, 2024

    Trip: Corpus Christi Flounder Gigging

  • ★★★★★
    The Captain was wonderful. He helped these two old ladies catch lots of fish. He did the majority of our casting too. Will call on him again. Thank you, Cappy!

    Sandra E. | October 22, 2024

    Trip: Laguna Madre Magic

  • ★★★★★
    Kyle was an awesome flounder gigging guide out of Port Aransas. We had less than ideal weather conditions, but Kyle busted his butt to get us on some fish. We had a great time. We’ll definitely do it again!

    Jimmy M. | October 22, 2024

    Trip: Corpus Christi Flounder Gigging

  • ★★★★★
    Kyle was an excellent guide both me and my wife had a great experience. We caught five fish with one being over 20 inches. We would recommend him to anyone who wants a great time fishing.

    Forrest M. | October 16, 2024

    Trip: Corpus Christi Flounder Gigging

  • ★★★★★
    Captain James was amazing! Several fish and memories caught today! Hope to return next year!

    Diana K. | October 15, 2024

    Trip: South Padre Island Bay Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    We had an amazing time fishing with Captain Cliff in South Padre Island! He was incredibly patient and helpful throughout the trip, ensuring we were comfortable and had a great experience. The boat was spacious and well-maintained, giving us plenty of room to enjoy our time on the water. Captain Cliff was friendly, timely, and took us to some fantastic fishing spots. We highly recommend him for anyone looking for a fun and successful fishing adventure!

    Lance K. | October 7, 2024

    Trip: 5 hour pro flats

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome. Would definitely go again, Captain Kyle kept it action packed the whole time, worth every penny.

    William A. | September 29, 2024

    Trip: Corpus Christi Flounder Gigging

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time fishing with Kevin. He was very friendly and helpful. We caught a lot of fish and had a great time.

    Brian U. | September 15, 2024

    Trip: Baffin / Laguna Madre Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Damn good fishing. really did appreciate the upgrade on the size of boat for as many guys as we had. Every single one of us got at least one keeper.

    Auston O. | August 26, 2024

    Trip: South Padre Island Bay Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Great time! captain experience made booking very easy. Cliff our captain was great!

    John C. | August 3, 2024

    Trip: Family Friendly Fishing Adventures

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Kyle was awesome. We had high winds and water was very dirty but still had a great time.

    Jack I. | August 2, 2024

    Trip: Corpus Christi Flounder Gigging

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time with Shayne! Super knowledgeable dude who takes you to the best spots for the best chances at catching the targeted fish. Boat was super nice and clean. Had some great conversations. 10/10 would go again!

    Trinity J. | July 30, 2024

    Trip: Morning Fishing Trip - 5 hour

  • ★★★★★
    We all had an absolute blast hunting for Flounder with Kyle. Very skilled captain in regards to keeping us in the fish and maintaining good boat position in the shallow water. Everyone that went said was the best part of the vacation and want to go again.

    Chandler H. | July 23, 2024

    Trip: Corpus Christi Flounder Gigging

  • ★★★★★
    Mike knew the bay very well and did his best to put us on fish. I only had two issues with the trip. It might just be his personality, but I found him to be condescending when I asked questions. I also think he fishes too much. It was like we paid to take him fishing.

    Rick M. | July 22, 2024

    Trip: Triple Delight - 3 Person Bay Trip

  • ★★★★★
    My husband and teenager daughter went with Kyle and had an amazing time! They said Kyle truly has a gift for fishing and would recommend him to anyone.

    Avery N. | June 30, 2024

    Trip: Corpus Christi Flounder Gigging

  • ★★★★★
    Shayne was an awesome guide. It was my two teenage boys and me. We moved several spots and caught about 25-30 trout. We had a great time and enjoyed the fishing trip.

    Matt B. | June 29, 2024

    Trip: Morning Fishing Trip - 5 hour

Other Types of Fishing in the Laguna Madre

Other Types of Hunting in the Laguna Madre

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Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick each and every one of them, and our network spans all across the US and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Flats Trips in the Laguna Madre