Half Day Redfish And Flounder Hunt
Captain Makiolke knows where the fish are biting, and this 5-hour afternoon trip puts you right in the sweet spots around South Padre Island. You'll be targeting two of the area's most prized inshore species - hard-fighting redfish and crafty flounder - in waters that consistently produce quality catches. With room for just two anglers, you get personalized attention and prime positioning at every stop. The afternoon bite can be absolutely electric here, especially when the tide's moving and these fish are actively feeding in the shallows.
What to Expect on the Water
This top-rated inshore adventure starts in the early afternoon when the sun's warming up the flats and getting these fish moving. Captain Makiolke runs a clean, well-equipped boat that's perfect for navigating the shallow waters where redfish love to cruise and flounder lay in ambush. You'll hit multiple spots during your 5 hours, from grass flats where reds tail in inches of water to sandy drop-offs where flounder wait for an easy meal. The intimate 2-person capacity means no crowded rails or fighting for the best fishing spots - just you, your fishing partner, and some of the most productive inshore waters on the Texas coast. The captain reads these waters like a book, adjusting tactics based on tide, wind, and what the fish are telling him.
Tackle and Techniques
Captain Makiolke sets you up with quality spinning gear perfect for sight fishing and bottom bouncing - the two main approaches you'll use out there. For redfish, you'll work topwater plugs and soft plastics around grass beds and oyster reefs, often sight-casting to fish you can actually see cruising the flats. The flounder game is all about patience and feel - you'll drift live bait or bounce jigs along the bottom, waiting for that telltale thump when a flatfish inhales your offering. All rods, reels, and terminal tackle are provided, along with a good selection of proven lures that produce in these waters. The captain brings live bait when conditions call for it, and he's always ready to switch up techniques if the fish want something different. You'll learn to read the water, spot nervous baitfish, and feel the difference between a bite and bottom contact.
Target Species
Redfish are the stars of South Padre's inshore scene, and for good reason. These copper-colored bruisers average 20-28 inches in these waters, with plenty of slot fish that fight like they're twice their size. Spring through fall offers the most consistent action, but even winter can produce when conditions align. What makes reds so special is their willingness to feed in super shallow water - you'll often spot their bronze backs and distinctive black spots as they cruise the flats looking for crabs and shrimp. When a red hits your lure, that initial run will test your drag and get your heart pumping. They're smart fish that spook easily, making each successful hookup feel earned.
Southern flounder are the masters of disguise in these waters, lying perfectly camouflaged on sandy bottoms waiting to ambush passing prey. They're most active during moving tides, particularly in spring and fall when they're feeding heavily before and after their spawning runs. A quality flounder here runs 16-20 inches, though the occasional doormat over 24 inches keeps things interesting. What anglers love about flounder fishing is the technique involved - you need to feel every bump and tick transmitted through your line, distinguishing between structure, crabs, and that subtle pickup when a flatfish engulfs your bait. Once hooked, they make determined runs toward bottom structure, using their broad profile to create impressive drag pressure.
Time to Book Your Spot
This customer favorite afternoon trip fills up fast, especially during peak season when the fishing is at its best. Captain Makiolke's reputation for putting clients on fish and his intimate knowledge of South Padre's inshore waters make this a world-class fishing experience that delivers consistent results. Whether you're looking to target your first redfish or add a trophy flounder to your catch list, this 5-hour adventure gives you the best shot at both species in one trip. The small group size ensures you get the most out of your time on the water, with hands-on instruction and prime fishing opportunities from start to finish. Don't wait - book your spot and get ready to experience some of the best inshore fishing Texas has to offer.