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Top Species for Fishing in Texas
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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Texas
What are the best fishing charters in Texas?
The best fishing charters in Texas are:
Why should I book a fishing charter in Texas with Captain Experiences?
Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 852 trips in Texas, and the most popular trips in the area are Galveston Jetty Roundup guided by Shannon, South Padre Bay Fishing guided by Jonathan, and Port Aransas Inshore Adventure guided by Corey.
Our guides in Texas are rated a 4.89 out of 5 based on 3925 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 Texas? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Texas.
What types of fishing charters are common in Texas?
Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Texas as well as inshore fishing, nearshore fishing, and jetty fishing.
The most commonly sought after species in Texas are: 1. redfish, 2. black drum, 3. flounder, 4. speckled trout, and 5. blacktip shark.
The most common fishing techniques in Texas are light tackle fishing, bottom fishing, and artificial lure fishing but heavy tackle fishing and drift fishing are popular as well.
How much do Texas fishing charters cost?
Prices in Texas can range anywhere from about $500 to $1,855, but the average price for a half day trip in Texas is $745. The average price for a full day trip in Texas is $1,344.
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 Texas?
The most popular season for fishing in Texas is summer, and most anglers book their trips 14 days in advance.
Do I need a Texas fishing license and what are the bag limits in Texas?
See here for more information on fishing licenses in Texas, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Texas. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Texas.
What is fishing in Texas all about?
Fishing in Texas is a beloved pastime and a vibrant part of the state's culture, offering a diverse range of angling experiences across its vast landscapes. From the Gulf Coast's saltwater bays to the numerous freshwater lakes and rivers scattered throughout the state, Texas boasts plentiful opportunities for both recreational and competitive fishing. Anglers can target a variety of species depending on their location and preference, including redfish, speckled trout, largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie, among others.
The Texas coast along the Gulf of Mexico is particularly renowned for its saltwater fishing opportunities. Whether casting from a pier, wading in shallow flats, or heading offshore, anglers can pursue prized catches like red snapper, flounder, and kingfish. The bountiful waters near Galveston, Corpus Christi, and South Padre Island attract fishing enthusiasts year-round, drawn not only by the abundance of fish but also by the chance to experience the coastal scenery and warm hospitality.
Inland, Texas offers a wealth of freshwater fishing options. Lakes such as Lake Fork, known for its trophy-sized largemouth bass, and Lake Texoma, famous for striped bass and catfish, draw anglers seeking record catches and memorable outings. Rivers like the Guadalupe and Brazos provide opportunities for fly fishing and scenic drifts amidst stunning natural landscapes. Whether fishing from the shore, a boat, or exploring remote riverbanks, Texas offers a rich tapestry of fishing experiences that cater to anglers of all skill levels and preferences.
What are the most popular months to go fishing in Texas?
Fishing seasons in Texas are influenced by the state's diverse geography and the varying behaviors of its fish species throughout the year. Spring kicks off a busy season as temperatures warm, enticing fish to become more active. Along the Texas coast, this time sees a surge in activity for species like speckled trout and redfish as they move closer to shore and into the bays to spawn. Anglers take advantage of mild weather and favorable tides, often targeting these prized catches with live bait or artificial lures.
Summer in Texas brings warmer waters and longer days, prompting fish to seek deeper and cooler habitats. While inland lakes and rivers may slow down during the heat of the day, early mornings and late evenings offer prime fishing opportunities. Bass fishing, particularly for largemouth and smallmouth bass, remains popular as anglers adjust their techniques to target these fish in deeper waters or shaded areas. Along the coast, offshore fishing for species like kingfish and dorado peaks during this time, with anglers venturing farther out to sea to find the best spots.
Fall signals a shift in fishing patterns across Texas as temperatures begin to cool. This season is highly anticipated for anglers targeting trophy-sized fish, especially in inland lakes where bass and crappie become more active. Cooler weather also brings migratory species like flounder into shallow coastal waters, providing excellent opportunities for shore anglers and those fishing from boats. As winter approaches, fishing slows down in some areas, but certain species like trout and redfish remain accessible along the coast, offering year-round excitement for dedicated anglers willing to brave the cooler temperatures. Overall, Texas's fishing seasons offer a dynamic and rewarding experience for anglers throughout the year, catering to a wide range of preferences and techniques.
What types of fishing are popular in Texas?
Fishing in Texas spans a variety of types and techniques, reflecting the state's diverse aquatic habitats and abundant fish species. Along the Gulf Coast, saltwater fishing is a major draw, with anglers targeting popular species such as redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. Techniques like drift fishing with live shrimp or artificial lures, as well as bottom fishing with cut bait, are effective in the bays and nearshore waters. Offshore fishing for larger species like kingfish, dorado, and snapper involves deep-sea techniques such as trolling with lures or baited rigs, often requiring boats equipped for longer journeys into the Gulf of Mexico.
