Damn Good Flats Fishing Charters In San Antonio Bay

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

Choose a Date
5/5 Average Rating

Damn Good Guides

Experts Available 24/7

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Flats Fishing Charters In San Antonio Bay

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter 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, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter 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 Charter in Aransas Pass

Inshore/Flats Fishing Trip

100% (6)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

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

Navigation Trip

100% (2)
23 ft 1 - 8 People From $250
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter 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, Flats Fishing Charter in Rockport

Rockport Reds On The Flats

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $550

Top Types of Flats Trips in San Antonio Bay

Top Species for Flats Fishing in San Antonio 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 Flats Fishing Charters In San Antonio 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
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, Flats Fishing Charter in Rockport

Sight Casting Safari

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

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

Full Day Trip

100% (2)
23 ft 1 - 8 People From $800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in Aransas Pass

Aransas Pass Wade Or Drift

100% (3)
24 ft 1 - 10 People From $575
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Aransas Pass

Aransas Pass Inshore Run

NEW
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
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
See All Flats Trips in San Antonio Bay

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a San Antonio Bay flats fishing charter

What are the best flats fishing charters in San Antonio Bay?

Why should I book a flats fishing charter in San Antonio Bay with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 14 flats trips in San Antonio Bay, and the most popular trips in the area are Tortuga Flats Fishing Fiesta guided by James, Tortuga Flats Fishing Fiesta guided by James, and Inshore/Flats Fishing Trip guided by Travis.

Our guides in San Antonio Bay are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3716 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 San Antonio Bay? Check out our beginner and family friendly flats guides in San Antonio Bay.

What types of flats fishing charters are common in San Antonio Bay?

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

The most common fishing techniques in San Antonio Bay are light tackle fishing, live bait fishing, and artificial lure fishing but cut bait fishing and bottom fishing are popular as well.

How much do San Antonio Bay flats fishing charters cost?

Prices for flats fishing in San Antonio Bay can range anywhere from about $550 to $1,550, but the average price for a half day trip for flats fishing in San Antonio Bay is $858. The average price for a full day trip for flats fishing in San Antonio Bay is $994.

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 San Antonio Bay?

The most popular season for flats fishing in San Antonio Bay is summer, and most anglers book their trips 19 days in advance.

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

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

What is flats fishing in San Antonio Bay all about?

Flats fishing in San Antonio Bay, situated along the Texas Gulf Coast, provides anglers with a thrilling and immersive fishing experience in shallow, expansive waters rich with marine life. Known for its vast seagrass flats, sandbars, and tidal channels, San Antonio Bay offers prime habitat for a variety of prized game fish species. Anglers can target redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and black drum, among others, making it a versatile destination for both novice anglers and seasoned fishing enthusiasts alike. The bay's tranquil waters and scenic vistas create an ideal setting for flats fishing, where anglers can enjoy casting lines amidst the beauty of the Texas coastal landscape.

Flats fishing in San Antonio Bay typically involves sight fishing, where anglers spot fish cruising or feeding in the clear, shallow waters. This style of fishing requires stealth and precision in casting to present lures or baits effectively to targeted fish species. Whether fishing from a shallow-draft skiff, kayak, or wading in the shallows, anglers can explore the bay's intricate network of flats and channels, adjusting their approach based on tidal movements and seasonal fish behavior. The bay's proximity to nearby estuaries and marshlands further enhances its appeal, providing diverse fishing opportunities throughout the year.

For anglers planning a flats fishing excursion to San Antonio Bay, local guides and outfitters offer valuable knowledge of the bay's fishing hotspots, optimal techniques, and equipment rentals to ensure a successful outing. These experienced guides can navigate the bay's shallow waters and provide insights into tidal patterns and fish movements, maximizing opportunities to hook into trophy-sized catches. Whether seeking solitude on the water or sharing the excitement with friends and family, flats fishing in San Antonio Bay promises an unforgettable adventure amid the natural beauty and abundant marine diversity of the Texas Gulf Coast.

What are the most popular months to go flats fishing in San Antonio Bay?

Flats fishing in San Antonio Bay, located along the Texas Gulf Coast, offers anglers a captivating experience throughout the year, with each season bringing unique challenges and opportunities. This bay is renowned for its expansive flats, abundant seagrass beds, and diverse fish species, making it a prime destination for anglers targeting redfish, speckled trout, and flounder.

During the spring months, from March to May, San Antonio Bay experiences optimal fishing conditions as water temperatures rise and fish become more active. This period marks the peak of spawning activity for redfish and speckled trout, drawing anglers eager to capitalize on their movements in shallow waters. Techniques such as sight-casting with artificial lures such as soft plastics, spoons, and topwater plugs are effective. Anglers often target edges of grass beds, oyster reefs, and tidal flats where these fish congregate to feed.

Summer, from June to August, brings warmer temperatures and influences fish behavior in San Antonio Bay. While flats fishing remains productive, particularly during cooler parts of the day or during tidal movements, fish such as redfish and speckled trout may seek cooler waters or move to slightly deeper areas. Anglers adjust their strategies by focusing on early mornings or late evenings when fish are more active, using stealthy approaches to avoid spooking them. Techniques such as jigging with soft plastics, live bait presentations, and targeting deeper potholes or channels within the flats can yield successful catches during this season.

