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Damn Good Inshore Fishing Charters In Houston

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

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Recently Booked Inshore Fishing Charters In Houston, Tx

Fishing in Houston

Inshore Fishing Charter in Houston

Saltwater Bowfishing Adventure

80% (5)
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,100
Fishing in Houston

Inshore Fishing Charter in Houston

Inshore Special

100% (1)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $705
Fishing in Clear Lake Shores

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Houston

Clear Lake Redfish Rodeo

NEW
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $750
Fishing in Galveston

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Houston

Fly Fishing Galveston

100% (1)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $800
Fishing in Clear Lake Shores

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Houston

Clear Lake Flounder Special

NEW
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $750
Fishing in Baytown

Inshore Fishing Charter near Houston

Upper Galveston Bay Trip

100% (2)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $500

Top Types of Inshore Trips in Houston

Top Species for Inshore Fishing in Houston

“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

Target Species in Houston

January February March April May June July August September October November December
Alligator Gar
Not Ideal
Not Ideal
Good
Good
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Good
Good
Not Ideal
Black Drum
Not Ideal
Not Ideal
Good
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Good
Good
Carp
Not Ideal
Not Ideal
Good
Great
Great
Great
Good
Good
Great
Great
Good
Not Ideal
Flounder
Not Ideal
Not Ideal
Good
Good
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Good
Good
Not Ideal
Jack Crevalle
Not Ideal
Not Ideal
Good
Good
Great
Great
Great
Great
Good
Good
Not Ideal
Not Ideal
Longnose Gar
Good
Good
Good
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Good
Good
Needlefish
Great
Great
Great
Good
Good
Good
Good
Good
Good
Great
Great
Great
Ray
Not Ideal
Not Ideal
Good
Good
Good
Great
Great
Great
Great
Good
Good
Not Ideal
Redfish
Not Ideal
Not Ideal
Good
Good
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Good
Good
Not Ideal
Sheepshead
Not Ideal
Not Ideal
Good
Good
Great
Great
Great
Great
Good
Good
Not Ideal
Not Ideal
Smallmouth Buffalo
Good
Good
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Good
Good
Speckled Trout
Not Ideal
Not Ideal
Good
Good
Great
Great
Great
Great
Good
Good
Not Ideal
Not Ideal
Spotted Gar
Not Ideal
Not Ideal
Good
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Good
Good
Not Ideal
Stingray
Good
Good
Good
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Good
Good
Tilapia
Not Ideal
Not Ideal
Good
Good
Great
Great
Great
Great
Great
Good
Good
Not Ideal
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  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
  • Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

More Inshore Fishing Charters In Houston, Tx

Fishing in Deer Park
Fishing in Deer Park
Fishing in Deer Park
trip description for Sabine Lake Trout & Redfish in Deer Park

Prepare yourself for a relaxing, yet action-packed day on Sabine Lake with Captain Mike! Sabine Lake is renowned for its abundance of big Redfish and Speckled trout, which Captain Mike will help you catch throughout your 6-hour adventure. There is a vast area of marsh surrounding this lake which adds a layer of fortification in the event of strong winds and high tide. You’ll be fishing on Captain Mike’s 24’ Kenner Center console. It is equipped with a GPS and a fishfinder. You may purchase a live bait well for an additional fee. Not to mention that the boat can cruise at a maximum speed of 40 knots. It can accommodate 3 anglers. Make sure you bring a valid Texas fishing license, food and drinks of your choice (no glass), a hat, sunscreen, and some good company! Captain Mike will provide the rest. Come on down and make some memories with Captain Mike! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter near Houston

Sabine Lake Trout & Redfish

100% (4)
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $500
Fishing in Baytown
Fishing in Baytown
Fishing in Baytown
trip description for Baytown Slam in Baytown

Head out with Captain David to explore these productive Galveston Bay system waters home to the “Texas Big Three” (Redfish, Flounder, and Speckled Trout), and many more species. On this 5-hour action-packed half day adventure, Captain David will help you chase 'em down! Captain David runs these trips aboard his 24’ Shallow Sport center console which can accommodate up to 4 anglers. This vessel is specifically designed for those shallow hotspots and makes for a smooth ride to and from his best fishing spots. Captain David specializes in sight casting and drift fishing the bay system on light tackle. If you’re willing to try something new, Captain David can also accommodate fly fishing if you want to bring your own gear! Your captain will provide all rods, reels, tackle, and lures. He’ll also provide water, although feel free to bring your drinks. On these trips, Captain David will provide a cooler with ice and water and extra space for you favorite snacks and beverages to chill as well! Other than snacks and drink please make sure you bring a valid Texas saltwater fishing license, otherwise, Captain David will take care of the rest! Get ready for an exciting half-day of fishing with Captain David! Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Houston