Inland, Texas offers numerous freshwater fishing opportunities in its lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. Bass fishing is particularly prominent, with lakes like Lake Fork and Sam Rayburn Reservoir known for producing trophy-sized largemouth bass. Anglers employ techniques such as casting topwater lures over submerged vegetation or using jigs and crankbaits to target bass in deeper waters near structure. Crappie fishing is also popular, especially during spawning seasons in the spring, with anglers using techniques like jigging or spider rigging to catch these panfish in abundance.
Texas's rivers provide additional opportunities for fishing, including fly fishing for species like trout in rivers such as the Guadalupe River. Anglers here often focus on matching hatch patterns with artificial flies and targeting riffles and pools where trout congregate. Catfish are another prized catch throughout Texas, with techniques ranging from bottom fishing with stink bait or chicken liver in rivers to jug fishing and trotlining in larger reservoirs. Whether pursuing saltwater giants off the coast or casting for bass in inland lakes, Texas offers a wealth of fishing experiences tailored to every angler's preference and skill level.
What species are popular for fishing in Texas?
Fishing in Texas offers a rich diversity of species to target, catering to both freshwater and saltwater enthusiasts across the state. Along the Gulf Coast, anglers can pursue iconic saltwater species such as redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. Redfish, known for their strength and distinctive bronze color, thrive in marshy areas and along sandy flats, where anglers often use live or cut bait on bottom rigs or artificial lures to entice strikes. Speckled trout, another prized catch, are found in deeper channels and around grassy shorelines, with techniques like drift fishing or casting soft plastic baits proving effective. Flounder, renowned for their tasty fillets, are typically caught using live minnows or artificial jigs near structure or in sandy areas.
Inland, Texas boasts a vibrant bass fishery, with largemouth bass being the most sought-after species. Lakes such as Lake Fork, Falcon Lake, and Lake Sam Rayburn are renowned for producing trophy-sized bass year-round. Anglers employ a variety of techniques including flipping and pitching plastic worms or jigs into dense cover, topwater lures during dawn and dusk, and crankbaits or spinnerbaits along rocky shorelines or drop-offs. Spring and fall are particularly productive seasons as bass move shallow to spawn or feed aggressively before winter.
For those seeking a relaxing day of fishing with guaranteed bites, catfish provide a reliable option across Texas's rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. Channel catfish, blue catfish, and flathead catfish are commonly targeted using baits such as chicken liver, stink bait, or cut bait fished on the bottom. Popular spots include the Trinity River, Lake Livingston, and Lake Tawakoni, where catfish can reach impressive sizes and offer steady action for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Whether angling in coastal waters or freshwater lakes, Texas offers a wealth of opportunities to reel in memorable catches and enjoy the thrill of the hunt.
What are the best places to fish in Texas?
Choosing the best places to fish in Texas depends largely on what type of fishing experience you're seeking, as the state offers diverse opportunities across its vast landscapes. Along the Gulf Coast, destinations like Galveston, Corpus Christi, and South Padre Island are renowned for their excellent saltwater fishing. Anglers here can target a variety of species including redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and kingfish. Whether fishing from piers, wading in shallow flats, or venturing offshore for bigger game fish, these coastal areas provide ample opportunities year-round, with peak seasons varying by species and location.
Inland, Texas boasts numerous lakes and reservoirs known for their exceptional freshwater fishing. Lake Fork, often referred to as the "Bass Capital of Texas," consistently produces trophy-sized largemouth bass. Anglers flock to this lake, as well as others like Lake Sam Rayburn, Falcon Lake, and Toledo Bend Reservoir, for bass fishing tournaments and recreational angling. These lakes offer a variety of habitats including submerged vegetation, rocky structures, and deep channels, making them ideal for a range of fishing techniques from topwater action to deep jigging.
For those who enjoy the serenity of rivers and streams, Texas provides several notable options. The Guadalupe River, particularly downstream of Canyon Lake, is popular for fly fishing enthusiasts seeking rainbow and brown trout in a scenic Hill Country setting. The Brazos River and Colorado River also offer opportunities for bass, catfish, and sunfish, with plenty of access points for bank fishing and boating. Whether you prefer coastal saltwater fishing, thrilling bass tournaments on expansive lakes, or tranquil days along rivers and streams, Texas's diverse fishing destinations ensure there's something for every angler to enjoy throughout the year.
Does Texas have good fishing?
