Damn Good South Padre Island Fishing Charters

Check real-time availability and compare rates on South Padre Island fishing trips. Deep Sea, Inshore, Flats, Jetty, and Nearshore trips available.

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Recently Booked Fishing Charters In South Padre Island

Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

South Padre Island Fishing 4 Hrs

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

Deep Sea, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

Bottom Fishing And Jigging SPI

NEW
33 ft 1 - 12 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Bottom Fishing And Jigging SPI

NEW
33 ft 1 - 12 People From $650
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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 South Padre Island

Private Snook Fishing Trip

100% (9)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $575
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

SpaceX Rocket Launch

100% (1)
26 ft 1 - 12 People From $700
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

South Padre Island Dolphin Tour

100% (1)
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $300

Top Types of Trips in South Padre Island

Top Species for Fishing in South Padre Island

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More Fishing Charters In South Padre Island

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Bay Fishing

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24 ft 1 - 8 People From $600
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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 Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Triple Delight - 3 Person Bay Trip

100% (9)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $525
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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 South Padre Island

Half Day Private Bay Fishing Trip

100% (9)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $525
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

South Padre Island Dolphin Tour

100% (1)
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $300
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

SpaceX Rocket Launch

100% (1)
26 ft 1 - 12 People From $700
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 South Padre Island

Private Snook Fishing Trip

100% (9)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $575
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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

What are the best fishing charters in South Padre Island?

Why should I book a fishing charter in South Padre Island with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 13 trips in South Padre Island, and the most popular trips in the area are South Padre Island fishing 4 hrs guided by Zach, Bottom Fishing and Jigging SPI guided by Jerrid, and Bottom Fishing and Jigging SPI guided by Jerrid.

Our guides in South Padre Island are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3710 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 South Padre Island? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in South Padre Island.

What types of fishing charters are common in South Padre Island?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing in South Padre Island as well as inshore fishing, flats fishing, and jetty fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in South Padre Island are: 1. speckled trout, 2. snook, 3. redfish, 4. flounder, and 5. black drum.

The most common fishing techniques in South Padre Island are live bait fishing, artificial lure fishing, and bottom fishing but cut bait fishing and light tackle fishing are popular as well.

How much do South Padre Island fishing charters cost?

Prices in South Padre Island can range anywhere from about $550 to $3,200, but the average price for a half day trip in South Padre Island is $1,099. The average price for a full day trip in South Padre Island is $3,265.

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 South Padre Island?

The most popular season for fishing in South Padre Island is fall, and most anglers book their trips 22 days in advance.

Do I need a South Padre Island fishing license and what are the bag limits in South Padre Island?

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

What is fishing in South Padre Island all about?

Fishing in South Padre Island, located on the southern tip of Texas, offers a diverse and exciting experience for anglers of all skill levels. The island's unique location between the Gulf of Mexico and the Laguna Madre provides a variety of fishing environments, from deep-sea adventures to calm, shallow waters. Inshore fishing is particularly popular, with anglers targeting species such as redfish, speckled trout, and flounder in the productive waters of the Laguna Madre. The extensive seagrass beds and flats create ideal habitats for these fish, making inshore fishing both challenging and rewarding.

For those seeking the thrill of big game fishing, South Padre Island's offshore waters do not disappoint. The Gulf of Mexico is home to a wide array of pelagic species, including mahi-mahi, tuna, and marlin. Deep-sea fishing charters are readily available and provide anglers with the opportunity to venture far offshore to target these impressive fish. The excitement of reeling in a large, powerful fish in the open ocean is an experience that draws anglers from all over the country to South Padre Island.

Additionally, South Padre Island offers excellent opportunities for surf fishing and pier fishing. The island's long stretches of sandy beaches are perfect for casting into the surf for species like pompano, whiting, and even the occasional shark. The fishing piers provide easy access to deeper waters without the need for a boat, making them a popular choice for families and casual anglers. With its diverse range of fishing options and abundant marine life, South Padre Island is a premier destination for anyone looking to enjoy a memorable fishing experience.

