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Damn Good Speckled Trout Fishing Charters

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Recently Booked Speckled Trout Fishing Charters

Fishing in Galveston

Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Galveston

Bay/Jetty Fun! - 33'

100% (4)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
Fishing in Corpus Christi

Flats, Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Corpus Christi

Morning Fishing Trip - 5 Hour

100% (6)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $575
Fishing in Galveston

Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Galveston

Galveston Jetty Roundup

100% (6)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
Fishing in Rockport

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Rockport

Inshore Guided Trip

100% (16)
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $550
Fishing in Key Largo

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Key Largo

Key Largo Adventure

100% (24)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
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

Top Cities for Speckled Trout Fishing

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Speckled Trout Fishing Charters

Fishing in Galveston
Fishing in Galveston
Fishing in Galveston
trip description for Bay/Jetty 32' in Galveston

7 hour trips only start in the morning at 7am! 4-hour trips start at 7am or 1pm. On these bay and jetty trips you'll be fishing comfortably aboard a big boat chasing flounder, sharks, jacks, stingray, oversized red fish, trout, spanish mackerel, black drum & other types of fish. Read More

Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Galveston

Bay/Jetty 32'

100% (4)
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
Fishing in Galveston
Fishing in Galveston
Fishing in Galveston
trip description for Bay/Jetty Fun! - 30' in Galveston

7 hour trips only start in the morning at 7am! 4-hour trips start at 7am or 1pm. On these bay and jetty trips you'll be fishing comfortably aboard a big boat chasing flounder, sharks, jacks, stingray, oversized red fish, trout, spanish mackerel, black drum & other types of fish. Read More

Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Galveston

Bay/Jetty Fun! - 30'

100% (4)
30 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
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 Galveston
Fishing in Galveston
Fishing in Galveston
trip description for Epic Jetty Trip - 21' Mako in Galveston

Climb aboard with Captain Meghan and explore the Jetties of Galveston Bay on her 21’ Mako! These charters are great for any level of fisherman, and especially for families with children. However, you must be at least five years old to ride this ride! On this trip, you'll target classic Texas sportfish, including Redfish, Speckled Trout, Black Drum, and even Sharks! Once you're off the dock, you'll head 5-6 miles out into the Gulf of Mexico, fishing both the North and South Jetties. These jetties are a perfect place for fish to congregate, so you can expect tons of rod-bending action once you're out there. Captain Meghan's 21' Mako center console can accommodate up to 6 people, so bring some friends! She'll provide all the gear you need, so all you need to show up with is a Texas Saltwater Fishing License, some food and drinks, and an ice box for your catch! Finally, you'll be able to purchase live bait for an additional fee. Captain Meghan and her crew will also clean and fillet your fish for you. We hope you have a good recipe for fish tacos! Read More

Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Galveston

Epic Jetty Trip - 21' Mako

97% (69)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $475
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
trip description for Hooks and Smiles - Kid’s Trip in Orange Beach

If your young anglers want to spend a day on the water hooking their first fish, this is the trip for you. Join Captain Don on this nearshore voyage designed to introduce your children to saltwater fishing in calm protected waters close to shore. Near Orange Beach, AL, there are plenty of fish to be caught including Black Drum, Ladyfish, Crab, and Trout. This is a trip that will stay with your kids forever and hopefully ignite a love for fishing. You and your family will also target Sheepshead and Skate on this short, 3 hour charter. It is a very manageable time so the young anglers don’t get fussy and Captain Don is great with kids, being a father himself. There is a possibility of seeing Dolphins, Sea Turtles, and Manatees as well, which can be a very exciting experience for children and adults alike. On this trip, you will be aboard a 25’ Carolina Skiff, powered by a 150HP Evinrude engine. The vessel provides a smooth ride through the calm waters, ensuring a safe and positive environment for your family. And not to worry–Captain Don provides all the light tackle and other equipment needed to hook fish as well as bottled water. All your family needs to bring for an unforgettable experience is snacks and excitement!..(catch & release) Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Hooks And Smiles - Kid’s Trip

100% (15)
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $450
Fishing in Corpus Christi
Fishing in Corpus Christi
Fishing in Corpus Christi
trip description for North Padre Texas Classic in Corpus Christi

