Damn Good Kingfish Fishing Charters In South Padre Island

Check real-time availability and compare rates on South Padre Island kingfish fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

Choose a Date
4.85/5 Average Rating

Damn Good Guides

Experts Available 24/7

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Kingfish Fishing Charters In South Padre Island, Tx

Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

South Padre Island Deep Sea

94% (16)
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,380
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Hot Reels In South Padre

100% (6)
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,150
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

SPI Bottom Fishing And Jigging

100% (6)
25 ft 1 - 5 People From $600
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Classic 8 Hour Offshore

100% (2)
26 ft 1 - 8 People From $1,540
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

South Texas Offshore Adventure

100% (6)
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,540
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Laguna Madre Magic

100% (3)
22 ft 1 - 3 People From $250

Top Types of Kingfish Trips in South Padre Island

“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 South Padre Island

View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • 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 Kingfish Fishing Charters In South Padre Island, Tx

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter near South Padre Island

Lower Laguna Madre Adventure

100% (5)
25 ft 1 - 5 People From $500
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter near South Padre Island

South Padre Island Dolphin Tour

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

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near South Padre Island

Half-day - 21’ Shallow Stalker

100% (1)
21 ft 1 - 6 People From $575
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Laguna Madre Magic

100% (3)
22 ft 1 - 3 People From $250
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

South Texas Offshore Adventure

100% (6)
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,540
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Classic 8 Hour Offshore

100% (2)
26 ft 1 - 8 People From $1,540
See All Kingfish Trips in South Padre Island

Other Trips in South Padre Island

Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Private Snook Fishing Trip

100% (11)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $575
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Triple Delight - 3 Person Bay Trip

100% (11)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $525
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Bay Fishing

NEW
23 ft 1 - 10 People From $525
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Duck Hunting Trip in South Padre Island

Bay Duck Hunting Trip

100% (11)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Bay Fishing

NEW
24 ft 1 - 8 People From $600
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Half Day Private Bay Fishing Trip

100% (11)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $525
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

AM And PM Private Bay Fishing Trips

NEW
24 ft 1 - 8 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

Fly Or Conventional Sight Fishing

NEW
18 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

SPI Classic

77% (13)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $475
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Duck Hunting Trip in South Padre Island

Laguna Madre Duck Hunt

100% (11)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

SPI Classic Charter Trip

NEW
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

SPI Drift Trip

100% (5)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $550

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a South Padre Island kingfish fishing charter

What are the best kingfish fishing charters in South Padre Island?

The best kingfish fishing charters in South Padre Island are:

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 10 kingfish trips in South Padre Island, and the most popular trips in the area are South Padre Island Deep Sea guided by Emilio, Hot Reels in South Padre guided by JW, and SPI Bottom Fishing and Jigging guided by Augustin.

Our guides in South Padre Island are rated a 4.85 out of 5 based on 3716 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 kingfish guides / fishing lessons in South Padre Island? Check out our beginner and family friendly kingfish guides in South Padre Island.

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

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

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

How much do South Padre Island kingfish fishing charters cost?

Prices for kingfish in South Padre Island can range anywhere from about $400 to $2,920, but the average price for a half day trip for kingfish in South Padre Island is $585. The average price for a full day trip for kingfish in South Padre Island is $1,566.

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 kingfish fishing in South Padre Island?

The most popular season for kingfish fishing in South Padre Island is summer, and most anglers book their trips 21 days in advance.

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

In South Padre Island, Texas, kingfish, also known as king mackerel, are a highly sought-after species among anglers due to their impressive size and thrilling fights. These powerful predators inhabit the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, where they can be found patrolling offshore reefs, wrecks, and ledges. South Padre Island's proximity to deep-water channels and productive fishing grounds makes it an ideal destination for anglers looking to target kingfish.

Anglers in South Padre Island employ a variety of techniques to catch kingfish, depending on the time of year and prevailing conditions. Trolling is a popular method for targeting kingfish, with anglers pulling rigged baits or lures behind their boats at varying depths to entice strikes. Live bait such as cigar minnows, mullet, or ribbonfish are commonly used to tempt kingfish into biting, while artificial lures such as spoons, plugs, and skirted trolling lures can also be effective.

During the spring and fall months, kingfish migrate along the Texas coast, passing through South Padre Island in significant numbers. This seasonal movement provides anglers with prime opportunities to hook into trophy-sized kingfish. Many fishing charters in South Padre Island specialize in targeting kingfish, offering expert guidance and top-of-the-line equipment to help anglers maximize their chances of success. Whether fishing from a private boat or joining a guided charter, anglers visiting South Padre Island can look forward to exhilarating battles with these formidable game fish.