Baytown Slam

80% (5)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $400
Fishing, Hunting in Baytown
Fishing, Hunting in Baytown
Fishing, Hunting in Baytown
trip description for Baytown Hook and Shoot in Baytown

Fishing and Duck Hunting—no better combination. If you’ve never fished the Galveston Bay system, you’re missing out. These productive waters are home to the “Texas Big Three” of Redfish, Flounder, and Speckled Trout, plus Sheepshead, and Black Drum, and many more species. On this 6-hour action-packed adventure, Captain David will help you reel ‘em all in. Don’t forget your shotgun, ammo, and thermal chest waders. You’ll be hopping off the boat to go hunting for some delicious ducks. Captain David conducts these trips using his 24’ Shallow Sport center console which can accommodate up to 3 anglers. This vessel is meant for those shallow hotspots and makes for a smooth ride to and from your destination. When fishing with Captain David, you’ll specialize in light tackle, bottom fishing, spinning, and drift fishing. If you’re willing to try something new, Captain David can also accommodate fly fishing. You’ll need to bring your own gear. Your captain will provide all rods, reels, tackle, and lures. He’ll also provide water but feel free to bring your drinks. You’ll also want to bring some food. Make sure you have a valid Texas saltwater fishing license. Put your game face on and embark on this one-of-a-kind combo adventure with Captain David! Read More

Duck, Goose, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing, Hunting Charter near Houston

Baytown Hook And Shoot

80% (5)
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $280
Fishing in Clear Lake Shores
Fishing in Clear Lake Shores
Fishing in Clear Lake Shores
trip description for Clear Lake Inshore Slam in Clear Lake Shores

experienced captains for a 4-5 hour inshore trip targeting anything and everything that bites sticking around Clear Lake Bay or venturing further out into the Galveston Bay complex. You’ll target the Texas Big Three: Flounder, Redfish, and Speckled Trout while fishing aboard one of their awesome bay boats. You may also have the opportunity to catch sheepshead and sharks as well! All his boats can accommodate 4 anglers and are equipped with live bait wells and trolling motors. The crew usually likes to meet up at Schaefer's Coastal Bar, but are more than happy to pick you up from any restaurant or Hotel on Clearlake/Kemah area. These trips are for anglers of all skill levels and ages. No matter if you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, Your guide will lead the way and take care of everything! They will provide all the bait, tackle, rods, and gear. You only need to bring food and drinks and Texas saltwater fishing license. Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Houston

Clear Lake Inshore Slam

NEW
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $750
Fishing in Seabrook
Fishing in Seabrook
Fishing in Seabrook
trip description for Therapeutic Fishing in Seabrook

Come experience a uniquely relaxing break from daily stressors and connect with nature with Captain Kevin, a seasoned fishing guide and his wife, a licensed therapist, will host you guys on the water for some fish catching and mindfulness help. We provide the highest quality experience while allowing our customers to relax, enjoy the water, and catch some fish. Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter near Houston

Therapeutic Fishing

NEW
20 ft 1 - 2 People From $360
Fishing in Clear Lake Shores
Fishing in Clear Lake Shores
Fishing in Clear Lake Shores
trip description for Clear Lake Speckled Trout Special in Clear Lake Shores

Captain Kerry and crew usually like to meet up at Schaefer's Coastal Bar, but are more than happy to pick you up from any restaurant or Hotel on Clearlake/Kemah area. Seatrout are ambush predators, They can sit still and wait for a passing meal and then quickly grab it with their large teeth. They primarily feed on shrimp and baitfish such as mullet, pinfish, and pigfish. They are not picky, however, and will eat a huge range of live, natural, artificial baits and flies. I primarily fish for seatrout using artificial lures. Along the edges of flats in water 2-4 feet deep, trout can be caught using jigs with a soft plastic tail or a noise-making cork and plastic shrimp combo. In these locations, it is common to catch numerous fish in the 12-20 inch range. Up on the shallow grass flats, larger trout will lie in and along sandy spots, using them as ambush points. Anglers can blind cast across these areas using a soft plastic jerk bait or they can wait until individual fish are spotted and cast to them. Trophy-sized trout over 24″ are extremely sensitive to boat noise and will quickly swim off if they become aware of your presence. The spotted seatrout, or speckled trout as it is sometimes called, is found throughout the Gulf of Mexico region all year long. They account for the biggest number when it comes to the amount of fish caught by recreational anglers here. Local anglers usually refer to them simply as “trout”. While they make appear similar to freshwater trout, specks are in the drum family along with redfish, croaker, and black drum. The inside if their mouth is yellow and they generally have one or two large fangs in front surrounded by smaller teeth. Their scales are small and they are a delicate fish that cannot take much handling. Their bodies are covered in spots to help them hide in the grass beds. Seatrout are generally easier to catch for inexperienced or novice anglers. The fish in deeper water do not require the casting skill that is needed to sight fishing for redfish. typical blind casting technique with a wide range of retrieves will entice these fish to bite. Having a dehooking device while eliminating the need to handle every fish. Using barbless hooks will cause less damage to them and help ensure a healthy release. These fish are very tasty and fun to catch. You'll love having a freezer full of trout you can eat year-round!! These trips are for anglers of all skill levels and ages. No matter if you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, Captain Kerry will lead the way and take care of everything! They will provide all the bait, tackle, rods, and gear. You only need to bring food and drinks and Texas saltwater fishing license. Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Houston