Climb aboard with Captain Kevin and get ready for an action-packed day of fishing in Corpus Christi, Texas! Captain Kevin has a special eye for Redfish, Speckled Trout, Black Drum, and Flounder, so don’t be surprised when the fish start biting! He’ll help you reel ‘em all in throughout your 4-hour (half-day) or 7-hour (full day) expedition through Corpus Christi’s productive waters. Captain Kevin uses a 24’ Blazer Bay boat that accommodates up to 4 anglers. She features a wireless trolling motor, which won’t scare those easily spooked fish, a fishfinder, and a live bait well. Make sure you bring a valid Texas fishing license, some snacks, and an ice chest for your day’s catch. Captain Kevin will provide the rest - rods, reels, lures, live bait, and bottled water to keep you hydrated. Enjoy your day out on the water with Captain Kevin! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Corpus Christi

North Padre Texas Classic

100% (6)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $495
Fishing in Port St. Joe
Fishing in Port St. Joe
Fishing in Port St. Joe
trip description for Inshore Redfish Whacker in Port St. Joe

Hop on board with Captain Wilkin and prepare for an action-packed day fishing St. Josephs bay or further out on the Gulf Coasts near shore waters. On this 4, 6 and 8 hour fishing excursions, Captain Wilken will cruise you out into the St. Josephs Bay where you'll be targeting picturesque Redfish, Black Drum, Speckled Trout, and Flounder. All you'll need to get one of these fish on your line is some light tackle and artificial lures or live bait. Whichever fish you want to catch, Captain Wilkin will make sure you get the best setup, take you to his best spots, and give you some helpful pointers! Whether permitting, Captain Wilkin is also willing to push it a little further offshore to chase Tripletail. These trips are especially productive in the Summer months. If conditions are right, Captain Wilkin will recommend these kinds of trips when you meet up with him at the dock! On this trip you'll be aboard a 24’ Shallow Sport bay boat with a capacity for 6 people. A 225 HP Yamaha engine will get you exactly where the fish are biting in the bay! This do-it-all vessel is complete with GPS, Fishfinder, a Live Bait Well, a Wireless Trolling Motor, and an Ice Box to store your catches. Captain Wilkin will happily clean any keepers for no extra charge! Captain Wilkin will provide all rods, reels, tackle and live bait. All you need to bring is any food and drinks you might want out on the water. Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Port St. Joe

Inshore Redfish Whacker

NEW
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $400
See All Speckled Trout Trips

Everything to Know About Booking a speckled trout fishing charter

What are the best speckled trout fishing charters?

Why should I book a speckled trout fishing charter with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 920 speckled trout trips, and the most popular trips are Bay/Jetty Fun! - 33' guided by Jeff, Morning Fishing Trip - 5 hour guided by Shayne, and Galveston Jetty Roundup guided by Shannon.

Our guides are rated a 4.9 out of 5 based on 3281 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 speckled trout guides / fishing lessons? Check out our beginner and family friendly speckled trout guides.

What types of speckled trout fishing charters are common?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing for speckled trout as well as inshore fishing, flats fishing, and nearshore fishing.

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

How much do speckled trout fishing charters cost?

Prices for speckled trout can range anywhere from about $500 to $1,100, but the average price for a half day trip for speckled trout is $639. The average price for a full day trip for speckled trout is $1,036.

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 speckled trout fishing?

The most popular season for speckled trout fishing is summer, and most anglers book their trips 13 days in advance.

Do I need a fishing license for speckled trout and what are the bag limits for speckled trout?

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

What is a Speckled Trout

The Spotted Seatrout, Speckled Trout, or "Speck" (Cynoscion nebulosus) is a sport fish species that frequents inshore waters ranging from Massachusetts, down the East Coast, and around the Gulf of Mexico to the Yucatan Peninsula.

They are characterized by distinct black spots along their back and dorsal fins, surprisingly large teeth, and bright yellow skin on the inside of their mouths.

Contrary to popular belief given their name and resemblance, the speckled trout is a member of the drum family, not the freshwater trout family.

How big do Speckled Trout get?

The size of speckled trout largely depends on their sex. The average weight for males and females is between 1-2 pounds, but in many areas, fish weighing up to 5 pounds are common. The average male speckled trout is around 19 inches long, while the average female is around 25 inches long. Females grow quicker and larger than males, and can live to be 10 years old, more than double the average age for males.