Texas is a fantastic destination for fishing, offering a wide range of opportunities in both freshwater and saltwater environments. The state boasts numerous lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, each providing excellent fishing experiences. Notable freshwater spots like Lake Fork, known for its trophy Largemouth Bass, and the expansive Lake Texoma, home to abundant Striped Bass, are popular among anglers. Additionally, the Guadalupe River offers some of the best Trout fishing in the state, while Lake Amistad and Falcon Lake are renowned for their Bass fishing tournaments. Texas's diverse freshwater ecosystems ensure that anglers can enjoy successful fishing trips year-round.
In addition to its superb freshwater options, Texas offers exceptional saltwater fishing along its Gulf Coast. The coastal areas, including Galveston Bay, Port Aransas, and the Laguna Madre, are teeming with species like Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, and Black Drum. Offshore fishing in the Gulf of Mexico provides opportunities to catch larger species such as Snapper, King Mackerel, and Mahi-Mahi. The state's extensive network of coastal marshes, bays, and offshore waters creates diverse fishing environments that cater to both inshore and deep-sea anglers. The mild climate and long fishing season make Texas's coast an inviting destination for saltwater fishing enthusiasts.
Texas's fishing community is vibrant and well-supported by numerous resources, events, and conservation efforts. The state hosts a variety of fishing tournaments, such as the Texas Bass Classic and the Coastal Conservation Association's STAR Tournament, which draw anglers from across the country. Local bait shops, fishing guides, and charter services provide valuable information and assistance, ensuring that both novice and experienced anglers can make the most of their fishing trips. Furthermore, Texas's commitment to conservation and responsible fishing practices helps maintain healthy fish populations and pristine fishing environments. Overall, with its diverse fishing opportunities, strong community support, and dedication to sustainability, Texas is undoubtedly a top destination for fishing enthusiasts.
Recent Reviews
The Best Places to Fish in Texas
- Abilene, TX
- Alba, TX
- Aquilla, TX
- Aransas Pass, TX
- Athens, TX
- Austin, TX
- Bastrop, TX
- Bay City, TX
- Baytown, TX
- Bayview, TX
- Belton, TX
- Bolivar Peninsula, TX
- Brazos River, TX
- Broaddus, TX
- Burnet, TX
- Clear Lake Shores, TX
- Coldspring, TX
- Comstock, TX
- Corpus Christi, TX
- Corsicana, TX
- Dallas, TX
- DeSoto, TX
- Devils River, TX
- Dickinson, TX
- Eagle Lake, TX
- Etoile, TX
- Fayetteville, TX
- Fort Worth, TX
- Freeport, TX
- Fulton, TX
- Galveston, TX
- Graford, TX
- Granbury, TX
- Groves, TX
- Harlingen, TX
- Hemphill, TX
- Hitchcock, TX
- Honey Grove, TX
- Houston, TX
- Huntsville, TX
- Ingleside, TX
- Ira, TX
- Lago Vista, TX
- Lake Fork, TX
- Lake Whitney, TX
- Leander, TX
- Liberty Hill, TX
- Little Elm, TX
- Liverpool, TX
- Livingston, TX
- Marble Falls, TX
- Matagorda, TX
- Montgomery, TX
- New Braunfels, TX
- Onalaska, TX
- Palacios, TX
- Palestine, TX
- Paxton, TX
- Port Aransas, TX
- Port Arthur, TX
- Port Isabel, TX
- Port Mansfield, TX
- Port O'Connor, TX
- Pottsboro, TX
- Quitman, TX
- Rio Hondo, TX
- Rio Vista, TX
- Rockport, TX
- Roma, TX
- Round Rock, TX
- Rowlett, TX
- Runaway Bay, TX
- San Antonio, TX
- San Leon, TX
- Sanger, TX
- Seabrook, TX
- Seadrift, TX
- South Padre Island, TX
- Spicewood, TX
- Surfside Beach, TX
- Texas City, TX
- Tiki Island, TX
- Tow, TX
- Voss, TX
- Waco, TX
- Wharton, TX
- Willis, TX
- Yantis, TX
- Zapata, TX
- Zavalla, TX
Top Targeted Fishing Species in Texas
- Alligator Gar
- Almaco Jack
- Amberjack
- Atlantic Mackerel
- Barracuda
- Black Drum
- Black Grouper
- Black Marlin
- Blackfin Tuna
- Blacktip Shark
- Blue Catfish
- Blue Marlin
- Bluefin Tuna
- Bluegill
- Bonefish
- Bonito
