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Damn Good Black Drum Fishing Charters In South Padre Island

Check real-time availability on South Padre Island black drum fishing trips. Online booking | 4.85 / 5 stars | Guides from $475

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Recently Booked Black Drum Fishing Charters Near South Padre Island, Tx

Fishing in South Padre Island

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Laguna Madre Drift

100% (22)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in South Padre Island

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Full Or Half Day Inshore

100% (6)
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $425
Fishing in South Padre Island

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

SPI Classic

77% (13)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
Fishing in South Padre Island

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

South Padre Flats Fishing

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 5 People From $425
Damn Good
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Fishing in South Padre Island

Flats, Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

South Padre Island Bay Fishing

100% (3)
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $475
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 South Padre Island

Flats, Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Fun Family Fishing At SPI

100% (9)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $525

Most Popular Types of Black Drum Trips in South Padre Island

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Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Black Drum Fishing Charters Near South Padre Island, Tx

Fishing in South Padre Island
Fishing in South Padre Island
Fishing in South Padre Island
trip description for South Padre Bay Fishing in South Padre Island

Captain Jonathan is an excellent guide to the calm waters off South padre Island. He's been fishing here for decades, and knows how to get you on great fish, whether you're going for a trophy Red or just looking to have some fun with your family and friends. The Laguna Madre is a unique environment that is ideal for Redfish, Spotted Trout, Flounder, and Drum. On this trip, you're free to keep your keepers or return them to the water. You'll get out there aboard Captain Jonathan's fast, sleek 25' torrent cat 5 bay boat, which can comfortable seat up to 6 guests. She's driven by a 200-HP Suzuki engine, I put so you'll be out on the prime fishing spots quickly. The boat also sports a live well for bait, and standard electronics to help you hook 'em! Captain Jonathan will supply all the rods, reels, bait and tackle. Just bring your Texas fishing licenses, sunscreen, and proper clothing and you'll be all set! Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

South Padre Bay Fishing

100% (2)
23 ft 1 - 5 People From $475
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 South Padre Island
Fishing in South Padre Island
Fishing in South Padre Island
trip description for Half Day Private Bay Fishing Trip in South Padre Island

Half day private bay fishing charter (5hrs) at South Padre Island, Texas. Targeting primarily redfish and speckled trout with various fishing techniques from artificial baits, fresh cut ,and/or live baits. Sometimes target snook, black drum, sheep’s head, and triple tail if conditions and seasonality are present. Currently running a 24 ft Shallow Stalker boat equipped with a Suzuki 175 and a Minn Kota trolling motor. Over 20 years local fishing experience here a South Padre. Family friendly and kid tested. Amateur to avid anglers are welcome. So let’s go fishing! Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Half Day Private Bay Fishing Trip

100% (9)
24 ft 1 - 2 People From $525
Fishing in South Padre Island
Fishing in South Padre Island
Fishing in South Padre Island
trip description for Primetime Fishing Family-friendly in South Padre Island

We will target red fish, Speckled Trout, black drum, Mangrove Snappers, sand trout sheephead and whiting. Not all at once but when the possible. Leave the dock at 7:15am and fish till 12:15pm 5 hour trip. Fish on my Shallow Sport 21' bay boat with a 200hp Yamaha. Fish different spots along the bay either anchored or drift fishing. Using fresh dead bait, live bait and live shrimp. While traveling to different fishing spots you will see beautiful scenery and occasionally dolphins 🐬 Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Primetime Fishing Family-friendly

NEW
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $475
Fishing in South Padre Island
Fishing in South Padre Island
Fishing in South Padre Island
trip description for AM and PM Private Bay Fishing Trips in South Padre Island

Hello, I supply water Gatorade top of the line fishing equipment bait lures. Croaker is an additional cost we can discuss that upon booking. I fish all over South Padre island and up north also the back bays lots of scenery birds to see. You can bring any additional beverages snacks sunglasses sunscreen and a hand towel also bring a small cooler leave it in your car so you can take your so when we return you can take your catch with you. Read More

