Half Day Galveston Fishing Trips
Private Trip
Flats/Shallows Fishing
Landbased shark fishing with experienced Captain Steve CallawayAccommodates up to 3 guests on Galveston flatsHalfday charter includes guidance for all skill levels
Get ready for some serious wade fishing action along Galveston's productive flats with Captain Steve Callaway, a local legend who knows exactly where the fish are biting. This land-based fishing charter puts you right in the heart of some of Texas' best shallow water fishing, where redfish cruise the grass beds and ladyfish put on aerial shows that'll have you hooting and hollering. With space for up to 3 anglers, you'll get the personalized attention that makes all the difference between going home with fish stories or going home with fish. Captain Steve's been working these waters for years, and his track record speaks for itself – this guy knows how to put you on fish when others are coming up empty.
This isn't your typical boat charter – we're talking pure wade fishing at its finest along Galveston's renowned flats system. You'll be working the shallows where the water's crystal clear and you can actually see your target before you cast. Captain Steve positions you in prime spots where redfish patrol the drop-offs and ladyfish school up in feeding frenzies. The beauty of land-based fishing here is you're not fighting boat noise or dealing with crowded launch ramps. Instead, you're getting that authentic Texas coastal experience where it's just you, your rod, and some of the Gulf's most aggressive fish. The flats around Galveston are famous for holding fish year-round, and Steve's got the local knowledge to read water conditions, tide movements, and seasonal patterns that separate the pros from the weekend warriors. You'll be wading in knee-deep water most of the time, working structure and grass lines where these fish love to ambush baitfish.
Captain Steve comes equipped with top-rated tackle specifically rigged for Galveston's flats fishing, but he's also happy to help you dial in your own setup if you prefer bringing your gear. We're talking medium-heavy spinning rods paired with reels that can handle the drag-screaming runs these fish are known for. The technique here is all about precision casting and reading the water – you'll learn to spot subtle color changes that indicate drop-offs, recognize grass beds that hold baitfish, and identify the nervous water that signals feeding activity. Artificial lures are the name of the game, with soft plastics, topwater plugs, and spoons being the go-to baits depending on conditions. Steve's a master at adjusting tactics throughout the trip, switching from topwater action in the early morning to bottom-bouncing presentations when the fish move deeper. The wade fishing approach means you're getting up close and personal with your target species, feeling every head shake and tail slap through your rod tip. You'll need to bring your Texas fishing license, plus it's smart to pack some chairs, an umbrella, snacks, and drinks since you'll be spending quality time on the flats.
Redfish are the crown jewel of Galveston's flats system, and for good reason – these copper-colored bulldogs will test every ounce of your tackle and technique. Reds here typically run anywhere from slot-size 20-inchers up to bull redfish that'll strip line like there's no tomorrow. They're most active during the cooler months from October through March, but Captain Steve knows the year-round spots where you can find them cruising the shallows even in summer heat. What makes redfish so special is their aggressive nature and the visual aspect of the fishing – you'll often see them tailing in inches of water or cruising just below the surface with their backs exposed. When a red takes your bait, you'll know it immediately. These fish hit hard, run fast, and fight dirty, using every oyster bar and grass bed to try and break you off. The satisfaction of landing a quality redfish in shallow water is something that keeps anglers coming back season after season.
Ladyfish might not win any beauty contests, but they're pure dynamite on the end of your line and a customer favorite for good reason. These silver rockets are abundant in Galveston's waters, especially during the warmer months from April through October when they school up in massive numbers. Ladyfish are acrobatic fighters that'll jump, twist, and cartwheel across the surface once hooked, putting on a show that rivals any tarpon. They're also excellent indicators of baitfish activity – where you find ladyfish, you'll often find bigger predators lurking nearby. These fish are perfect for beginners since they're aggressive biters and forgiving fighters, but they're also a blast for experienced anglers who appreciate their athletic ability. Captain Steve often uses ladyfish action to locate prime spots for redfish, since both species feed on the same baitfish schools. The best part about ladyfish is their willingness to hit artificials, making them ideal targets for perfecting your lure presentation and fighting technique.
If you're serious about experiencing world-class flats fishing in one of Texas' most productive areas, this half-day trip with Captain Steve delivers everything you're looking for. The combination of his local expertise, prime fishing locations, and personalized approach means you're getting maximum value for your fishing dollar. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to add some Galveston reds to your logbook or a newcomer wanting to learn proper flats fishing techniques, this charter adapts to your skill level while keeping the action hot. Remember that deposits are non-refundable, so make sure your schedule's locked in before committing. The trip accommodates up to 3 guests, making it perfect for a small group of friends or family members who want that intimate fishing experience without the crowds. Don't sleep on this opportunity – Captain Steve's calendar fills up fast, especially during peak fishing seasons when the reds are schooling and the ladyfish are jumping.
Elops SaurusLadyfish might get called "poor man's tarpon," but don't let that fool you - these silver rockets put on a real show. Running 12-20 inches typically, they're scrappy fighters that'll jump and skip across the water once hooked, which is half the fun. You'll find them year-round in our bays, along the beaches, and around piers where they school up and feed aggressively. They love brackish water and aren't picky about depth - anywhere from shallow flats to deeper channels. While they're not table fare, they make great live bait for bigger fish like tarpon or kings. Kids especially love catching them because they bite everything - shrimp, small jigs, even flies if you're into that. Pro tip: use a heavy mono leader because these guys have small but sharp teeth and love to thrash around trying to throw the hook.
Sciaenops OcellatusRedfish are the bread and butter of Galveston fishing, and for good reason. These copper-colored beauties average 20-28 inches and love our shallow bays, especially around oyster reefs and grass flats in 1-4 feet of water. You'll spot them by their distinctive black spots near the tail and that bronze back that fades to white underneath. They're year-round fighters here, but fall and spring offer the best action when they're most active. What makes reds special? They hit hard, fight dirty, and taste great on the table with that mild, sweet flavor. They'll eat just about anything - live shrimp, topwater plugs, or soft plastics. Here's my tip: look for "tailing" reds in super shallow water where their tails break the surface while they're feeding. Cast past them and work your bait back slowly.
Galveston, TX