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

In South Padre Island, Texas, the seasons play a significant role in the availability and activity of kingfish, also known as king mackerel, offering anglers distinct opportunities throughout the year. Spring marks the beginning of the prime kingfish season in South Padre Island, as these migratory fish begin their northward journey along the Texas coast. During this time, kingfish can be found in abundance offshore, patrolling nearshore reefs, oil rigs, and underwater structures in search of baitfish. Anglers targeting kingfish in the spring often enjoy consistent action and the chance to hook into trophy-sized specimens.

Summer brings continued opportunities for kingfish fishing in South Padre Island, with these powerful predators remaining active in the warm Gulf waters. While kingfish may move to deeper offshore areas as temperatures rise, they can still be found patrolling nearshore waters, particularly around productive fishing spots such as artificial reefs and wrecks. Anglers can expect thrilling battles and exciting catches as they target kingfish using a variety of techniques, including trolling, live bait fishing, and drifting.

As fall approaches, kingfish fishing in South Padre Island reaches its peak, with the fish continuing their migration along the coast. During this time, kingfish gather in large numbers offshore, providing anglers with unparalleled opportunities to hook into these prized game fish. Whether fishing from private boats or joining guided charters, anglers in South Padre Island can take advantage of the fall kingfish run to enjoy exhilarating battles and memorable fishing experiences in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

What techniques are popular for catching kingfish in South Padre Island?

In South Padre Island, Texas, anglers employ a variety of effective techniques to target kingfish, also known as king mackerel, in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. One popular method among anglers is trolling, where boats pull rigged baits or lures behind them at varying depths to entice strikes from kingfish. Live bait such as cigar minnows, mullet, or ribbonfish are commonly used for trolling, while artificial lures such as spoons, plugs, and skirted trolling lures can also be effective. Anglers often vary their trolling speed and direction to cover a wide area and locate active kingfish.

Another successful technique for kingfish fishing in South Padre Island is live bait fishing, particularly around offshore structures such as reefs, wrecks, and oil rigs. Anglers deploy live baitfish such as mullet, menhaden, or blue runners either free-lined or on weighted rigs to entice kingfish into biting. The key is to present the bait at the right depth and in the right location where kingfish are likely to be feeding. Anglers may also chum the water to attract kingfish and create a feeding frenzy, increasing the chances of hooking into these powerful predators.

Drifting is also a popular technique for targeting kingfish in South Padre Island, especially when fishing over productive offshore reefs or ledges. Anglers drift with the current while presenting live baits or lures at various depths to cover a wide area and locate active kingfish. This method allows anglers to explore different areas and adjust their presentation based on the behavior of the fish, increasing their chances of success throughout the day. By employing a combination of trolling, live bait fishing, and drifting techniques, anglers in South Padre Island can enjoy thrilling kingfish fishing experiences in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

What other species are popular in South Padre Island?

In addition to targeting kingfish, anglers in South Padre Island, Texas, have a diverse range of other species to pursue, enhancing their fishing adventures in the region's rich waters. One popular catch among anglers is the red snapper, prized for its delicious taste and challenging fights. These colorful fish inhabit the offshore reefs and wrecks of the Gulf of Mexico, where anglers can target them using live bait, cut bait, or artificial lures. Red snapper season in South Padre Island typically runs from June to August, providing anglers with ample opportunities to hook into these prized bottom-dwellers.

Another sought-after species in South Padre Island is the mahi-mahi, also known as dolphin fish or dorado. These vibrant and acrobatic fish are found offshore in the warm Gulf waters, where they are often targeted by anglers trolling with rigged baits or lures. Mahi-mahi are known for their dazzling colors and high-flying antics when hooked, providing anglers with thrilling battles and memorable catches. With their tasty flesh and exciting fights, mahi-mahi add an exciting element to fishing trips in South Padre Island.

South Padre Island also offers opportunities to target a variety of other species, including amberjack, grouper, snapper, wahoo, tuna, and cobia, among others. Whether fishing from a private boat, charter, or from shore, anglers can enjoy a diverse range of fishing experiences in South Padre Island's coastal waters. With its rich biodiversity and abundant fishing opportunities, South Padre Island provides anglers with endless opportunities to pursue their favorite species and create lasting memories on the water.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Absolutely blast with “Capi”. Knows where the fish area and is an all around fun time. Caught our limit within an hour.

    Jacob G. | August 16, 2024

    Trip: SPI Bottom Fishing and Jigging

  • ★★★★★
    The captain and deck mate were excellent. Took two boys out for their first off shore trip and they are still talking about how much fun they had. I highly recommend this guide definitely worth the price.

    Jerad H. | July 27, 2024

    Trip: South Padre Island Deep Sea

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Augustin was amazing! Even with bad weather the previous two days he put us on fish all day! Took great care of my son on his first trip ever and taught him a lot!