Flats, Jetty Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

AM And PM Private Bay Fishing Trips

NEW
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Fishing in South Padre Island
Fishing in South Padre Island
Fishing in South Padre Island
trip description for Laguna Madre Hookfest in South Padre Island

Head out on the productive waters of South Texas with Captain Kevin to hook into all kinds of inshore sportfish. South Padre Island is known for its wide variety of fun saltwater species and Captain Kevin knows how to catch them all! So, whether you're looking to catch limits and dinner, or chase down your next trophy Redfish or Snook, Capt. Kevin will help you make the most out of your time out on the water. Captain Kevin also caters to a wide variety of fishing techniques. From throwing artificial lures and live bait on light tackle, to drift fishing the bays and bottom fishing, he is willing to work with your goals for the day, and he will offer his expert recommendations based on the weather and tides to help you make the right choice. Your vessel for the day will be a 22' Shoalwater center console that can take up to 4 people, equipped with a 150 HP Yamaha to get you on the fish quickly and safely. Captain Kevin will supply you with all the rods, reels, tackle, water, and knowledge necessary to ensure a successful day out on the water. So all you need to bring are your favorite snacks and beverages and your Texas fishing license and let Captain Kevin take care of the rest for you! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Laguna Madre Hookfest

NEW
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed / operated by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in South Padre Island
Fishing in South Padre Island
Fishing in South Padre Island
trip description for Laguna Madre Magic in South Padre Island

Head out to explore the Lower Laguna Madre aboard Captain J's 22' center console Lake and Bay with a Mercury 300 outboard motor. It fishes 2-3 people very comfortably. I supply all of the fishing equipment and bait, all the customer needs is a valid Texas saltwater fishing license and their choice of food and drinks. We fish for Redfish, Speckled Sea Trout, Black Drum, Sheepshead, and Flounder in the Laguna Madre Bay and troll for King Mackerel near the jetties and near shore. Read More

Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Laguna Madre Magic

100% (3)
22 ft 1 - 3 People From $250
See All Black Drum Trips in South Padre Island

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Everything to Know About Booking a South Padre Island black drum fishing charter

What are the best black drum fishing charters in South Padre Island?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 33 black drum trips in South Padre Island, and the most popular trips in the area are Laguna Madre Drift guided by Ron, Full or Half Day Inshore guided by Arturo, and SPI Classic guided by Aaron.

Our guides in South Padre Island are rated a 4.85 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 South Padre Island? Check out our beginner and family friendly black drum guides in South Padre Island.

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

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

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

How much do South Padre Island black drum fishing charters cost?

Prices for black drum in South Padre Island can range anywhere from about $475 to $980, but the average price for a half day trip for black drum in South Padre Island is $618. The average price for a full day trip for black drum in South Padre Island is $863.

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 South Padre Island?

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

Do I need a South Padre Island fishing license for black drum and what are the bag limits for black drum 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 black drum fishing in South Padre Island all about?

Black drum, a close relative of red drum, are a prevalent and sought-after species in the waters around South Padre Island, Texas. These robust fish are known for their large size, with some specimens weighing over 50 pounds, and their ability to put up a formidable fight when hooked. Black drum can be found in a variety of habitats, including shallow flats, channels, and around structure such as docks and jetties. Anglers visiting South Padre Island often target black drum for their impressive size and tasty flesh.

One effective technique for targeting black drum in South Padre Island is bottom fishing with natural baits such as shrimp, crab, or cut bait. Anglers typically rig their bait on a stout hook and present it on or near the bottom in areas where black drum are known to feed. Fishing around structure such as oyster beds, rock piles, or submerged debris can increase the chances of encountering black drum, as these fish often seek out cover while foraging for food.

Another popular method for black drum fishing in South Padre Island is sight fishing in shallow flats and marshy areas. Anglers use polarized sunglasses to spot cruising black drum and present them with small live or artificial baits. This technique requires stealth and patience but can be highly rewarding when anglers successfully sight-cast to a trophy-sized black drum. With their impressive size and challenging fight, black drum provide anglers in South Padre Island with an exciting and memorable fishing experience.

What are the most popular months to fish for black drum fishing in South Padre Island?

