Damn Good Matagorda Bay Fishing Charters

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Matagorda Bay fishing trips. Inshore, Flats, Jetty, Nearshore, and River trips available.

Choose a Date
Choose a Trip Type
4.71/5 Average Rating

Damn Good Guides

Experts Available 24/7

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Fishing Charters In Matagorda Bay

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in Matagorda

Matagorda E/W Bay Half Day

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 10 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Duck Fishing, Hunting Charter in Port O'Connor

Matagorda Bay Cast And Blast

100% (1)
21 ft 1 - 6 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Matagorda

Gator Trout Trip

NEW
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $765
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Port O'Connor

Full Day Or Half-day Fishing Trip

100% (1)
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter 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 Charter in Galveston

Matagorda Bay: Wade Fishing Trip

NEW
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $550

Top Types of Trips in Matagorda Bay

Top Species for Fishing in Matagorda Bay

“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.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Inshore Fishing Charters In Matagorda Bay

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Port O'Connor

Port O'Connor Bay Trip

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in Port O'Connor

Bay And Jetty Fishing

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Rockport

Port O'Connor Big 3 Slam

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Port O'Connor

Port O'Connor Inshore Fishing

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $625
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Matagorda

Gator Trout Trip

NEW
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $765
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Port O'Connor

Matagorda Bay Shallows

100% (1)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $600

Flats Fishing Charters In Matagorda Bay

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Rockport

Port O'Connor Big 3 Slam

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Port O'Connor

Full Day Or Half-day Fishing Trip

100% (1)
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Matagorda

Gator Trout Trip

NEW
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $765
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, River, Flats Fishing Charter in Matagorda

Half Day Trip - Bay

67% (3)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in Port O'Connor

Bay And Jetty Fishing

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Port O'Connor

Port O'Connor "Texas Triple"

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $550

Jetty Fishing Charters In Matagorda Bay

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Port O'Connor

Port O'Connor Fishing Experience

NEW
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in Galveston

Galveston Bay Trophy Trout

100% (2)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in Port O'Connor

Bay And Jetty Fishing

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Port O'Connor

Matagorda Bay & Beyond

NEW
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $575
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in Port O'Connor

1/2 Day AM

100% (2)
23 ft 1 - 8 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, River, Flats Fishing Charter in Matagorda

Half Day Trip - Bay

67% (3)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $650

More Fishing Charters In Matagorda Bay

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Galveston

Matagorda Bay: Drift Fishing Trip

NEW
21 ft 1 - 3 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, River, Flats Fishing Charter in Matagorda

Half Day Trip - Bay

67% (3)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Wharton

Full Day Fishing - 25’ Dargle

67% (3)
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Matagorda

Your Fly Fishing Guide & Instructor

100% (1)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $600
Bucket List
The Captain Experiences team chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter in Matagorda

Full Day Fishing With Overnight Lodging

NEW
22 ft 1 - 42 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Matagorda

Matagorda Bay Catch And Release

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
See All Trips in Matagorda Bay

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Matagorda Bay

What are the best fishing charters in Matagorda Bay?

Why should I book a fishing charter in Matagorda Bay with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 41 trips in Matagorda Bay, and the most popular trips in the area are Matagorda E/W Bay Half Day guided by Jeff, Matagorda Bay Cast and Blast guided by Brandon, and 1/2 Day AM guided by Doug.

Our guides in Matagorda Bay are rated a 4.71 out of 5 based on 3711 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 charters / fishing lessons in Matagorda Bay? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Matagorda Bay.

What types of fishing charters are common in Matagorda Bay?

Inshore fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Matagorda Bay as well as flats fishing, jetty fishing, and nearshore fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Matagorda Bay are: 1. redfish, 2. black drum, 3. speckled trout, 4. flounder, and 5. sheepshead.

The most common fishing techniques in Matagorda Bay are light tackle fishing, artificial lure fishing, and wading but live bait fishing and drift fishing are popular as well.

How much do Matagorda Bay fishing charters cost?

Prices in Matagorda Bay can range anywhere from about $550 to $13,520, but the average price for a half day trip in Matagorda Bay is $769. The average price for a full day trip in Matagorda Bay is $5,668.

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 fishing in Matagorda Bay?

The most popular season for fishing in Matagorda Bay is summer, and most anglers book their trips 15 days in advance.

Do I need a Matagorda Bay fishing license and what are the bag limits in Matagorda Bay?

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

What is fishing in Matagorda Bay about?

Fishing in Matagorda Bay, located on the Texas Gulf Coast, is an experience cherished by anglers for its diverse ecosystem and abundant marine life. Stretching over 50 miles along the coast, Matagorda Bay offers a wealth of fishing opportunities, from the expansive flats and marshes to the deeper channels and jetties. Whether you're targeting trophy-sized redfish, speckled trout, or flounder, the bay's rich waters provide anglers with ample chances to reel in their next big catch.