Clear Lake Speckled Trout Special

NEW
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $750
See All Inshore Trips in Houston

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Everything to Know About Booking a Houston inshore fishing charter

What are the best inshore fishing charters in Houston?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 16 inshore trips in Houston, and the most popular trips in the area are Saltwater Bowfishing Adventure guided by Mark and Inshore Special guided by Joey.

Our guides in Houston are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3507 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 Houston? Check out our beginner and family friendly inshore guides in Houston.

What types of inshore fishing charters are common in Houston?

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 Houston are light tackle fishing, artificial lure fishing, and live bait fishing but drift fishing and bottom fishing are popular as well.

How much do Houston inshore fishing charters cost?

Prices for inshore fishing in Houston can range anywhere from about $400 to $1,260, but the average price for a half day trip for inshore fishing in Houston is $661. The average price for a full day trip for inshore fishing in Houston is $856.

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 Houston?

The most popular season for inshore fishing in Houston is fall, and most anglers book their trips 17 days in advance.

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

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

What is inshore fishing in Houston all about?

Inshore fishing in Houston offers anglers a diverse and exciting experience, thanks to the city's proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and various estuaries. One of the prime locations for inshore fishing is Galveston Bay, a vast and rich ecosystem that supports a wide variety of fish species. Anglers can expect to target popular catches like speckled trout, redfish, and flounder, making it an ideal destination for both seasoned fishermen and beginners.

The Galveston Bay system provides a dynamic environment for inshore fishing, with its intricate network of bays, channels, and marshes. The unique combination of freshwater inflow from rivers like the Trinity and San Jacinto, along with the saltwater influence from the Gulf, creates a habitat that attracts a plethora of fish. This diversity makes inshore fishing in Houston not only enjoyable but also unpredictable, as anglers might encounter different species depending on the season and conditions.

Local guides and charters play a crucial role in enhancing the inshore fishing experience in Houston. With their expertise, they can navigate the intricate waterways, share insights into fish behavior, and provide valuable tips on the best techniques and gear. Whether you're casting your line along the jetties, exploring the shallow flats, or drifting through the marshes, inshore fishing in Houston promises a memorable adventure for those seeking both relaxation and the thrill of the catch.

What species are most popular inshore fishing in Houston?

Inshore fishing in Houston offers anglers an incredible variety of species to target, making it a haven for fishing enthusiasts seeking diverse experiences. One of the most sought-after catches is the speckled trout, known for its delicious taste and spirited fight. These silver-scaled beauties thrive in the brackish waters of Galveston Bay, providing anglers with ample opportunities to reel in a trophy-sized trout while enjoying the scenic surroundings.

Redfish, or red drum, are another popular species that lure anglers to Houston's inshore waters. These powerful and copper-hued fish are abundant in the marshy areas and flats, offering a challenging yet rewarding pursuit. The thrill of hooking into a bull redfish in the shallow bays is an experience that keeps anglers coming back for more. Additionally, the inshore waters around Houston harbor a healthy population of flounder, a flatfish prized for its distinct taste. Anglers can target these bottom-dwellers by drifting along the sandy bottoms or casting near structure, adding an extra layer of excitement to their inshore fishing adventure.

For those looking to diversify their catch, Houston's inshore waters also host sheepshead, black drum, and a variety of panfish. The dynamic ecosystem of Galveston Bay ensures that each fishing expedition holds the potential for a surprise encounter, making inshore fishing in Houston a captivating pursuit for both seasoned anglers and newcomers alike.

