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Damn Good Black Drum Fishing Charters In Port Isabel

Check real-time availability on Port Isabel black drum fishing trips. Online booking | 4.84 / 5 stars | Guides from $475

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Recently Booked Black Drum Fishing Charters Near Port Isabel, Tx

Fishing in Port Isabel

Flats, Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

Full Day Or Half Day Fishing Trip

100% (6)
25 ft 1 - 5 People From $500
Fishing in Port Isabel

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

Half-day - 21’ Shallow Stalker

100% (1)
21 ft 1 - 6 People From $575
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Fishing in Port Isabel

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

Family Friendly Fishing Adventures

100% (4)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $600
Fishing in Port Isabel

Flats, Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

Port Isabel 5-Hour - 25’ Majek

100% (9)
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Port Isabel

Flats, Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

Lower Laguna Madre

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25 ft 1 - 5 People From $650
Fishing in Port Isabel

Inshore Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

Drifting Laguna Madre For Pigs

100% (6)
24 ft 1 - 5 People From $450

Most Popular Types of Black Drum Trips in Port Isabel

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Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Black Drum Fishing Charters Near Port Isabel, Tx

Fishing in Port Isabel
Fishing in Port Isabel
Fishing in Port Isabel
trip description for 3 Hr Trip (Any time during daylight) in Port Isabel

On this laid-back trip with Captain Gary, you'll be able to mix it up and enjoy a combination of fishing, dolphin watching, Cruising, Combo. Or Fish while Taking in the beautiful sunset over the Texas Coast! This trip is great for kids and late risers who want to get out on the water during daylight hours, and have a great time! Captain Gary knows everything there is to know about Port Isabel and the surrounding area, so you'll learn a thing or two while you relax on board. In addition, Captain Gary is an expert angler who knows how to stack fish like few others! Catch your limit of Redfish, Trout, Flounder and more on this 3-hour excursion, and come home with a week of delicious dinners. Read More

Flats Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

3 Hr Trip (Any Time During Daylight)

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $400
Fishing in Port Isabel
Fishing in Port Isabel
Fishing in Port Isabel
trip description for Redfish, Trout, and Flounder—Oh My! in Port Isabel

Looking for a light tackle sportfishing specialist in Port Isabel, TX? There's no better choice than Captain Russell! His trips are a blast for both beginners and experienced anglers, and are a great way to enjoy the Texas coast and all the great fishing it offers. On this trip, you'll use variety of tackle and techniques, including both live bait and artificial lures, to chase Speckled Trout, Redfish, Black Drum, and Snook! These classic Texas sportfish are fun fighters, and they're great eating as well. Captain Russell is happy to clean and bag your keepers, so bring along a cooler to take your fish home. You'll step off the dock and onto Captain Russell's 24' Carolina Skiff. She's an ideal boat for motoring around the bay, and has a shallow draft to get you into the inshore waters and flats. Captain Russell will supply everything you need for an awesome trip, including rods, reels, bait and tackle! All you need to bring along is sunscreen, your Texas Fishing License, and proper clothing. Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

Redfish, Trout, And Flounder—Oh My!

100% (2)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $475
Fishing in Port Isabel
Fishing in Port Isabel
Fishing in Port Isabel
trip description for Catch-and-Release on Artificials in Port Isabel

Looking for an enjoyable laid back adventure whacking reds, trout, snook and more? There's no better choice than Captain Russell down in South Padre Island! Whether you're looking to dial it in and catch a monster on artificials or just kick back and catch some fish for the love of the sport, these trips are a blast for both beginners and experienced anglers, and are a great way to enjoy the South Texas coast and all the great fishing it offers. On this trip, you'll use light tackle gear and artificial lures exclusively. This trip is offered at a discounted rate since Captain Russell doesn't need to buy live bait. If you're looking to fish with live bait check out his other listings below for more options! to chase These classic sportfish like Speckled Trout, Redfish, Black Drum, and Snook are all fun fighters and are a blast to hook into with top waters, jig heads, or swim baits alike! You'll step off the dock and onto Captain Russell's 24' Carolina Skiff. She's an ideal boat for motoring around the bay, and has a shallow draft to get you into the inshore waters and flats. Captain Russell will supply everything you need for an awesome trip, including rods, reels, and tackle! All you need to bring along are any food or drinks you'd like to enjoy on board, your sunscreen, and your Texas Fishing License. Captain Russel will take care of the rest to ensure you have an epic day out on the water! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

Catch-and-Release On Artificials

100% (2)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $450
Fishing, Hunting in Port Isabel
Fishing, Hunting in Port Isabel
Fishing, Hunting in Port Isabel
trip description for Premier STX Cast and Blast in Port Isabel

