Full Day Advanced Fishing in Matagorda
Private Trip
Flats/Shallows Fishing
10-hour advanced fishing trip targeting redfish and troutCaptain Kevin provides pro-level techniques and seasonal strategiesAll gear included with complimentary fish cleaning service
Captain Kevin Cantu's 10-hour pro-level fishing adventure puts you right in the heart of Matagorda's most productive inshore waters. This isn't your typical tourist charter – it's built for seasoned anglers who know the difference between a good day and a great day on the water. Starting at 5:45 AM when the water's glass and the fish are active, you'll spend the entire day working the flats, channels, and structure that make this stretch of Texas coast legendary among serious fishermen. With all tackle provided and complimentary fish cleaning at the end, you can focus on what matters most: putting fish in the box.
This top-rated charter runs from dawn to dusk, giving you maximum time to work Matagorda's diverse inshore fishery. Captain Cantu adjusts the game plan based on seasonal patterns, tides, and what the fish are telling him that day. You might start working shallow grass flats for cruising redfish at first light, then move to deeper channels when the sun gets high and the trout stack up on structure. The beauty of a 10-hour trip is the flexibility – if the bite's hot in one area, you can milk it. If conditions change, you've got time to relocate and find the action. This world-class fishery offers consistent opportunities for multiple species, and with Captain Cantu's local knowledge, you're positioned to make the most of every tide change and weather window.
Captain Cantu brings a fully rigged boat with quality gear matched to Matagorda's conditions and target species. You'll work with medium-heavy spinning setups perfect for the slot reds and keeper trout that cruise these waters. Depending on conditions, you might throw soft plastics on jig heads over grass beds, work topwater plugs along shorelines at dawn, or drift live bait near structure when the fish are finicky. The captain reads the water and adjusts techniques throughout the day – maybe starting with artificial lures during active feeding periods and switching to live shrimp or finger mullet when you need to coax bites from pressured fish. His approach focuses on understanding fish behavior and seasonal movements rather than just covering water, which is why experienced anglers keep coming back to fish with him.
Redfish are the backbone of Matagorda's inshore scene, and for good reason. These copper-colored bruisers cruise the flats year-round, with fish ranging from schoolie reds in the 18-22 inch range up to bull reds pushing 30+ inches. Spring and fall offer the most consistent action as reds feed aggressively in preparation for spawning runs. What makes them so exciting is their attitude – they'll crush topwater plugs in shallow water and put up a fight that'll test your drag system. The sight-fishing opportunities here are world-class, especially on clear days when you can spot their backs and tails in knee-deep water.
Speckled trout bring a different challenge to the table. These popular gamefish are structure-oriented and respond well to subtle presentations. The best trout fishing typically happens during cooler months when fish concentrate in deeper holes and along channel edges. Matagorda's trout run from solid keeper size around 15 inches up to trophy gator trout exceeding 25 inches. They're notorious for light bites and quick runs, making them a favorite among technical anglers who appreciate finesse fishing. The key is matching your presentation to their mood – sometimes they want fast-moving baits, other times you need to slow down and work soft plastics right on bottom.
Black drum often get overlooked, but they're incredible fighters that deserve respect. These bottom-huggers love oyster reefs and structure, where they root around for crabs and shellfish. Matagorda's drum fishing peaks in spring when large schools move into shallow bays. They range from smaller fish perfect for the dinner table up to heavyweight bulls that can exceed 40 pounds. What anglers love about drum fishing is the persistence required – you need to put baits right on their nose and wait for that distinctive thump-thump bite that signals a hooked fish.
Southern flounder round out the slam opportunities in these waters. These flatfish are ambush predators that bury themselves in sandy bottoms near current breaks and drop-offs. Fall is prime time for flounder as they stage for their offshore spawning migration, often producing fish in the 3-5 pound range. Flounder fishing requires patience and the right technique – typically slow-moving baits presented close to bottom structure. When you hook a good one, they fight with surprising power and make excellent table fare.
Captain Kevin Cantu's advanced fishing trips fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons when multiple species are active simultaneously. This customer favorite charter delivers the kind of focused, high-level fishing experience that serious anglers seek – no shortcuts, no rushing, just a full day of working productive water with an experienced guide who knows how to put you on fish. The early start time ensures you're fishing during prime morning hours, while the 10-hour duration gives you flexibility to adapt to changing conditions and maximize your time on productive water. Book your spot now and experience why Matagorda's inshore fishery has earned its reputation among the best fishing destinations on the Texas coast.
You'll be fishing aboard a fully restored 22' Majek bay boat, perfectly rigged for serious flats fishing in Matagorda's prime inshore waters. This classic bay boat runs on a dependable 200 HP Yamaha engine that'll get you to the productive spots quickly and quietly. The boat comes equipped with GPS navigation and a quality fishfinder to locate schools and structure where redfish, trout, and drum like to hang out. With a functional livewell to keep your catch fresh and plenty of deck space for casting, this Majek is built for anglers who want to focus on fishing rather than fighting their equipment. The shallow draft design lets you access those skinny water areas where the big reds cruise, while the stable platform gives you confidence when sight-casting or working lures around structure. Captain Kevin has this boat dialed in for maximum fishing efficiency during your 10-hour advanced trip.
Matagorda