In South Padre Island, Texas, the black drum fishing season offers anglers opportunities throughout the year, with certain times being more productive than others. Generally, the black drum season in South Padre Island peaks during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. As water temperatures rise, black drum become more active and move into shallower waters, making them more accessible to anglers targeting them from both shore and boat.

Spring marks the beginning of the black drum season in South Padre Island, with fish transitioning from deeper waters to shallower flats, channels, and nearshore areas. During this time, black drum feed voraciously, preparing for spawning season, and anglers can enjoy excellent action targeting these prized fish. As summer progresses, black drum fishing remains productive, with anglers finding success using a variety of techniques such as bottom fishing with natural baits or sight casting in shallow flats.

In the fall, as water temperatures begin to cool, black drum fishing in South Padre Island can still be fruitful, although fish may start to move into deeper waters as they seek out warmer temperatures. However, with the right strategies and techniques, anglers can continue to catch black drum throughout the fall season. Overall, understanding the seasonal patterns and behaviors of black drum is key to maximizing success and enjoying a rewarding fishing experience in South Padre Island's rich and fertile waters.

What techniques are popular for catching black drum in South Padre Island?

Black drum fishing in South Padre Island, Texas, requires anglers to employ a variety of techniques to successfully target these robust and hard-fighting fish. One effective method is bottom fishing using natural baits such as shrimp, crab, or cut bait. Anglers typically rig their bait on a stout hook and present it on or near the bottom in areas where black drum are known to congregate, such as around docks, jetties, or submerged structure. Patience is key when bottom fishing for black drum, as these fish can be selective feeders and may require some enticing to strike.

Another popular technique for black drum fishing in South Padre Island is sight casting in shallow flats and marshy areas. Anglers use polarized sunglasses to spot cruising black drum and present them with small live or artificial baits. This method requires stealth and precision casting, as black drum can be wary and easily spooked in shallow water. Anglers must carefully approach their target and make accurate presentations to entice a strike from these elusive fish.

Additionally, anglers can target black drum using artificial lures such as soft plastics, swimbaits, or jigs. When fishing with lures, anglers often mimic the movement of natural prey to attract black drum. Slow and steady retrieves, as well as occasional pauses, can help entice strikes from these opportunistic feeders. Anglers should experiment with different lure colors, sizes, and presentations to determine what works best in the current conditions. With the right techniques and tactics, anglers in South Padre Island can enjoy exciting and rewarding black drum fishing experiences throughout the year.

What other species are popular in South Padre Island?

While black drum fishing in South Padre Island offers anglers an exciting challenge, there's a diverse array of other fish species to pursue, ensuring a varied and rewarding fishing experience. One popular species to target is the red snapper, known for its delicious flavor and impressive fighting ability. These prized fish inhabit the deeper offshore waters around South Padre Island and are often targeted using bottom fishing techniques with live or cut bait. Red snapper season in the Gulf of Mexico typically runs from June to August, providing ample opportunities for anglers to hook into some impressive catches.

Another sought-after species in South Padre Island is the speckled trout, also known as spotted seatrout. These predatory fish can be found in the shallow flats, grass beds, and estuaries throughout the area, offering anglers plenty of opportunities for exciting light tackle action. Using live bait such as shrimp or finger mullet, as well as artificial lures like soft plastics or topwater plugs, anglers can target speckled trout with great success. Speckled trout are prized for their acrobatic leaps when hooked, adding an extra thrill to any fishing excursion in South Padre Island.

In addition to black drum, red snapper, and speckled trout, South Padre Island offers opportunities to target a variety of other species, including king mackerel, snook, flounder, and tarpon, among others. Whether fishing from shore, a pier, or a boat, anglers visiting South Padre Island can enjoy the thrill of targeting a diverse array of fish species in the rich and fertile waters of the Gulf of Mexico. With its abundance of fish species and diverse fishing environments, South Padre Island is a prime destination for anglers looking to experience the excitement of saltwater fishing in Texas.

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

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Amazing Captain! Work to get us on the fish fish. Great equipment and attitude, lots of fun. Best captain I have booked in south padre.

    Wesley W. with Jaime D. of Port Isabel, Texas

What's biting in South Padre Island?

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