If you are looking for the premier Cast and Blast trip in South Texas you've found your man down here in South Padre Island. Head out with Captain Gus to explore the shallows of the South Padre Islands lower Laguna Madre in search of tailing reds, the thrashing head shake of giant gator trout, and the unmistakable runs big Black Drum for half the day and experience some of the best duck hunting the Texas coast has to offer for the other half of this 8-hour trip! Since the ducks often fly both in the morning and the afternoon, the order and which you combine the two activities will mostly depend on the tides and your guide Gus's veteran advice. You will be fishing and hunting from the comfort of Captain Gus's meticulously maintained 24ft Carolina Skiff. This puppy features a new 200 HP Suzuki, cushioned seating, a spacious bow casting area and a pop up blind. He also runs a 18' Tracker Grizzly skiff with a Gator Tail mud motor and a 18' Polar Craft with a 50-HP Yamaha! Whatever boat you're on, you'll be kitted out for a sweet hunt. Captain Gus provides all the rods, reels, tackle, bait, and knowledge to ensure your success for the fishing aspect, he will also provide decoys, dogs, and professional calling for the duck hunt, but asks that you bring your own guns, shells, and waders if you'd like to stay dry. He wil also provide a cooler with ice and water for you and encourages you to bring you own beverages of choice along as well. Beer is welcomed on board (in moderation of course) just no glass bottles. Read More

Duck, Inshore Fishing, Hunting Charter in Port Isabel

Premier STX Cast And Blast

100% (2)
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $1,000
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Port Isabel
Fishing in Port Isabel
Fishing in Port Isabel
trip description for 3 Hour Fun Times in Port Isabel

Shallow bay trip: We provide an all-encompassing experience, you provide food, drinks, suntan lotion, hand towels, hats, and polarized amber sunglasses for optimal comfort and enjoyment. Captain Cliff invites you to discover the thrill of South Texas fishing. He began fishing the Lower Laguna Madre in 1974 and honed his skills with the guidance of Wade Dunkin. His first job was with Harlingen National Bank Dial Dunkin and Associates, where he gained experience fishing in deep south Texas and Northern Mexico. With decades of experience, Captain Cliff now offers six-pack charter trips with a US Coast Guard license. He targets a variety of species including Speckled Trout, Redfish, Flounder, and more. Experience the adventure of Texas Fishing with Captain Cliff. Read More

Flats, Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

3 Hour Fun Times

100% (4)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $450
Fishing in Port Isabel
Fishing in Port Isabel
Fishing in Port Isabel
trip description for Laguna Madre Magic in Port Isabel

Captain Augustin "Cappy" has over 35 years of experience fishing the Lower Laguna Madre. Trips may be taken from South Padre Island, Arroyo City or Port Mansfield. The boat is a 25-foot Dargel Kat (catamaran hull) which allows fishing from shallow waters to deep offshore trips. The Kat hull provides stability on the water plus a smooth ride through the chop. Fish targeted on the bay are redfish, trout, flounder, black drum and sheepshead. The fishing methods vary depending on each customer's request or ability. Baits used vary based on the method of fishing. Read More

Flats, Jetty Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

Laguna Madre Magic

100% (6)
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $475
See All Black Drum Trips in Port Isabel

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Everything to Know About Booking a Port Isabel black drum fishing charter

What are the best black drum fishing charters in Port Isabel?

Why should I book a black drum fishing charter in Port Isabel with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 34 black drum trips in Port Isabel, and the most popular trips in the area are Full Day or Half Day Fishing Trip guided by Jaime, Half-day - 21’ Shallow Stalker guided by Juan, and Priceless Mems & Fish in the Boat guided by Omar.

Our guides in Port Isabel are rated a 4.84 out of 5 based on 3308 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and 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 black drum guides / fishing lessons in Port Isabel? Check out our beginner and family friendly black drum guides in Port Isabel.

What types of black drum fishing charters are common in Port Isabel?

Inshore fishing is the most popular type of fishing for black drum in Port Isabel as well as flats fishing, jetty fishing, and nearshore fishing.

The most common fishing techniques in Port Isabel are light tackle fishing, drift fishing, and artificial lure fishing but live bait fishing and cut bait fishing are popular as well.

How much do Port Isabel black drum fishing charters cost?

Prices for black drum in Port Isabel can range anywhere from about $475 to $1,000, but the average price for a half day trip for black drum in Port Isabel is $626. The average price for a full day trip for black drum in Port Isabel is $904.

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 black drum fishing in Port Isabel?

The most popular season for black drum fishing in Port Isabel is summer, and most anglers book their trips 12 days in advance.

