Expert-Guided South Padre Inshore Fishing Adventure

South Padre's Afternoon Redfish & Flounder Bonanza

Ready for some rod-bending action in the Lone Star State? Capt. Makiolke's got you covered with this half-day adventure that'll have you chasing reds and flounder in the rich waters of South Padre Island. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this trip's perfect for anyone looking to experience some of the best inshore fishing Texas has to offer. We'll hit prime spots where the fish are biting, and you'll get the chance to reel in some impressive catches before the sun sets over the Gulf.

Trip Overview

Hop aboard for a 5-hour fishing extravaganza that kicks off in the afternoon, when the South Padre waters come alive. We'll cruise through the Laguna Madre, hitting honey holes where redfish and flounder love to hang out. The shallow, grass-filled flats and deeper channels around the island create a perfect playground for these sought-after species. You'll be using light tackle, which means even the smaller fish put up a fun fight. The boat's set up for two anglers, so you'll get plenty of one-on-one time with the captain to hone your skills. Don't worry about bringing gear – we've got you covered with quality rods, reels, and bait. Just bring your game face and maybe a cold drink or two for the ride.

What to Expect on the Water

Once we push off, we'll head to some tried-and-true spots where the fish have been active. We might start by drifting over some grass flats, tossing soft plastics or live bait to entice those redfish. If the tide's right, we could find ourselves sight-casting to tailing reds – a heart-pounding experience even for veteran anglers. For flounder, we'll work the drop-offs and channel edges, using a slow retrieve to tempt these bottom-dwellers. The captain's got a few tricks up his sleeve, like using popping corks for speckled trout if they're in the mix. Throughout the trip, you'll pick up tips on reading the water, working your lures, and fighting fish like a pro. And let's not forget the views – South Padre's coastline is something special, especially as the afternoon light starts to soften.

Top Catches This Season

Anglers have been hauling in some impressive fish lately. Redfish in the 20-30 inch range have been common, with some bulls pushing past the 40-inch mark. These copper-colored bruisers put up a heck of a fight, often making drag-screaming runs that'll test your stamina. Flounder have been showing up in good numbers too, with some doormat-sized fish in the 4-5 pound range being caught regularly. They might not fight as hard as the reds, but landing a big flounder is always a thrill. And while they're not the primary target, we've been seeing some nice speckled trout mixed in, adding variety to the catch. Remember, we practice catch-and-release for oversized fish to keep the fishery healthy for years to come.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish, or red drum as they're officially known, are the stars of the show in South Padre. These bronze beauties are known for their distinctive spot near the tail and their incredible strength. They love to hang around structure, often tailing in shallow water as they root for crabs and shrimp. Fall is prime time for reds, but they're catchable year-round. The "slot" size (legal to keep) is between 20-28 inches in Texas, and these fish make for excellent eating if you decide to keep one for dinner.

Southern flounder are the masters of camouflage in these waters. These flat fish can change their color to match the bottom, making them nearly invisible until they strike. They're ambush predators, lying in wait to pounce on passing baitfish. Flounder fishing picks up in the fall when they start their annual migration to the Gulf for spawning. The "flounder run" is a big deal around here, with anglers from all over coming to get in on the action. These fish are prized for their delicate, flaky meat – a true delicacy of the coast.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

South Padre Island isn't just a spring break hotspot – it's a year-round fishing paradise. The mix of shallow flats, deep channels, and abundant baitfish creates the perfect environment for game fish to thrive. Anglers love the variety – one minute you're sight-casting to tailing redfish, the next you're working a jig for flounder along a channel edge. The weather's usually cooperative, with mild temperatures even in winter, making it a great escape for folks from colder climates. And let's not forget the laid-back island vibe. After a day on the water, you can kick back at a beachside bar, swap fish stories, and plan your next outing. It's the kind of place that gets under your skin, in the best way possible.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to bend a rod and fill the cooler with some of South Padre's finest, now's the time to lock in your trip. Capt. Makiolke knows these waters like the back of his hand and is ready to put you on the fish. Whether you're looking to catch your personal best redfish or want to learn the finer points of flounder gigging, this half-day trip is your ticket to inshore fishing action. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to book. Grab a buddy, pack your sunscreen, and get ready for an afternoon of non-stop fishing in one of Texas' top inshore destinations. The fish are waiting – are you ready to meet them?