In the fall, from September to November, San Antonio Bay experiences a transition period as temperatures begin to cool down. This time offers excellent flats fishing opportunities as redfish and speckled trout become more active again. Anglers often find success around tidal creeks, sandbars, and shallow flats where baitfish are abundant. Techniques such as fly fishing with shrimp or crab patterns, casting soft plastics, or using live baitfish can be highly effective. As the season progresses, anglers can enjoy the scenic beauty and diverse fishery that San Antonio Bay's flats offer, providing memorable fishing experiences amidst the Texas coastal landscape.

What techniques are popular for flats fishing in San Antonio Bay?

Flats fishing in San Antonio Bay, located along the Texas Gulf Coast, presents anglers with a variety of opportunities to target diverse fish species amidst its shallow, expansive flats and intricate network of channels. One of the primary targets for anglers in San Antonio Bay is speckled trout, prized for their aggressive strikes and delicious meat. Anglers commonly employ techniques such as drift fishing with live shrimp under popping corks or using soft plastics on jig heads. Targeting grass beds, oyster reefs, and deeper channels during tidal changes can increase the chances of landing a successful catch, especially during cooler months when trout are more active.

Redfish are another sought-after species in San Antonio Bay, known for their strength and spirited fights. Anglers often use sight-casting techniques, scanning the clear waters for the telltale signs of redfish tails or wakes as they hunt for prey in the shallows. Using artificial lures such as spoons, soft plastics, or topwater plugs allows for precise presentations to these wary fish. Alternatively, fishing with live or cut bait like mullet, shrimp, or crabs near marsh edges and submerged structures can also yield excellent results, particularly during high tide periods.

For anglers looking to target other species, such as flounder and black drum, fishing around channels, shell beds, and structure-rich areas like docks and pilings can be productive. Techniques such as bottom fishing with Carolina rigs or jigging with soft plastics and live baits can attract these bottom-dwelling fish. Patience and adjusting tactics according to water conditions, tidal movements, and seasonal patterns are essential for maximizing success in flats fishing adventures in San Antonio Bay. Understanding local regulations and conservation practices also ensures sustainable enjoyment of this diverse and vibrant fishing environment.

What species are popular for flats fishing in San Antonio Bay?

Flats fishing in San Antonio Bay, located along the Texas Gulf Coast near Rockport and Port Aransas, offers anglers an excellent opportunity to target a variety of prized fish species in its shallow and expansive flats. One of the most popular catches in San Antonio Bay is the redfish, also known as red drum. These powerful fish are abundant in the bay's shallow waters, particularly around grassy flats, oyster beds, and mangrove shorelines. Redfish are known for their aggressive strikes and strong fights, making them a favorite among anglers pursuing trophy catches. Live shrimp, mullet, or crabs are effective baits for redfish, as well as artificial lures like spoons and soft plastics.

Speckled trout, or spotted sea trout, are another highly sought-after species in San Antonio Bay. These fish are prized for their acrobatic leaps and delicious meat, commonly found in sandy or grassy flats. Speckled trout fishing is particularly productive during cooler months and early mornings when they are actively feeding. Anglers often use live shrimp, mullet, or artificial lures such as topwater plugs and swimbaits to entice speckled trout in the bay's productive waters.

In addition to redfish and speckled trout, San Antonio Bay offers opportunities to catch flounder while flats fishing. Flounder are well-camouflaged bottom dwellers found near sandy bottoms, oyster reefs, and other structure-rich areas. Anglers typically target flounder using small jigs, live minnows, and shrimp, especially during their spring and fall migrations when they move through the bay in search of food and spawning grounds. Flats fishing in San Antonio Bay provides anglers with a thrilling and rewarding experience amidst its scenic coastal environment and diverse fishery.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    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

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

    Bradley H. | May 15, 2024

    Trip: Inshore/Flats Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Travis is great! Easy going. Super knowledgeable. A+. Would def book him again.

    Clay S. | March 15, 2024

    Trip: Sight Casting Safari

  • ★★★★★
    This was our first time fishing in the intercoastal. We had a great time fishing with James. He put us on fish at the first stop and moved us on to the next spot as soon as the action slowed down. He provided quality live bait and showed us effective techniques. He took care of baiting, netting our catch and otherwise took great care of us. James was jovial, easy-going and incredibly patient with us. We had a blast.

    Russ S. | July 23, 2023

    Trip: Tortuga Flats Fishing Fiesta

  • ★★★★★
    The fishing expedition with James in the bay waters of Port Aransas was great. A wonderful time spent for a father and son here on vacation. Look forward to doing this again.

    Randal P. | July 10, 2023

    Trip: Tortuga Flats Fishing Fiesta

  • ★★★★★
    James was a great Captain for our half day morning adventure! He was able to accommodate the entire group finding us a second guide. We are very appreciative for him and his partner getting us out on the water on such a busy weekend.

    Angel P. | June 20, 2023

    Trip: Tortuga Flats Fishing Fiesta

  • ★★★★★
    The boys had a good time, they mentioned it was right after a large tournament so it was a little slow on the fishing but they had a good time .

    Gustavo V. | May 22, 2023

    Trip: Aransas Pass Wade or Drift

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Capt. Randy was fantastic. He put us on some great fish while others were striking out.

    Andrew M. | June 10, 2022

    Trip: Aransas Pass Wade or Drift

Other Types of Fishing in San Antonio Bay

Other Types of Hunting in San Antonio 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 Flats Trips in San Antonio Bay