What are the inshore fishing seasons in Houston?

Inshore fishing in Houston experiences distinct seasons, each bringing its own set of challenges and opportunities for anglers. Spring is often considered prime time, marked by the return of warmer temperatures and the rejuvenation of marine life. As the waters start to warm up, species like speckled trout and redfish become more active, making it an ideal season for casting your line in the shallow flats and marshy areas. Spring also sees an increase in baitfish, attracting larger predatory species, creating a dynamic and exciting fishing environment.

Summer in Houston offers a different flavor of inshore fishing, with longer days and warmer waters. This season is excellent for targeting a variety of species, including flounder and black drum, which thrive in the heat. Anglers often explore the deeper channels and oyster beds during summer, where fish seek refuge from the higher temperatures. While the heat can present its challenges, the rewards of a successful summer inshore fishing trip can be bountiful, with the chance to reel in impressive catches.

Fall brings a unique charm to inshore fishing in Houston as the temperatures start to cool down. Speckled trout activity reaches its peak during this season, and redfish continue to offer exciting opportunities for anglers. As the fish prepare for the upcoming winter, they become more voracious, making fall an excellent time to experience the thrill of the catch. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, exploring the diverse inshore fishing seasons in Houston ensures there's always something exciting happening on the water.

What techniques are popular for inshore fishing in Houston?

Inshore fishing in Houston demands a versatile set of techniques to adapt to the diverse environments and species present in the area. One popular method is wade fishing, where anglers don waders and venture into the shallow waters to target fish like speckled trout and redfish. This technique allows for a stealthy approach, getting closer to the fish without the disturbance of a boat. Casting artificial lures like soft plastics or topwater baits during wade fishing can be particularly effective, enticing strikes from the fish hiding in the grassy flats or around oyster beds.

Drifting is another prevalent inshore fishing technique, especially in the expansive waters of Galveston Bay. Anglers drift with the current, covering a larger area and increasing their chances of encountering different species. Live or cut bait presented near the bottom is a common approach during drifting, attracting flounder, redfish, and black drum. This technique is not only productive but also allows anglers to enjoy the picturesque surroundings while waiting for the telltale tug on the line.

For those who prefer a more stationary approach, anchoring near structure such as docks, piers, or jetties can be a fruitful technique. This method is effective for targeting a variety of species, including sheepshead and black drum. Using live or cut bait near these structures can attract fish seeking shelter or foraging for food. Regardless of the chosen technique, inshore fishing in Houston offers a rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels, combining strategy, skill, and the joy of being out on the water.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    What awesome trip!!Mike is one of the best guides I have fished with! So helpful and knowledgeable! I can not go wrong fishing with him!

    Danny C. | December 27, 2023

    Trip: Winter fishing special

  • ★★★★★
    We had the best time with Captain David! He was so nice and fun to fish with. I had never saltwater fished and he was very patient with me. She showed me how to bait the hook and did it for me until I was comfortable doing it myself. No judgement. He was an all around good guy! Took us to several spots and put us in fish every spot. We caught black drum, croakers and red drum. He took me to his Hail Mary spot ( shhh it’s a secret). And I caught a 15 pound Red Drum. He helped me step by step land it into the boat. It was so much fun and he was as excited as I was. We saw a mama and her baby dolphin and he took me as close as he could to them so I could get some pictures because he knew I was excited to see them. On the way back to the pier he told us some history and info about the things we were seeing. I will definitely book with Captain David next time we go down there.

    Teresa L. | September 16, 2023

    Trip: Baytown Slam

  • ★★★★★
    Captain David was great. The weather and the tide was working hard against us and he worked harder to put us on fish. Great trip with a quality guide, I will be back.

    Terry M. | July 17, 2023

    Trip: Baytown Slam

  • ★★★★★
    It was EPIC. Mark is this man!

    Kale G. | April 21, 2023

    Trip: Saltwater Bowfishing Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great trip with Captain Joey. He worked very hard at finding fish and we caught some good ones. We would highly recommend him.

    Stephen B. | April 6, 2022

    Trip: Inshore Special

  • ★★★★★
    Richard was an awesome guide - he had us on redfish the entire time despite it being overcast and windy. He’s also incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. He thoughtfully answered all of our questions and offered clear casting instruction throughout the day. Will definitely be back to fish with him in the summer.

    Isabel B. | April 4, 2021

    Trip: Fly Fishing Galveston

Other Types of Fishing in Houston

How are fishing conditions in Houston?

View Houston Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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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 Inshore Trips in Houston