Damn Good Inshore Fishing Charters In Mesquite Bay

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Mesquite Bay inshore fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

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Recently Booked Inshore Fishing Charters In Mesquite Bay

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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing in Aransas Pass

Flats And Backwaters On Artificials

97% (36)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore 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 Aransas Pass

Inshore/Flats Fishing Trip

100% (8)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats in Port Aransas

Tortuga Flats Fishing Fiesta

100% (6)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing in Rockport

Bay Bounty

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing in Rockport

Rockport Trout Redfish And Black Drum

100% (1)
22 ft 1 - 10 People From $800

Top Types of Inshore Trips in Mesquite Bay

Top Species for Inshore Fishing in Mesquite 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

More Inshore Fishing Charters In Mesquite Bay

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing in Aransas Pass

Wade Fishing Artificial ONLY Trip

100% (8)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing in Aransas Pass

Backwaters Catch And Release

97% (36)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing in Rockport

Rockport Wade Fishing W/ Artificial

100% (1)
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing in Rockport

Rockport Bay Fishing Trip

100% (3)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats in Seadrift

Tortuga Flats Fishing Fiesta

100% (6)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, Flats in Aransas Pass

Aransas Pass Wade Or Drift

100% (3)
24 ft 1 - 10 People From $575
See All Inshore Trips in Mesquite Bay

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Everything to Know About Booking a Mesquite Bay inshore fishing charter

What are the best inshore fishing charters in Mesquite Bay?

Why should I book an inshore fishing charter in Mesquite Bay with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 14 inshore trips in Mesquite Bay, and the most popular trips in the area are Flats and Backwaters on Artificials guided by Larry, Redfish on the Fly guided by Gibson, and Inshore/Flats Fishing Trip guided by Travis.

Our guides in Mesquite Bay are rated a 4.9 out of 5 based on 3784 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 inshore guides / fishing lessons in Mesquite Bay? Check out our beginner and family friendly inshore guides in Mesquite Bay.

What types of inshore fishing charters are common in Mesquite Bay?

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

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

How much do Mesquite Bay inshore fishing charters cost?

Prices for inshore fishing in Mesquite Bay can range anywhere from about $500 to $1,575, but the average price for a half day trip for inshore fishing in Mesquite Bay is $820. The average price for a full day trip for inshore fishing in Mesquite Bay is $954.

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 inshore fishing in Mesquite Bay?

The most popular season for inshore fishing in Mesquite Bay is summer, and most anglers book their trips 22 days in advance.

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

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

What is inshore fishing in Mesquite Bay all about?

Inshore fishing in Mesquite Bay, located along the Texas Gulf Coast, provides anglers with a rich opportunity to explore diverse habitats and pursue a variety of coastal fish species. This bay is known for its shallow flats, marshy shorelines, and oyster reefs, which create prime feeding grounds for numerous fish. One of the most sought-after catches in Mesquite Bay is the Speckled Trout, also known as Spotted Seatrout. These fish are abundant year-round, with peak seasons in the cooler months. Anglers often target Speckled Trout using live shrimp under popping corks, soft plastic lures, or topwater plugs, particularly near grass beds and tidal creeks where these fish tend to congregate.

Redfish are another prized species found in Mesquite Bay, known for their strength and aggressive strikes. These fish frequent shallow waters near oyster bars, mangrove shorelines, and tidal flats. Anglers target Redfish using live bait such as mullet and crabs, as well as artificial lures like spoons and soft plastics. Sight-casting for Redfish in the clear, shallow waters of Mesquite Bay can be especially rewarding, offering anglers a chance to test their skills against these powerful fish.

Flounder are also plentiful in Mesquite Bay, particularly during their migration periods in the spring and fall. These bottom-dwelling fish are often found near sandy bottoms, around structure, and along channel edges. Anglers targeting Flounder use live bait such as mud minnows, finger mullet, or artificial jigs bounced along the bottom to entice strikes. The combination of accessible fishing spots and abundant fish populations makes Mesquite Bay a favored destination for inshore anglers looking to enjoy a day on the water and potentially land a memorable catch.

What are the most popular months to go inshore fishing in Mesquite Bay?

Inshore fishing in Mesquite Bay, situated along the Texas Gulf Coast, presents anglers with a variety of seasonal opportunities to pursue prized game fish. Spring kicks off the fishing season as temperatures warm and fish become more active. Speckled Trout are a primary target during this time, often found around oyster reefs, grass flats, and deeper channels where they feed on shrimp and small baitfish. Anglers typically use live bait such as shrimp or mullet, as well as artificial lures like soft plastics and topwater plugs, to entice these agile and tasty fish. Redfish also become more abundant, offering exciting sight fishing opportunities along marshy shorelines and tidal creeks.

