Deep Sea Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Target Mahi Mahi, Kingfish, and Cobia in deep Gulf watersCaptain provides all equipment and fuel for offshore adventureAccommodates up to 6 guests with various fishing techniques
Get ready to experience some of the Gulf's best offshore fishing action with Reel Hard Charters. We're talking about heading out to the deep blue where the big boys live – those productive waters 20+ miles offshore where Mahi Mahi crash baits, Cobia cruise the surface, and Kingfish make blistering runs that'll test your drag system. This isn't your typical nearshore trip; we're going where the bottom drops off and the real Gulf fishing begins. Our experienced captain knows these waters like the back of his hand and will put you on fish using proven techniques that consistently produce results. Just bring your fishing license and we'll handle everything else – all the tackle, fuel, and local knowledge you need for a successful day on the water.
This offshore adventure accommodates up to 6 anglers, making it perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo fishermen looking to share the experience with other passionate anglers. We'll be running out to depths between 100-300 feet where the Gulf's most sought-after species hang out around structure, weed lines, and temperature breaks. The trip typically involves a 45-60 minute run to reach the prime fishing grounds, but that boat ride is part of the experience – watching the coastline fade away as we head into the endless blue Gulf waters. Once we reach our spots, expect to stay busy with multiple rod setups and various techniques depending on what we're marking on the fish finder. The captain provides all necessary equipment, from heavy spinning gear for the Cobia to lighter tackle for those acrobatic Mahi Mahi. No meals are included, so pack your own lunch and plenty of water – trust me, you'll work up an appetite fighting these Gulf gamefish.
We run a variety of fishing methods to maximize your chances of success in these productive Gulf waters. Trolling is our bread and butter technique – we'll pull a spread of lures at different depths and distances to cover water and locate active fish. Expect to see ballyhoo rigs, diving plugs, and colorful skirted baits in the water as we search for those telltale signs of feeding fish. When we find floating sargassum weed or debris, we'll switch to sight casting and live bait fishing – this is where things get really exciting as you can actually see the fish before you cast to them. The captain carries both conventional and spinning tackle in various weights, from 20-pound class gear for Mahi up to heavier 50-pound setups when the big Cobia show up. Circle hooks are standard for most presentations, and we always practice catch and release for anything over the slot limits. If conditions are right, we might even break out the fly rods for some truly spectacular top-water action when the Mahi are really fired up and feeding aggressively on the surface.
The Gulf of Mexico offers world-class fishing for several premier gamefish species, each with their own unique characteristics and fighting styles. Mahi Mahi, also called Common Dolphinfish, are the crown jewel of Gulf offshore fishing. These stunning fish with their brilliant gold, green, and blue colors typically range from 10-30 pounds, though bulls can push 40+ pounds. Peak season runs from May through September when they follow the warming waters and abundant baitfish. What makes Mahi so special is their aggressive surface feeding behavior and spectacular aerial displays when hooked – they'll jump, tailwalk, and put on a show that'll have everyone on the boat cheering. Look for them around floating debris, weed lines, or anywhere you see diving birds working bait.
Cobia are another top-rated target that gets anglers fired up. These brown sharks look-alikes cruise near the surface and can reach impressive sizes – 30 to 60-pound fish are common, with monsters over 80 pounds caught regularly in Gulf waters. Spring and early summer offer the best Cobia action as they migrate along the coast. What's amazing about Cobia fishing is the sight-casting opportunities; you'll actually see these fish swimming near the surface, often following rays or sharks. The captain will position the boat for a perfect cast, and when a big Cobia inhales your bait, get ready for a powerful, bulldogging fight that'll test your tackle and technique.
Red Snapper fishing in the Gulf represents some of the best bottom fishing available anywhere. These hard-fighting fish typically run 5-15 pounds, though trophy fish over 20 pounds are caught regularly around productive structure. Red Snapper are incredibly strong for their size and will head straight for the bottom when hooked, testing your drag and determination. The key to consistent Snapper success is finding the right structure – artificial reefs, oil rigs, and natural hard bottom areas all hold good populations. Northern Kingfish round out the target species list and provide fast action on lighter tackle. These smaller members of the King Mackerel family are perfect for novice anglers and kids, offering consistent action and good eating when the bite is on.