What is the biggest Speckled Trout ever caught?

The current International Game Fish Association, or IFGA, all-tackle world record was set in 2015 on the Indian River flats near Melbourne on the east coast of Florida. The specimen weighed in at 17.7 pounds, and was 34.25 inches long, over 10 centimeters longer than the previous record set in 1995. The fish was caught using live mullet on a light spinning rod.

Large female trophy trout are often referred to as "gator trout" or "gators" depending on local vernacular.

Where is the best place to catch speckled trout?

Speckled trout are an estuarine fish, meaning that they live in the inshore waters typically located between the mainland and barrier islands. In temperate climates, speckled trout typically frequent water less than 10 feet deep. Look for grass beds, oyster bars, mud flats, and stump fields. During the winter months and after cold fronts, speckled trout seek refuge from the cold water in deeper channels and basins, and follow baitfish into the shallows wherever present. Don't be afraid to go shallow! Often the biggest "gators" are caught in water waist-deep or shallower.

As a general rule of thumb, look out for areas where the trout can ambush their prey. Grass beds, depressions in the coastline, areas where the current breaks and slows, and underwater structure located in basins and channels produce the best results. Irregularities in the water's surface and birds flying overhead are dead giveaways of bait activity, and are often a good indicator of where the trout are.

You can catch speckled trout in any inshore fishery in the Gulf of Mexico, and going up the Atlantic coast of Florida and into North Carolina. While they're present in Chesapeake Bay, their numbers dwindle as you go further north. Locations like Matagorda and Laguna Madre in Texas and Calcasieu Lake in Louisiana are trophy trout havens.

When should I catch Speckled Trout

One of the great things about fishing for speckled trout is they can be caught year round. Even better yet, when the winter comes around and other fish head for deeper waters, speckled trout remain in the easily accessible shallows. In the winter time, be on the lookout for an overcast day, especially in areas with clear water. Specks, especially big ones, feed more actively in low-light conditions.

In the winter, big trout aren't afraid to chase their prey into the shallowest of waters. If you're duck hunting, odds are there are big trout right under the surface. Big trout can be caught in the summer near the mouths of tidewater drainage creeks. They tend to seek refuge from the heat in grass beds and deeper holes, so be on the lookout for these when fishing during a hot summer day.

How do you catch Speckled Trout

Techniques for catching speckled trout vary greatly given location, weather/tidal patterns, and time of year. Speckled trout generally feed when tidal movement moves baitfish, so keeping an eye on tidal charts is a must. Catching the outgoing tide is a great start.

Speckled trout fishing can be done by boat, from the shore, or wading in the shallows. There are pros and cons with each of them. Using a shallow flats boat, a silent trolling motor or a pole to move through the water allows you to cover more water, but leaves the possibility of spooking the fish. Fishing from the shore or a pier is simple and easy, but you won't have access to the prime backwater fishing grounds. Wading allows you to maintain a low profile and stalk your quarry, but requires extra equipment and you won't cover as much water.

Lures and baits for speckled trout vary as well. For big "gator trout", it's tough to beat shrimp and mullet (dead or alive) under a popping cork. Varying the retrieve on a popping cork simulates live action of your bait. For those looking for artificial action, jigged artificial plastics work well, especially in deeper waters. For the lure fisherman, Corky's, Heddon Zara Spooks and spoons do the trick. A slow retrieve imitating a dying baitfish produces the best results.

Once you hook up, don't try to muscle the fish in. Keep the drag tight and let her tire out. Once you land her, grab the caudal (tail) fin and support the fish just behind the gills. Snap a pic, and put her back in the water until she swims away. The big trout are female breeders, and releasing them safely ensures more big trout for years to come.

Are Speckled Trout good to eat? What are the best Speckled Trout recipes?

Speckled trout make for excellent table fare. Famous chef Emeril Lagasse once said speckled trout is the best eating fish in North America, and for good reason. The meat is often characterized as flaky and white, with a sweet and buttery finish. This flavor profile makes speckled trout a very versatile fish to cook. The most common way to cook speckled trout is to bread the filets and fry them. From there, you can finish it off with a garlic lemon sauce, throw some capers in the mix for a briny taste, or top it off with a creole sauce like Emeril's recipe.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Marty was a fantastic guide! Knew exactly where the fish were. Great time will definitely use again! Thanks for a great trip!