Summer in Mesquite Bay brings warmer waters and a shift in fishing tactics. Early mornings and late evenings are favored times for fishing as temperatures rise during the day. Redfish continue to be a popular target, particularly around mangrove islands and shallow flats where they hunt for crabs and small fish. Anglers often use live bait such as mullet or cut bait, as well as artificial lures like spoons and spinnerbaits, to target these powerful fish. Speckled Trout fishing remains productive, with fish still active in deeper channels and along drop-offs. The summer months provide ample opportunities for anglers to explore the bay's diverse habitats and adapt their techniques to the seasonal movements of the fish.

Fall ushers in a season of change in Mesquite Bay, characterized by cooler temperatures and changing fish behavior. Speckled Trout remain a staple catch, continuing to inhabit grassy flats and deeper channels. Redfish schools grow larger as they move into shallower waters to feed voraciously before winter, offering anglers plentiful opportunities for sight casting. Flounder also become more active during their migration, making fall an excellent time to target these flatfish along sandy bottoms and near inlet mouths. Overall, fall provides varied fishing opportunities amidst comfortable weather and scenic coastal landscapes in Mesquite Bay.

What techniques are popular for inshore fishing in Mesquite Bay?

Inshore fishing in Mesquite Bay, located on the Texas Gulf Coast, offers anglers a wealth of opportunities to target a variety of species amidst its expansive waters. One popular technique here is drift fishing. Anglers drift along channels, flats, and oyster reefs while using live bait such as shrimp or mullet to entice strikes from Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Flounder. This method allows anglers to cover a large area efficiently and adjust their tactics based on tidal movements and fish activity, making it a versatile choice throughout the year.

Another effective technique in Mesquite Bay is kayak fishing. Anglers can launch kayaks from accessible points along the bay's shoreline and navigate through shallow flats, grass beds, and marshy areas where fish congregate. Kayaks provide anglers with the stealth necessary to approach wary fish and present artificial lures like soft plastics, topwater plugs, or flies tailored to mimic local baitfish and shrimp. This method not only enhances the fishing experience but also allows anglers to explore remote areas that larger boats cannot access.

For those seeking a more traditional approach, anchoring near structure such as rock piles, shell reefs, or bridge pilings is a favored technique in Mesquite Bay. Anglers can use bottom rigs or live bait setups to target species like Sheepshead, Mangrove Snapper, and Black Drum. This method is particularly effective during tidal changes or when fish are actively feeding near structure, providing anglers with opportunities to land a variety of inshore species while enjoying the scenic beauty of Mesquite Bay's coastal environment.

What species are popular for inshore fishing in Mesquite Bay?

Inshore fishing in Mesquite Bay, situated along the Texas Gulf Coast, presents anglers with a diverse range of species to pursue year-round. One of the most prized catches in these brackish waters is the Redfish, or Red Drum. These powerful fish are known for their bronze coloration and hard-hitting strikes. Redfish can be found throughout Mesquite Bay, particularly near marshy shorelines, oyster reefs, and shallow flats where they feed on crustaceans and small fish. They are active year-round, with peak fishing typically in late summer and fall. Anglers often use live baits like shrimp or mullet, as well as artificial lures such as spoons and soft plastics, to entice these prized game fish.

Speckled Trout, or Spotted Seatrout, are another popular species in Mesquite Bay. These fish are plentiful and provide exciting angling opportunities, especially during cooler months when they gather in deeper channels and around structure such as docks and submerged vegetation. Speckled Trout are known for their distinctive spots and voracious feeding habits, making them responsive to live baits such as shrimp or pinfish, as well as artificial lures like jerkbaits and topwater plugs. Their spirited fights and delicious flesh make them a favorite target among inshore anglers exploring the diverse habitats of Mesquite Bay.

Flounder are also abundant in Mesquite Bay and are highly sought after for their delicate, flavorful meat. These flatfish inhabit sandy bottoms, channels, and areas with structure where they lie in wait for passing prey. Flounder fishing is particularly productive during their seasonal migrations in spring and fall. Anglers commonly use live bait such as mullet or mud minnows, as well as artificial lures like jigs and soft plastics, to entice these ambush predators. Fishing for flounder in Mesquite Bay offers a relaxing and rewarding experience, with the chance to reel in a tasty catch while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Texas Gulf Coast.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Travis did great getting us into some fish and showing us the ropes of wade fishing. Would definitely recommend him!