This deep sea fishing adventure with Reel Hard Charters delivers exactly what serious anglers are looking for – access to prime Gulf waters, experienced guidance, and shots at multiple trophy species all in one trip. The combination of proven fishing techniques, quality tackle, and the captain's local knowledge creates the perfect recipe for fishing success. Whether you're a seasoned offshore angler or trying deep sea fishing for the first time, this trip offers something special for everyone on board. Remember to secure your fishing license before the trip, and don't forget to bring a cooler with ice if you plan to keep your catch. The Gulf of Mexico's reputation as a world-class fishing destination is well-deserved, and this offshore experience puts you right in the heart of the action where the big fish live and feed.
Our versatile center console boat is perfectly rigged for serious offshore fishing in the Gulf waters. Built to handle up to 6 anglers comfortably, she's equipped with everything you need to track down those trophy Mahi, Kingfish, and Cobia in deeper waters. The fish finder will help us locate schools while GPS keeps us on course to the hottest spots. When visibility drops or weather moves in, our radar system ensures safe navigation back to port. Stay connected with other boats and marina via VHF radio, plus there's an onboard head for convenience during those long fishing days. The spacious ice box keeps your catch fresh until we head back to the dock. Captain provides all tackle, bait, and fuel - just bring your license and get ready to battle some serious Gulf gamefish using proven offshore techniques.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are fascinating fish - they look like sharks swimming near the surface but they're actually excellent table fare. These brown, torpedo-shaped fish average 20-40 pounds but can hit 50+. You'll find them around structure like wrecks, buoys, and oil rigs in 30-100 feet, especially during their spring migration from April through June. They're usually alone, not schooled up, which makes each one special. What guests love is the strong fight and that incredible firm, white meat - tastes like a cross between grouper and shark. The trick is sight fishing for them - they cruise just under the surface, so keep your eyes peeled and have a bucktail jig ready to drop right in front of them.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi are some of the most beautiful fish you'll see out there - brilliant gold sides with electric blue and green backs that put on a real color show when they come to the boat. Most run 15-30 pounds, but we see bigger ones. They love floating debris and weed lines in 100+ feet of water. Spring through fall is prime time when they're feeding heavy. What makes them special is that explosive fight - they'll jump, run, and never quit. Plus, the meat is outstanding - firm, mild, and perfect on the grill. Here's a tip: when you hook one, keep your line tight and get ready for the show, but also watch for others nearby since they often travel in small groups.
Menticirrhus SaxatilisNorthern kingfish might be smaller fish - usually 10-14 inches and under 2 pounds - but they pack a serious punch for their size. These bronze and silver striped bottom feeders hang around sandy and rocky bottoms in shallow waters, using that little barbel under their chin to hunt crabs, worms, and small baitfish. Late summer is when they're thickest near shore. Don't let the size fool you - they fight hard and the white meat is delicious. What guests enjoy is the steady action and the challenge of feeling those subtle bites. Light tackle is key here, and my tip is to use small pieces of fresh clam or bloodworm on a small hook - they're picky eaters, so keep your bait fresh and your drag light.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed snapper are the gold standard of Gulf fishing - beautiful red fish that live around hard bottom, wrecks, and oil rigs in 80-200 feet. Most run 2-8 pounds, but 15+ pounders are out there. They're bottom dwellers with serious attitude, and when you hook one, they'll head straight for cover trying to cut you off. The season typically runs summer months when regulations allow. What makes them special is that sweet, mild white meat that's perfect for any recipe. These fish are smart and structure-oriented. My advice: use fresh cigar minnows or squid, drop it right to the bottom, and when you feel that thump, set the hook hard and start cranking immediately before they get back to their hidey-hole.
Surfside Beach, TX