One of the main attractions of fishing in Matagorda Bay is the opportunity to pursue trophy-sized redfish, known locally as "bull reds." These hard-fighting fish patrol the bay's shallow waters and can be found feeding along the grassy flats and around the numerous oyster reefs. Anglers often target bull reds with live bait such as mullet or shrimp, although artificial lures like spoons and soft plastics can also be effective. Whether you're casting from the shore or drifting in a boat, hooking into one of these powerful fish is sure to provide an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Speckled trout are another prized species in Matagorda Bay, valued for their sporting qualities and delicious flesh. These voracious predators can be found in the bay's deeper channels, as well as along the grassy shorelines and around submerged structure. Anglers typically target speckled trout with live bait such as shrimp or mullet, although artificial lures like soft plastics and topwater plugs can also be effective. Whether you're fishing from the shore or exploring the bay by boat, targeting speckled trout in Matagorda Bay offers a fun and rewarding angling experience for all.

What are the most popular months to fish in Matagorda Bay?

Fishing seasons in Matagorda Bay, Texas, offer anglers a dynamic and ever-changing array of opportunities throughout the year. Spring marks the beginning of prime fishing season, as warmer temperatures trigger the activity of numerous species in the bay's waters. Anglers can target trophy-sized redfish, speckled trout, and flounder as they migrate into the shallows to feed and spawn. Additionally, spring is a popular time for targeting bull redfish, which congregate in large numbers around the bay's numerous oyster reefs and grassy flats.

Summer brings with it the height of fishing action in Matagorda Bay, as long days and balmy temperatures create ideal conditions for anglers to hit the water. In addition to redfish, speckled trout, and flounder, anglers can also target a variety of other species like black drum, sheepshead, and Spanish mackerel. Whether you're fishing from the shore, exploring the bay by boat, or wading the shallow flats, summer offers endless possibilities for anglers to experience the excitement of fishing in Matagorda Bay.

As summer transitions into fall, fishing in Matagorda Bay takes on a new dimension as cooler temperatures trigger changes in fish behavior and migration patterns. Inshore, redfish, speckled trout, and flounder remain active, providing anglers with continued opportunities to hook into these prized gamefish. Additionally, fall marks the start of the annual bull redfish run, as large schools of mature redfish migrate along the coast in search of spawning grounds. Whether you're casting from the shore or exploring the bay by kayak, fall offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels in Matagorda Bay.

What types of fishing are popular in Matagorda Bay?

Matagorda Bay, nestled along the Texas Gulf Coast, offers anglers a wide array of fishing techniques and environments to explore. Inshore fishing is a popular choice, with the bay's extensive network of flats, marshes, and channels providing habitat for a variety of species. Anglers can target trophy-sized redfish, speckled trout, and flounder using live bait, artificial lures, or fly-fishing techniques. Whether you're casting from the shore, wading in the shallows, or drifting along the channels in a boat, inshore fishing in Matagorda Bay promises excitement and adventure against the backdrop of its scenic coastal landscape.

For those seeking a deeper challenge, offshore fishing provides access to the deeper waters of the Gulf of Mexico, just a short boat ride away from Matagorda Bay. Anglers can target a variety of pelagic species like kingfish, mahi-mahi, and tuna, as well as bottom-dwelling fish such as snapper and grouper. Whether you're trolling offshore for big game species or dropping bait over wrecks and reefs, offshore fishing in Matagorda Bay promises an adrenaline-pumping adventure and the opportunity to hook into some trophy-sized catches.

Additionally, surf fishing along the nearby beaches and jetties is a popular option for anglers in Matagorda Bay. From the sandy shores, anglers can cast their lines into the surf in pursuit of species like pompano, whiting, and Spanish mackerel. Whether you're soaking bait on the bottom or casting lures into the breaking waves, surf fishing offers a laid-back and scenic way to enjoy the coastal beauty of Matagorda Bay while waiting for the next big bite.

What species are popular in Matagorda Bay?

Matagorda Bay, located on the Texas Gulf Coast, offers a diverse and rewarding fishing experience for anglers. One of the most popular species to target in these waters is the redfish, or red drum. Known for their strong fight and delicious taste, redfish can be caught year-round, but are particularly abundant in the fall when they gather in large schools. Anglers often find success using live bait such as shrimp or mullet, as well as artificial lures like soft plastics and topwater plugs.

Another prized species in Matagorda Bay is the speckled trout, or spotted seatrout. These fish are highly sought after for both sport and their delicate, flavorful meat. Speckled trout are typically found in grassy flats, around oyster reefs, and near drop-offs. The best times to fish for them are during the early morning and late evening hours. Anglers often use live shrimp under a popping cork or soft plastic lures to entice these fish. Spring and summer are particularly good seasons for trout fishing in the bay.

Flounder is also a popular target in Matagorda Bay, especially during their migration in the fall. These flatfish are known for their unique ability to camouflage themselves on the bay floor, making them a challenging but rewarding catch. Anglers often use finger mullet or mud minnows as live bait, and fishing around structures like piers, docks, and marsh edges can be particularly effective. With their mild, sweet flavor, flounder are a favorite among anglers both for the challenge they present and the quality of the meal they provide.

Does Matagorda Bay have good fishing?

