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Expert Galveston Inshore Fishing | Daniel Hayes
- Published Date: July 16, 2025
- Fishing
- Galveston
- $210 price range
Summary
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Galveston's Finest Catches
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Reeling in big catches in Galveston!
Fishing paradise found in Galveston.
Galveston waters, endless fishing fun.
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Reeling in big catches in Galveston!
Fishing paradise found in Galveston.
Galveston waters, endless fishing fun.
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Reeling in big catches in Galveston!
Fishing paradise found in Galveston.
Galveston waters, endless fishing fun.
Reel in the Big Ones: Galveston Inshore Fishing
Hey there, anglers! Guide Daniel here, ready to take you on a fish-filled adventure in the rich waters of Galveston. If you're itching to feel the tug of a monster redfish or the fight of a feisty flounder, you've come to the right place. Our 8-hour inshore trips are designed to put you right where the action is, with plenty of time to work different spots and techniques. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, I've got the know-how and the hot spots to make your day on the water one for the books.
What to Expect on the Water
We'll kick things off bright and early, meeting up at 5:30 AM to catch that prime morning bite. Don't worry if you're not a morning person – the excitement of what's to come will wake you right up. We'll spend 6 to 8 solid hours on the water, wrapping up between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM, depending on how the fish are biting. With just you and one other angler on board, you'll get plenty of one-on-one coaching and enough elbow room to cast without tangling lines. I'll provide all the gear you need, from rods and reels to bait and tackle, so you can focus on the important stuff – like deciding which lure to try next or how to play that big red you just hooked.
Techniques That Land Lunkers
In Galveston's inshore waters, we mix it up to keep the fish guessing and the rods bending. We might start the day drifting over grass flats, tossing soft plastics for trout. When the tide's right, we'll hit the oyster reefs, where redfish and black drum love to hang out. If the flounder are running, we'll work the channel edges with live bait or jigs. I'm always watching the water and adjusting our approach – maybe we'll sight-cast to tailing reds in the shallows or jig around structure for sheepshead. Whatever the fish are in the mood for, we'll figure it out together and put some beauties in the boat.
Top Catches This Season
Galveston's inshore fishing is on fire right now, folks. We've been putting clients on some real wall-hangers lately. Last week, Jim from Houston tangled with a 30-inch redfish that put up a fight worthy of a fishing story. Sarah and her dad visiting from Dallas doubled up on some chunky speckled trout, with Sarah's going 24 inches – a personal best! And let's not forget about Mike, who managed to land the inshore slam: a redfish, trout, and flounder all in one trip. The bite's hot, and now's the time to get in on the action.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are the rock stars of inshore fishing. They'll test your drag and your biceps, often tipping the scales at 20-30 pounds. Reds love to cruise the shallows, and there's nothing quite like seeing that big tail waving in the air as they root for crabs. Fall is prime time for bull reds, but we catch 'em year-round in Galveston.
Southern Flounder: Flatties are the ninjas of the inshore world. Masters of camouflage, they'll lie in wait on sandy bottoms, ready to ambush unsuspecting prey. Fall brings on the flounder run, when these tasty fish make their way to the Gulf. A 5-pounder is a great catch, and they're some of the best eating fish out there.
Speckled Trout: Also known as spotted seatrout, these are the bread and butter of Galveston inshore fishing. They're aggressive feeders and will hit topwater lures with explosive strikes that'll get your heart racing. Spring and fall are peak seasons, but we catch specks all year. A 20-incher is considered a solid trout, and they're delicious on the grill.
Black Drum: These cousins of the redfish might not win any beauty contests, but they sure can pull. They love hanging around structure and will put up a stubborn fight. We catch them year-round, with the bigger ones showing up in late winter and early spring. A 30-pounder isn't uncommon, and they'll give you a workout you won't forget.
Sheepshead: Don't let those human-like teeth fool you – sheepshead are crafty and can be challenging to hook. They're structure-oriented fish, often found around pilings and reefs. Winter and early spring are prime times to target these striped battlers. They're not the biggest fish in the bay, but a 5-pounder will give you a run for your money and make for some fine table fare.