- Bonnethead Shark
- Broomtail Grouper
- Brown Trout
- Bull Shark
- California Sheephead
- Carp
- Channel Catfish
- Cobia
- Crappie
- Flathead Catfish
- Florida Pompano
- Flounder
- Freshwater Drum
- Gag Grouper
- Garfish
- Golden Dorado
- Goliath Grouper
- Guadalupe Bass
- Hammerhead Shark
- Hybrid Striped Bass
- Jack Crevalle
- Kingfish
- Ladyfish
- Lane Snapper
- Largemouth Bass
- Lemon Shark
- Leopard Shark
- Lingcod
- Longnose Gar
- Mahi Mahi
- Mako Shark
- Mangrove Snapper
- Mutton Snapper
- Needlefish
- Nurse Shark
- Perch
- Rainbow Runner
- Rainbow Trout
- Ray
- Red Grouper
- Red Snapper
- Redfish
- Sailfish
- Sandbar Shark
- Scamp Grouper
- Shad
- Sheepshead
- Skipjack Tuna
- Smallmouth Bass
- Smallmouth Buffalo
- Snook
- Snowy Grouper
- Spadefish
- Spanish Mackerel
- Speckled Trout
- Spinner Shark
- Spotted Bass
- Spotted Gar
- Stingray
- Strawberry Grouper
- Striped Bass
- Sunfish
- Swordfish
- Tarpon
- Tiger Shark
- Tilapia
- Tilefish
- Triggerfish
- Tripletail
- Vermillion Snapper
- Wahoo
- Warsaw Grouper
- White Bass
- White Marlin
- Whiting
- Yellowfin Tuna
- Yellowtail Snapper
Top Targeted Hunting Species in Texas
- Alligator
- Aoudad
- Black Duck
- Black-Bellied Whistling Duck
- Blue Goose
- Blue-Winged Teal
- Bluebill
- Bobcat
- Bufflehead
- Canada Goose
- Canvasback
- Chukar
- Cinnamon Teal
- Common Goldeneye
- Common Merganser
- Coyote
- Dove
- Gadwall
- Green-Winged Teal
- Hog
- Hooded Merganser
- Mallard
- Mottled Duck
- Nilgai
- Northern Pintail
- Northern Shoveler
- Pheasant
- Quail
- Red-Breasted Merganser
- Redhead
- Ring-Necked Duck
- Ross's Goose
- Ruddy Duck
- Sandhill Crane
- Snow Goose
- Specklebelly Goose
- Turkey
- Whitetail Deer
- Wigeon
- Wood Duck
Top Fishing Techniques in Texas
- Artificial Lure Fishing
- Bottom Fishing
- Bowfishing
- Cut Bait Fishing
- Deep Dropping
- Drift Fishing
- Fly Fishing
- Gigging
- Heavy Tackle Fishing
- Jigging
- Kayak Fishing
- Light Tackle Fishing
- Live Bait Fishing
- Sight Casting
- Spearfishing
- Surf Fishing
- Topwater Fishing
- Trolling
- Wading
Top Hunting Techniques in Texas
- Archery
- Calling
- Decoy Hunting
- Helicopter Hunting
- Hunting With Dogs
- Hunting from a Blind
- Management Hunting
- Released Bird Hunting
- Rifle Hunting
- Shotgun Hunting
- Thermal Hunting
Featured Cities
- Fishing Charters Near Me
- Austin Fishing Guides
- Biloxi Fishing Charters
- Bradenton Fishing Charters
- Cabo San Lucas Fishing Charters
- Cancun Fishing Charters
- Cape Coral Fishing Charters
- Charleston Fishing Charters
- Clearwater Fishing Charters
- Corpus Christi Fishing Charters
- Dauphin Island Fishing Charters
- Daytona Beach Fishing Charters
- Destin Fishing Charters
- Fort Lauderdale Fishing Charters
- Fort Myers Fishing Charters
- Fort Walton Beach Fishing Charters
- Galveston Fishing Charters
- Gulf Shores Fishing Charters
- Hatteras Fishing Charters
- Hilton Head Fishing Charters
- Islamorada Fishing Charters
- Jacksonville Fishing Charters
- Jupiter Fishing Charters
- Key Largo Fishing Charters
- Key West Fishing Charters
- Kona Fishing Charters
- Madeira Beach Fishing Charters
- Marathon Fishing Charters
- Marco Island Fishing Charters
- Miami Fishing Charters
- Montauk Fishing Charters
- Morehead City Fishing Charters
- Naples Fishing Charters
- New Orleans Fishing Charters
- New Smyrna Beach Fishing Charters
- Orange Beach Fishing Charters
- Panama City Beach Fishing Charters
- Pensacola Fishing Charters
- Pompano Beach Fishing Charters
- Port Aransas Fishing Charters
- Rockport Fishing Charters
- San Diego Fishing Charters
- San Juan Fishing Charters
- Sarasota Fishing Charters
- South Padre Island Fishing Charters
- St. Petersburg Fishing Charters
- Tampa Fishing Charters
- Tarpon Springs Fishing Charters
- Venice Fishing Charters
- Virginia Beach Fishing Charters
How are fishing conditions in Texas?
View Texas Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.
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