    Elton C. | July 24, 2024

    Trip: SPI Bottom Fishing and Jigging

  • ★★★★★
    We had the most amazing trip of a lifetime! Captain Augustine was great! He put us right on the fish. Not only did we catch some big fish we saw dolphins and had a great time. He was especially patient and kind with my kids and helped them land some big snapper. This was definitely the trip of a lifetime thanks to a great Captain!!!

    Vanessa P. | July 18, 2024

    Trip: Snapper Season Baby!!!

  • ★★★★★
    Ladies loved the trip and caught big fish. One trout was 24" and was released due to conservation rules. One of our reds needed a tag to keep. Highly recommend Alana as a fun and knowledgeable fishing guide in SPI.

    Rick J. | July 15, 2024

    Trip: Lower Laguna Madre Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Augustin was excellent! He got us right on the fish immediately. It was a good day and I would highly recommend!! Thank you Augustin!! Can’t wait for the next time.

    Jessica V. | July 10, 2024

    Trip: Snapper Season Baby!!!

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Emilio & Jesse were great! We caught red snapper and had a blast! Waters were a little rough but still had a blast! definitely recommend!

    Ashley L. | June 30, 2024

    Trip: South Padre Island Deep Sea

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time! Emilio and Jesse did everything they could to get us some fish despite some difficult circumstances that were out of everyone’s control. We would definitely book this fishing trip again.

    Chris L. | June 29, 2024

    Trip: South Padre Island Deep Sea

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Alana was a joy to fish with. She’s knowledgeable and fun. Highly recommend.

    Kory U. | June 16, 2024

    Trip: Lower Laguna Madre Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time both AJ and Captain JW were great. I would definitely recommend

    Rene O. | June 15, 2024

    Trip: Hot Reels in South Padre

  • ★★★★★
    Great crew very interactive with the guests. JW and AJ were great and put us on the fish

    Aaron S. | June 12, 2024

    Trip: South Texas Offshore Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    I can’t explain how amazing this trip was! Everyone was so sweet and helpful. We got some awesome fish. Our family is so grateful for the amazing experience.

    Alisa J. | April 4, 2024

    Trip: South Padre Island Deep Sea

  • ★★★★★
    I hate reviews that don’t give you all the info you need. Emilio and his crew hand did a great job they brought us to a few spot that put us on 5-10 fish at a time the boat got us where we needed to go 5-10 miles out from the docks the squid bate was decent the rods were all usable there was a restroom on board In all especially for the price I would definitely take this charter again during the summer!!! Timing matters when fishing!

    Brayden L. | March 11, 2024

    Trip: South Padre Island Deep Sea

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

    Gary A. | January 7, 2024

    Trip: Laguna Madre Magic

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Alana was awesome! Very professional, had the boat clean and gear ready to go as soon as we got to the dock we were off. Boat was good size had plenty of room for everyone to walk around. Even took us close to the launch site to see the Space X Starship. She was constantly on the phone with other guides trying to find the best bite possible. We caught Speckled Trout, large Catfish and saw a bunch of large red drums but even hitting them in the head with the bait they wouldn't bite... Had a weather change and rockets going off in the area so may have had something to do with it. But we were the only boat that day really catching anything. I would highly recommend Captain Alana. Will decently book her for future visits to go Tarpon Fishing!!!

    Bret S. | November 28, 2023

    Trip: Lower Laguna Madre Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Really fun...j put us on some fish. Trout and a great snook

    Scott V. | October 21, 2023

    Trip: Laguna Madre Magic

  • ★★★★★
    Captain J was exceptional! He was on time, he knew the best fishing spots and he cast out for my wife the entire time. He took us on a tour of places to visit on the water. We appreciated every thing about this charter thanks to Captain J. Good Job!

    Ken B. | September 5, 2023

    Trip: Laguna Madre Magic

  • ★★★★★
    Our fishing trip on the Chachi was amazing! Emilio and his deckhand, Logan, were friendly and put us on the fish.

    Kerri F. | September 3, 2023

    Trip: South Padre Island Deep Sea

  • ★★★★★
    Great Captain who knew the area and the fishing holes! We caught a lot of fish!! I would definitely book Augustin again!

    Son N. | August 30, 2023

    Trip: Snapper Season Baby!!!

  • ★★★★★
    The trip was amazing! We all had a wonderful time, & the captain & mate were very helpful. They also answered all of our questions throughout the day. Even my son who was seasick the whole time said he was glad he went.

    Ann-Marie R. | August 10, 2023

    Trip: South Padre Island Deep Sea

What's biting in South Padre Island?

View Kingfish Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick each and every one of them, and our network spans all across the US and beyond.

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 Kingfish Trips in South Padre Island