    Casey L. | December 2, 2024

    Trip: Inshore/Flats Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Travis did a great job. Very knowledgeable. Would definitely recommend him.

    Alex B. | November 24, 2024

    Trip: Inshore/Flats Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time. Gibson was an excellent guide…very knowledgeable…we learned a lot. Plus, you could tell he wanted us to have a good time and we did.

    Jeff B. | November 19, 2024

    Trip: Redfish on the Fly

  • ★★★★★
    Randy was great. He put us onto fish on a day when no one was catching. He was very knowledable and we had a great time.

    Matthew S. | November 14, 2024

    Trip: Aransas Pass Wade or Drift

  • ★★★★★
    James did an excellent job. The fishing was very slow during the day but he kept us moving in an effort to find them which we eventually did. Both of us ended the day with our limits. Easy to talk too. Very knowledgeable. Would definitely recommend him to anyone and I’m planing to go with him again next time.

    Jason H. | July 20, 2024

    Trip: Tortuga Flats Fishing Fiesta

  • ★★★★★
    Larry is a true professional, has Excellent knowledge that he freely shared throughout the trip. He took good care of us. We plan to be repeat customers.

    Andrew S. | June 23, 2024

    Trip: Backwaters Catch and Release

  • ★★★★★
    Great day with a guide I highly recommend. Five stars

    Bill H. | June 14, 2024

    Trip: Flats and Backwaters on Artificials

  • ★★★★★
    Great, hard working guy with tons of knowledge. Great trip. Learned tons. Ill be booking again ASAP!

    Mike C. | June 12, 2024

    Trip: Flats and Backwaters on Artificials

  • ★★★★★
    Great guide, great trip!

    Eric P. | June 5, 2024

    Trip: Flats and Backwaters on Artificials

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great Trip out on the water with Larry and highly recommend this fishing guide to anyone who is interested in backwater fishing with artificial lures and light tackle.

    William L. | June 5, 2024

    Trip: Flats and Backwaters on Artificials

  • ★★★★★
    James was very professional and detailed on everything. Great time and awesome guide. Will be booking again with James.

    Barry B. | June 1, 2024

    Trip: Tortuga Flats Fishing Fiesta

  • ★★★★★
    James was awesome! He had us a 3 man limit on trout in the first hour on the water. Fishing conditions were amazing though so that really helped! He was extremely knowledgeable in his trade as a fishing guide and extremely fun to hang out with! We will definitely be getting with James again in the near future for another trip!

    Kyle A. | May 30, 2024

    Trip: Tortuga Flats Fishing Fiesta

  • ★★★★★
    Great love the dog

    Mark T. | May 26, 2024

    Trip: Flats and Backwaters on Artificials

  • ★★★★★
    Travis is the expert I have been lookin for around Aransas pass for years. Conditions did not play to our favor, yet he still put us on fish. Fountain of knowledge when it comes to targeting and developing a pattern in the flats. I will fish with Travis as long as hes in business 🤙🏼

    Derek M. | May 16, 2024

    Trip: Wade Fishing Artificial ONLY Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Great time fishing with Travis! He'll find the fish for you!

    Bradley H. | May 15, 2024

    Trip: Inshore/Flats Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great trip. Conditions weren't ideal but Jason managed to find fish for us and keep it interesting. Highly recommend.

    James B. | March 24, 2024

    Trip: Reel Fun Bay and Flats Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Larry is the man! Great at teaching the “why” of fishing and helping you learn some new tips and tricks. It doesn’t hurt that we caught a ton of redfish and trout as well. If you want to catch fish on artificials, this is your guy.

    Attison B. | December 2, 2023

    Trip: Flats and Backwaters on Artificials

  • ★★★★★
    Went out with Cpt. Jeff's guide Cpt. Gibson. Had an absolute blast. Couldn't recommend this group enough. Put us on some great fish and Cpt. Gibson had a great attitude. You won't be disappointed. First time using Captain Experience's and was very impressed with their communication and responsiveness. Will definitely book with them again.

    Baker W. | October 26, 2023

    Trip: Redfish on the Fly

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great trip Captain Jason Molitr! He has a great attitude and he strives to make sure he takes care of his customers.

    Kenneth A. | September 4, 2023

    Trip: Reel Fun Bay and Flats Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Super fun trip, caught lots of fish and got to learn all about the area and different types of fish from the guide

    Ryan S. | July 25, 2023

    Trip: Flats and Backwaters on Artificials

Other Types of Fishing in Mesquite Bay

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See All Inshore Trips in Mesquite Bay