Time to Book Your Spot
Alright, folks, let's get down to brass tacks. If you're ready to experience some of the best inshore fishing Galveston has to offer, it's time to lock in your date. Remember, we're talking about a personalized trip with just you and one other angler, so spots fill up fast – especially during peak seasons. Whether you're looking to bend a rod on some bull reds, outsmart a crafty flounder, or just enjoy a day on the water with the chance at a mixed bag, I've got you covered. Don't let another fishing season slip by without getting in on this action. Grab your spot now, and let's make some fishing memories that'll have you coming back for more. Trust me, once you feel that first big hit, you'll be hooked – pun absolutely intended!
Learn more about the species
Black Drum
Black Drum are the heavy hitters of the drum family, often weighing 5 to 30 pounds, with some monsters topping 90 pounds. You'll find them hanging around oyster beds, mudflats, and pier pilings in brackish waters. Spring is prime time when they school up to spawn. These fish are known for their powerful jaws, perfect for crushing shellfish. Anglers love the challenge of reeling in a big drum, and the smaller ones make great table fare. One local tip: listen for their distinctive croaking sound – it can give away their location. When fishing for Black Drum, use fresh crab or shrimp on a simple bottom rig. Let it sit on the bottom and be patient. When you feel a tap, give it a moment before setting the hook. These fish can put up a great fight, so make sure your drag is set right and enjoy the battle.
Redfish
Redfish, also called Red Drum, are a prized catch in Galveston waters. They typically range from 28 to 33 inches when mature, but can grow much larger. You'll find them in shallow waters, often as shallow as 1 to 4 feet, around oyster reefs, coves, and seagrass. These fish are known for their coppery-red color and distinctive black spot near the tail. Anglers love targeting them for their strong fights and excellent taste. Fall is prime time for bull reds. Here's a local tip: look for "tailing" redfish in shallow flats during high tide. They'll often have their tails sticking out of the water as they root for food. Use light tackle and quiet approaches in these situations. When fishing deeper water, try using live or cut bait on the bottom. Redfish will often hit hard and run, so be ready for an exciting battle.
Sea Trout
Sea Trout, also known as Speckled Trout, are a favorite among Galveston anglers. They typically range from 14 to 24 inches, with some monsters hitting 5 pounds or more. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. Winter brings larger schools to deeper waters. Anglers love targeting them for their delicate flavor and the exciting topwater action they provide. These fish are known for their silver color and distinctive spots. A local tip: try using artificial lures like jerk baits or topwater plugs early in the morning or late evening. When you're working a lure, vary your retrieve speed – sea trout often hit on the pause. During cooler months, slow down your presentation and fish deeper. Remember, these fish have soft mouths, so set the hook gently to avoid tearing it.
Sheepshead
Sheepshead, nicknamed "convict fish" for their black and white stripes, are a unique catch in Galveston's waters. They typically range from 1-8 pounds but can reach up to 20 pounds. You'll find them around structures like docks, bridges, and oyster reefs. Spring is prime time for sheepshead fishing. Anglers love targeting them for their tasty white meat and the challenge they present. These fish are notorious bait stealers with their human-like teeth. Here's a local tip: use a small, sharp hook with fiddler crabs or barnacles as bait. When you feel a nibble, wait a second before setting the hook – sheepshead are masters at stealing bait. Position your boat close to structure without anchoring to avoid spooking them. It's a game of patience and precision, but landing a big sheepshead is always rewarding.
Southern Flounder
Southern Flounder are masters of camouflage, blending seamlessly with sandy or muddy bottoms. They typically range from 15 to 18 inches, but can grow up to 33 inches. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. Fall is prime time for flounder fishing as they move to deeper waters. Anglers love targeting them for their delicate, mild-flavored meat and the challenge they present. These ambush predators lie in wait, so fishing slowly along the bottom is key. A local trick: use a Carolina rig with live bait like mullet or shrimp, dragging it slowly across the bottom. When you feel a tap, resist the urge to set the hook immediately. Give the flounder a few seconds to fully take the bait, then reel down and set hard. It's a game of patience, but the reward is worth it.