What are the most popular months to fish in South Padre Island?

Fishing around South Padre Island, located at the southern tip of Texas, offers a variety of opportunities throughout the year, thanks to its diverse marine environment and favorable climate. During the winter months, from December to February, anglers can target species like redfish and speckled trout. These fish are abundant in the shallow waters of the Laguna Madre, where they seek warmer temperatures. The cooler weather also brings flounder into the area, especially around sandy bottoms and drop-offs, making winter a great season for these tasty flatfish.

Spring, from March to May, marks the beginning of the peak fishing season at South Padre Island. As the waters warm up, fish become more active and migratory species start to move through the area. This is an excellent time to catch snook, which can be found in the bays and estuaries. Additionally, the arrival of tarpon provides an exciting challenge for sport fishers, with these powerful fish often spotted in the deeper channels and nearshore waters. Spring also sees an increase in the number of baitfish, which attracts a variety of predator species, making it a productive time for fishing.

Summer and fall, from June to November, are particularly rewarding seasons for anglers at South Padre Island. The summer months bring an abundance of offshore opportunities, with species like kingfish, Spanish mackerel, and even marlin available for those venturing into deeper waters. Nearshore and inshore fishing remains productive, with redfish, trout, and snook continuing to provide great action. As fall approaches, the fishing remains excellent, with the addition of bull redfish making their way into the bays for spawning. The warmer water temperatures and abundant food sources ensure that South Padre Island remains a top fishing destination throughout these seasons.

What types of fishing are popular in South Padre Island?

Fishing in South Padre Island offers a variety of methods that cater to different angler preferences and target various species. One of the most popular types is inshore fishing, which involves fishing in the calm, shallow waters of the Laguna Madre. This type of fishing is ideal for catching redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. Anglers use light tackle and a variety of bait and lures to navigate the extensive seagrass beds and flats. The clear, shallow waters allow for sight fishing, where anglers can spot their target before casting, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience.

Offshore fishing is another prominent fishing style in South Padre Island, offering the thrill of big game fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Anglers venture miles offshore on deep-sea fishing charters to target large pelagic species such as mahi-mahi, tuna, and marlin. This type of fishing involves trolling with heavy tackle and requires a good understanding of ocean currents and fish behavior. The challenge and excitement of battling a powerful fish in the open ocean make offshore fishing a favorite among seasoned anglers seeking an adrenaline rush.

For those who prefer a more relaxed approach, surf fishing and pier fishing provide excellent alternatives. Surf fishing involves casting from the sandy beaches into the surf zone, targeting species like pompano, whiting, and occasionally sharks. It's a great way to enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery while fishing. Pier fishing offers easy access to deeper waters without needing a boat. South Padre Island's fishing piers are popular spots where anglers can catch a variety of fish, including trout, redfish, and mackerel. These fishing methods are perfect for families and casual anglers looking to enjoy a day by the water with the chance of catching some impressive fish.

What species are popular in South Padre Island?

South Padre Island is renowned for its rich and diverse fishery, offering anglers a wide range of species to target. One of the most popular and sought-after fish in the area is the redfish. Known for their strength and tenacity, redfish can be found throughout the year in the shallow waters of the Laguna Madre, as well as around the jetties and inlets. These fish are especially plentiful during the fall, when larger bull reds enter the bays to spawn, providing an exciting challenge for anglers.

Speckled trout, another favorite among fishermen, are abundant in the waters around South Padre Island. These fish are particularly active in the cooler months, from late fall through early spring, when they move into the shallow flats and grass beds. Speckled trout are prized not only for their fight but also for their delicious taste, making them a popular target for both sport and table fare. Anglers often use live bait or artificial lures to entice these fish, which can be found in large schools.

In addition to redfish and speckled trout, South Padre Island offers excellent opportunities to catch species like snook, flounder, and tarpon. Snook are typically found in the warmer months, lurking around mangroves, docks, and other structures. They are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. Flounder are more common in the fall and winter, often caught near sandy bottoms and around passes. Tarpon, the "silver king," can be spotted in the spring and summer, providing a thrilling experience for anglers with their powerful runs and spectacular jumps. The diverse array of fish species in South Padre Island ensures that anglers can enjoy a productive and exciting fishing experience year-round.