Do I need a Port Isabel fishing license for black drum and what are the bag limits for black drum in Port Isabel?

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

What is black drum fishing in Port Isabel all about?

Black drum are a common and sought-after species among anglers in Port Isabel, Texas. These fish, known for their distinctive black or dark gray coloration and drumming sounds, can be found in the shallow bays, estuaries, and nearshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Black drum are prized for their size and delicious flesh, making them a popular target for both recreational and culinary purposes. Anglers in Port Isabel often seek out black drum for their challenging fights and rewarding catches.

Fishing for black drum in Port Isabel can be productive year-round, though they are more commonly targeted during the cooler months. As water temperatures drop in late fall and winter, black drum become more active and move into shallower waters to feed. Anglers targeting black drum often use a variety of techniques, including bottom fishing with live or cut bait such as shrimp, crab, or mullet. Fishing around structure such as docks, jetties, or bridges can also increase the chances of encountering black drum.

Black drum are known for their strength and resilience, requiring anglers to use heavy tackle and sturdy equipment to handle them effectively. When hooked, black drum are notorious for their powerful runs and stubborn fights, often testing the angler's skill and patience. With their impressive size and challenging fights, black drum provide anglers in Port Isabel with an exciting and rewarding fishing experience in the diverse waters of the Texas coast.

What are the most popular months to fish for black drum fishing in Port Isabel?

Black drum seasons in Port Isabel, Texas, follow a seasonal pattern influenced by various environmental factors such as water temperature, baitfish migrations, and spawning behavior. These hefty and hard-fighting fish are typically found in nearshore and offshore waters, inhabiting areas such as channels, flats, and around structure such as jetties and piers. Port Isabel offers anglers ample opportunities to target black drum throughout much of the year, with peak seasons often occurring during the cooler months when these fish are more active and abundant.

During the spring and summer months, black drum become more active and migrate into shallower waters, including flats, marshes, and tidal creeks, in search of food. As water temperatures rise, black drum can be found actively feeding along the shoreline, particularly around structure such as jetties and docks, where they prey on crustaceans, mollusks, and small baitfish. Anglers targeting black drum during this season can expect to encounter schools of fish actively feeding and aggressively striking at baits and lures, making for exciting fishing experiences.

In the fall months, as temperatures begin to cool down and baitfish migrations occur, black drum continue to remain active along the coast of Port Isabel. Anglers targeting black drum in Port Isabel during the fall season may find success using a variety of techniques, including bottom fishing with live or cut bait, casting and retrieving with artificial lures, or sight fishing in shallow flats. With their impressive size and strength, black drum provide anglers with thrilling battles once hooked, adding to the allure of targeting these prized game fish in the waters surrounding Port Isabel.

What techniques are popular for catching black drum in Port Isabel?

Fishing for black drum in Port Isabel, Texas, requires a combination of patience, finesse, and the right techniques to successfully target these elusive and hard-fighting fish. One effective method is bottom fishing using heavy tackle and live or cut bait such as shrimp, crab, or mullet. Anglers often anchor their boats near structure such as docks, jetties, or bridges, where black drum are known to congregate. By dropping baits to the bottom and allowing them to drift naturally with the current, anglers can entice strikes from these powerful and resilient fish.

Another productive technique for targeting black drum in Port Isabel is sight casting. Anglers can actively search for black drum cruising along the shallow flats, marshes, and channels, particularly during the warmer months when they are more active. When a black drum is spotted, anglers can cast artificial lures such as soft plastics, spoons, or jigs directly in front of the fish, enticing it to strike. Sight casting requires keen observation and precise casting to present the lure effectively and trigger a reaction from the black drum.

In addition to bottom fishing and sight casting, anglers can also target black drum using live bait rigs or Carolina rigs, allowing baits to drift naturally along the bottom while remaining in contact with the rod. This method can be particularly effective when fishing in deeper channels or around submerged structure where black drum are known to feed. By employing a variety of techniques and adapting to changing conditions, anglers in Port Isabel can increase their chances of success and enjoy a rewarding fishing experience targeting black drum in the diverse waters of the Texas coast.

What other species are popular in Port Isabel?

Besides black drum, Port Isabel offers anglers a wide variety of fish species to target, ensuring there's always something exciting to catch. One popular species is the redfish, also known as red drum, which can be found in abundance in the shallow flats, marshes, and channels surrounding Port Isabel. Redfish are known for their powerful runs and hard-fighting nature, making them a favorite target among anglers. Using live or cut bait, as well as artificial lures such as spoons and soft plastics, anglers can successfully target redfish year-round, with peak seasons often occurring during the cooler months.