Matagorda Bay, nestled along the Texas Gulf Coast, is renowned among anglers for its diverse and abundant fishing opportunities. Spanning over 50 miles of coastline, this expansive bay system offers a rich habitat for various fish species year-round. Anglers flock to Matagorda Bay for its prime conditions, which cater to both novice and seasoned fishing enthusiasts alike. Whether targeting prized catches like speckled trout, redfish, flounder, or sheepshead, the bay's extensive network of channels, flats, and marshy areas provides ample opportunities for successful outings.

The bay's unique geography contributes significantly to its appeal. Its mix of shallow flats and deeper channels creates ideal conditions for both wading and boat fishing. During different seasons, anglers can adjust their techniques to maximize their chances of landing a big catch. Matagorda Bay's accessibility adds to its allure, with numerous launch points and fishing piers dotting its coastline, catering to various fishing preferences and styles. Whether casting from the shore or navigating its waters by boat, anglers can find productive spots throughout the bay, making it a favored destination among Texas coastal fishing spots.

Beyond its fishing prospects, Matagorda Bay offers a picturesque backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. The serene waters and expansive horizons provide a tranquil setting for anglers seeking not just a catch but a memorable experience in nature. Whether planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, Matagorda Bay's combination of natural beauty and abundant marine life ensures that every fishing expedition holds the promise of adventure and relaxation amidst Texas' coastal charm.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Best guided hunt I’ve been on. Brandon will get you on the birds. Dam good guide , looking forward to another trip with Brandon.

    Jonathan S. | November 16, 2024

    Trip: Matagorda Bay Duck Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Capt. Jeff put us on some fish!! Took us to a few places that each produced. I’d definitely go fishing with Jeff in the future.

    Saul M. | October 28, 2024

    Trip: Matagorda E/W Bay Half Day

  • ★★★★★
    Joe was extremely knowledgeable about spots to hit. Even when other captains weren’t catching anything, he found a way to get us to spots where we, not only caught 3 large redfish, but quite a bit of other fish. The tour was extremely enjoyable and a lot of fun. I would highly recommend Joe. A Great a time!!

    Marche W. | August 28, 2024

    Trip: Half day trip - Bay

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Ron was very pleasant and worked hard to put us on fish. Unfortunately, the fish were hard to come by today. Tough weather conditions made for a challenging day. I would like to go out with him again.

    Tom W. | March 31, 2024

    Trip: Your Fly Fishing Guide & Instructor

  • ★★★★★
    Doug is a phenomenal guide! He quickly made us feel like family. Fishing was supposed to be hard, but everywhere he took us, we caught fish. The only problem we had was he helped the women catch the biggest catch LOL! Thank you for a great time!

    Rodney J. | March 24, 2024

    Trip: 1/2 Day PM

  • ★★★★★
    Terry was by far the best guide we’ve had in Matagorda! It’s obvious he knows the bay & where the fish are, in addition to being very personable and attentive to our team. A++++

    Julia B. | October 8, 2023

    Trip: Full Day Fishing - 25’ Dargle

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome trip with Captain Collin. He put us on the fish!

    Thomas D. | August 10, 2023

    Trip: Port O'Connor Inshore Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Capt Jon was great! He agreed to go out, even though it was so windy and cold and made sure we had a fun time, even if we didn’t expect to have much luck given the conditions. We were victorious over the gulls however and got several great fish!

    Elizabeth S. | November 16, 2022

    Trip: Full Day or Half-day Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Our best Red day ever. Capt Doug was awesome. Thank you

    Preston M. | September 26, 2022

    Trip: 1/2 Day AM

  • ★★★★★
    I had an absolute blast going out with Captain Kevin. He was very knowledgeable and is guaranteed to give you a great, memorable fishing experience. I definitely plan on booking as many trips with him as I possible can!

    Erik P. | June 11, 2022

    Trip: Galveston Bay Trophy Trout

  • ★★★★★
    Great guide on a very slow day he got us on fish. None of them were keepers but that’s not Captain Stans fault

    Don D. | May 17, 2022

    Trip: Matagorda Bay Catch and Release

  • ★★★★★
    Amazing experience! Captain Chad drove 50 miles to the next city just so we’d have good live bait for our trip. With that being said we caught 40 fish and 20 keepers. Even managed to get on some Reds in late January weather. We will definitely be booking another trip with Captain “Chappy”. If you’re looking to catch fish in a relaxed setting with someone who knows there stuff, look No Further.

    Chris R. | January 27, 2022

    Trip: Matagorda Fishing Adventures

  • ★★★★★
    Good experience learned a lot . Did not catch any fish but enjoyed the company.

    Gavin B. | August 19, 2020

    Trip: Bay and Jetty Fishing

Top Fishing Techniques in Matagorda Bay

Top Hunting Techniques in Matagorda Bay

  • Calling
  • Decoy Hunting
  • Hunting With Dogs
  • Hunting from a Blind
  • Shotgun Hunting

Top Types of Fishing in Matagorda Bay

Top Types of Hunting in Matagorda Bay

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

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 Trips in Matagorda Bay