Does South Padre Island have good fishing?

South Padre Island, nestled off the southern tip of Texas, is celebrated for its diverse and plentiful fishing opportunities. Situated where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Laguna Madre, this barrier island offers anglers a unique blend of coastal and deep-sea fishing experiences. The Laguna Madre, a shallow and nutrient-rich bay, is famous for its abundant populations of redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and black drum. Anglers can fish from the shore, wade in the shallow flats, or explore deeper waters by boat, catering to a variety of fishing preferences and skill levels.

Offshore fishing enthusiasts visiting South Padre Island can venture into the Gulf of Mexico's deeper waters in pursuit of pelagic species such as kingfish, snapper, grouper, and even billfish during peak seasons. Charters departing from local marinas provide access to these offshore fishing grounds, equipped with experienced captains who know the best spots and techniques for landing prized catches. Whether casting lines from the beach, navigating the bay's winding channels, or heading offshore for big game, South Padre Island offers a thrilling fishing experience against a backdrop of stunning coastal scenery.

Fishing conditions at South Padre Island vary throughout the year, with spring and fall typically offering prime fishing opportunities due to milder temperatures and active fish feeding patterns. Local regulations ensure sustainable fishing practices, preserving the island's natural resources for future generations of anglers to enjoy. Whether seeking relaxation on the tranquil bay or adrenaline-pumping deep-sea adventures, South Padre Island remains a top destination for anglers looking to immerse themselves in Texas' vibrant coastal fishing culture.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Me and my family went out with captain Zach and had an awesome day. Weather wasn’t in our favour but made the best of it and landed some fish! Captain Zach was very helpful, runs good fishing gear and has a beautiful boat. Will be booking our next trip with him when we’re back in south Padre for a family vacation!

    Dallas C. | November 13, 2024

    Trip: South Padre Island fishing 4 hrs

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip we went on an adventure first thing to try something new and caught several fish then finished in the bay and caught a limit of trout Great experience, Mike was very patient and even gave me a ride back to my hotel

    Justin B. | June 15, 2024

    Trip: Private Snook Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent time with Captain Mike, a professional from start to finish, great with kids and inexperienced anglers.

    Carson R. | March 12, 2024

    Trip: Triple Delight - 3 Person Bay Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Mike was an awesome captain had a blast he was very knowledgeable and helpful definitely come back and go with him again 😂😂😂🎣🎣🎣

    Scott D. | February 20, 2024

    Trip: Half Day Private Bay Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    My nephew and I went out with Captain Mike on Jan 27th, 2024. Captain Mike was very approachable and personable with his introduction. He set up some rigs before we left the pier which only took a few minutes. His boat is a very comfortable and nicely setup. When we arrived at the fishing location Captain Mike was very informative on what to do and how to do it. He is very patient and informative. We set up a 5-hour trip but had our limits of Red Drum and Speckled Trout in only 3 hours of fishing time. He knew exactly where to go and what to do. When we arrived back at the pier there was a very kind gentleman waiting to clean our fish for us. He will clean them any you want them. I give Captain Mike a solid 5-star review and I will return to fish with him again in the future. THANK YOU, CAPTAIN MIKE, for a fantastic time.

    David D. | January 28, 2024

    Trip: Half Day Private Bay Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    During our trip, Captain Mike consistently put us on fish in multiple situations despite what I would consider fairly difficult weather conditions. He did a great job with my 12-year old son, who happily landed his first ever slot red, along with several other nice trout and redfish. We would definitely love to fish with Captain Mike again!

    Jason C. | December 7, 2023

    Trip: Half Day Private Bay Fishing Trip

Top Fishing Techniques in South Padre Island

Top Hunting Techniques in South Padre Island

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

Top Types of Fishing in South Padre Island

Top Types of Hunting in South Padre Island

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