Another sought-after species in Port Isabel is the speckled trout, known for its delicious flavor and willingness to take a variety of baits and lures. Speckled trout inhabit a range of habitats, including flats, grassy shorelines, and channels, where they prey on small baitfish and crustaceans. Anglers targeting speckled trout in Port Isabel may find success using techniques such as live bait fishing, artificial lure casting, and fly fishing. With their willingness to take a variety of baits and lures and their tendency to congregate in shallow waters, speckled trout provide anglers with exciting fishing opportunities year-round.

In addition to redfish and speckled trout, Port Isabel offers opportunities to catch a variety of other inshore and nearshore species, including flounder, sheepshead, and mangrove snapper. Anglers can target these species using a range of techniques and fishing locations, from fishing along the shallow flats and grassy shorelines to targeting structure such as jetties, docks, and bridge pilings. Whether fishing from a boat, kayak, or the shoreline, anglers visiting Port Isabel can anticipate exciting encounters with a diverse array of fish species, adding to the allure of this popular fishing destination in the Gulf of Mexico.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    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. with Mike K. of South Padre Island, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Ruben was an awesome guide with lots of knowledge and got us on tons of fish during a tournament weekend! Would definitely book Ruben in the future!

    Brian M. with Ruben R. of South Padre Island, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip! Aaron did an amazing job.

    Andrew M. with Aaron W. of South Padre Island, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Was a great experience with captain Arnold he was very knowledgeable and was a great captain to be with …definitely would do it again made my son and I experience very pleasurable and a day to remember

    Antonio L. with Arnold L. of South Padre Island, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip super personable and knowledgeable definitely will book him again.

    Eddie P. with Arnold L. of South Padre Island, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Had a good time, caught some good fish,would definitely recommend,and do it again.Captain Mike, thanks 👍👍

    Jesus P. with Mike K. of South Padre Island, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Arnold and his son were fantastic! Their knowledge of fishing was second to none. Me and my son will always remember and treasure our experience with Captain Arnold. Thank you both for the wonderful experience!

    Kenneth T. with Arnold L. of South Padre Island, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time with Cliff. We requested to catch Trout and he put us on them right away. Very knowledgeable and willing to share information on how to catch the target species.

    John C. with Cliff F. of Port Isabel, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Very enjoyable Capt Ron looked after us in every way and was on top of where to go to catch what we were looking for. A great time and we will look for him again.

    Chuck M. with Ron M. of South Padre Island, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    I have fished all over the world and been a guide myself for many years and I would highly recommend the fishing experience Captain Russell provides. If you are wanting to take your family out for a great afternoon of fishing Captain Russell is who you need to book with hands down. He had us on fish early and often despite the windy conditions. My youngest, who is 7, caught his personal best on this trip. We will definitely be back to fish with Captain Russell again!

    Christopher T. with Russell R. of Port Isabel, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    What an outstanding time that we had with Captain Mike. This was our very first time boat fishing and we had done so at the request of my son for his 17th birthday. Captain Mike was incredibly accommodating, very easy to communicate with and more importantly knowledgeable when it comes to fishing. He was incredibly patient, taught each person in our group of four how to properly cast and really made sure that we had a good time (and also made sure we caught our limit, I have no doubt he would have stayed out there all day to make it happen.) I'm new at this but I am sure this is the type of experience you hope for with this sort of activity. Book this gut y'all. I PROMISE you that you will not be disappointed. Thanks again Captain Mike for a memorable experience!!!!!

    Joshua C. with Mike K. of South Padre Island, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Jonathan is an outstanding guide. He went out of his way to ensure we enjoyed the trip and patiently explained things multiple times when the kids didn't understand. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking to spend time fishing in the Port Isabel and South Padre area.

    Donald J. with Jonathan G. of South Padre Island, Texas

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

    Carson R. with Mike K. of South Padre Island, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Rueben did a great job!!! He put us on fish. You should try him out.

    Brian P. with Ruben G. of Port Isabel, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Really enjoyed the day! Ron was friendly right from first contact and professional as they come! We had remnants of a cold front but Ron still got us on some fish and multiple species! Great experience! Also booking the trip was easier than I expected. Thanks again! Tightlines!

    John H. with Ron M. of South Padre Island, Texas

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

    Scott D. with Mike K. of South Padre Island, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Cliff did a great job on finding fish to get our limit. He is very well experienced and professional.

    Matt S. with Cliff F. of Port Isabel, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    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. with Mike K. of South Padre Island, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Tough day fishing but very happy with Captain J. He worked hard to try to make things happen for us.

    Gary A. with J D. of South Padre Island, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    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. with Mike K. of South Padre Island, Texas

What's biting in Port Isabel?

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