    Brandon W. with Marty C. of Gulf Shores, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Tim was great! He was knowledgeable and patient with us. He made sure my kids had an amazing experience and I would highly recommend. We will be back for a longer trip next time! Thank you Captain Tim!

    Beth F. with Tim B. of Gulf Shores, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    The trip with Captain Izzy on 7/20 was outstanding. I could have not picked a better guide for my experience. Captain Izzy was a pleasure to fish with, very knowledgeable and will without a doubt book a trip with him again the next time I’m in the Galveston area. Captain Izzy is very professional, the boat was immaculate, the gear provided was top notch. I only have exceptionally good words to say about my trip with him. I look forward to fishing with him again. Thank you Captain Izzy for an outstanding morning.

    Steven W. with Isidro M. of Galveston, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Cole was AWESOME! I went with my wife and 2 young kids (ages 5 and 7). He was very helpful and patient with them. We covered a lot of water as well as Cole navigated us to all the good spots. Thanks a lot for the knowledge and fun times, Cole !

    Thomas D. with Cole O. of St. Augustine, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip this morning. Captain is friendly and knowledgeable. Thanks for the fishing

    Robert E. with David S. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome guide!! Very knowledgeable and friendly... it was a great experience for all who went!!!

    Debbie N. with Jason G. of Elberta, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    James did an excellent job. The fishing was very slow during the day but he kept us moving in an effort to find them which we eventually did. Both of us ended the day with our limits. Easy to talk too. Very knowledgeable. Would definitely recommend him to anyone and I’m planing to go with him again next time.

    Jason H. with James W. of Rockport, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Had a redfish trip with Captain Rich on 7-17-24. We had some thunder storms in the area but he was able to navigate around the to get to the first spot. He could tell we were fairly experienced and offered us great advice on how to get on them. When the storms started moving in he took us to a different place. We slayed them! Rich was super knowledgeable and an outstanding guide. Can’t wait for next time.

    Logan B. with Rich M. of Boothville-Venice, Louisiana

  • ★★★★★
    Went out with rich , 6 of us total and his boat fit us all well. Limits of red fish with a few other species mixed in . Great captain knew where the fish were , will definitely go with rich again. Tony

    Logan B. with Rich M. of Boothville-Venice, Louisiana

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip alot of fun The guide was great will do again

    Dianna C. with Jeff N. of Galveston, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Capt rich was very communicative with pick up and knew exactly where the fish were! Only took us about 3-4 hours to get a 6 man red limit. Great company too to have on board as a capt. Will be back for sure!

    Logan B. with Rich M. of Boothville-Venice, Louisiana

  • ★★★★★
    Jake was an awesome guide. He knew his shit about the area and got us on fish on a fun bay trip to take our son out and see how’d he do with bigger water fishing. We will for sure be back to go out deep sea fishing with him next time.

    Jordan K. with Jake D. of Pensacola, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    This trip was so fun, we caught snapper, gafftop, and 2 stingrays, and one was a monster. Andrew knew where to go and his boat was very nice, he’s the best hype man too, always excited when a fish is on! Jeff was the bomb. He made sure we always had our lines ready and in the water and helped us pull up them Rays when our arms were wore out!

    Katelyn B. with Andrew N. of Corpus Christi, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    This was our first experience and it was absolutely perfect! My husband and I didn’t catch a fish, but my husband caught a shark! Captain Ronnie made it an experience we will never forget. He was courteous, knowledgeable, and didn’t mind that we were inexperienced. Loved it!!

    Linda R. with Ronald D. of Gulf Shores, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Enjoyed my first trip after being in the hospital for nearly a year. Caught some nice trout and had a great time. Thanks Capt Frank!

    Jack M. with Frank D. of Grand Isle, Louisiana

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip with Captain Donald!! We caught a lot of fish and had a great time!! Highly recommend!!

    James L. with Donald R. of Orange Beach, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Kids learned so much on their first ever Charter! Lots of fish caught and fun times were had!! Captain Mike knew where to catch today!!

    Robbin C. with Michael W. of Sebastian, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip with great captain...Lots of fish on a cloudy morning.

    Ken S. with Tim R. of Naples, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    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. with Alana S. of Port Isabel, Texas

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