Calaveras Lake Family Fishing Adventure
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Private 4hour family fishing trip for up to 4 guestsSpring targets freshwater Redfish, winter focuses on catfish actionAll gear provided plus filleting service for legal catches
Looking for a fishing trip that'll get the whole family excited about being on the water? This 4-hour guided adventure on Calaveras Lake is designed specifically with parents and kids in mind. Captain SAction knows exactly how to keep everyone engaged, whether you're dealing with a first-timer who's never held a rod or an experienced angler looking to introduce their children to the sport. The lake's warm waters and steady fish populations make it one of the most reliable spots around San Antonio for family-friendly fishing that actually produces results.
Your private group of up to 4 people gets the boat all to yourselves, which means no strangers and no pressure to keep up with anyone else's pace. We offer two departure times - 7:30am for those early birds who want to beat the heat, or 1:30pm if your crew needs more time to get moving in the morning. The beauty of Calaveras Lake is its consistency throughout the year, though what you're targeting changes with the seasons. Spring brings some of the best freshwater redfish action you'll find anywhere in Texas, while the cooler months shift our focus to catfish that'll bend your rod and give the kids something to really get excited about. All your gear is covered - rods, reels, bait, tackle, the works. Parents love this because there's no guessing what to bring or worrying about forgetting something important at home.
We keep things simple but effective out here. Depending on what's biting and the skill level of your crew, we'll use a mix of bottom fishing and light tackle casting. For the catfish, we're talking about tried-and-true bottom rigs with fresh bait that these fish can't resist. When we're chasing redfish, we switch to lighter setups that let everyone feel every bit of the fight. The boat stays positioned over productive structure and drop-offs where fish naturally congregate. Kids especially love the immediate feedback when a catfish picks up their bait - that steady pull that builds into a serious bend in the rod. We'll adjust our techniques based on who's fishing and what's working that day, always keeping it fun and educational without getting too complicated for the younger anglers.
Redfish are the crown jewel of Calaveras Lake, especially during their prime season in spring. These copper-colored fighters typically run 18 to 28 inches here, with some real bruisers pushing into the 30-inch range. What makes them special isn't just their size - it's their attitude. Redfish fight dirty, using their broad sides to leverage against your drag and making runs that'll test everyone's patience. They're most active in the shallower areas during warmer months, often cruising structure and drop-offs where they ambush smaller baitfish. Kids love them because they can actually feel the fight, and parents appreciate that they're big enough to make for impressive photos and excellent table fare.
Hardhead sea catfish might not win any beauty contests, but they're absolute dynamite when it comes to consistent action and keeping everyone busy. These fish are year-round residents that really shine during the cooler months when redfish activity slows down. They average 2 to 5 pounds, which is perfect for younger anglers who want to feel like they're fighting something substantial without getting overwhelmed. Catfish bite aggressively and aren't picky about bait, which means less waiting around and more fish in the boat. They're also some of the best eating you'll find in freshwater, with firm white meat that even kids who claim they don't like fish usually end up enjoying.
This trip delivers exactly what busy families need - quality time together without the hassle of figuring out gear, locations, or techniques on your own. Your catch gets filleted and bagged at the end of the day, so you're walking away with fresh dinner and stories that'll last way longer than the fish will. The flexible departure times work with real family schedules, and the private boat setup means your group can relax and fish at your own pace. Calaveras Lake's reputation as a top-rated family fishing destination isn't accidental - it's because trips like this consistently put fish in the boat while creating the kind of memories that get kids hooked on fishing for life. Spots fill up quickly, especially during peak redfish season, so don't wait too long to secure your date.
Our 2021 Mako 17-foot skiff is built for families who want to fish Calaveras Lake's productive waters. Powered by a reliable Mercury 60HP engine, this agile boat cuts through the lake at speeds up to 30 knots and handles shallow areas where big fish like to hide. The GPS keeps you on the best fishing spots while the fish finder shows what's swimming below. When visibility drops, the radar keeps you safe on the water. An onboard icebox keeps your drinks cold and your catch fresh throughout the 4-hour trip. With room for up to 3 guests plus your captain, this skiff gives everyone space to cast lines comfortably. Whether you're targeting spring Redfish or winter catfish, this boat gets you to where the fish are biting and brings your family back with dinner in the cooler.
Ariopsis FelisWhile traditionally a saltwater species, hardhead catfish provide steady action during cooler months on Calaveras Lake. These whiskered fighters typically range 8-15 inches and weigh 1-3 pounds, though bigger ones show up regularly. They're bottom feeders that cruise muddy areas and structure, using their barbels to hunt shrimp, crabs, and small fish. Kids love catching them because they bite aggressively and put up a decent scrap. The meat is mild when prepared fresh, though some find it a bit strong. They're most active in fall and winter when water temps drop. Handle with care - those dorsal and pectoral spines are sharp and can puncture skin easily. Best bait is fresh shrimp on the bottom with a sliding sinker rig. They're notorious bait stealers, so keep your drag loose and be ready to set the hook.
Sciaenops OcellatusSpring brings some of the best redfish action on Calaveras Lake. These copper-colored fighters typically run 20-30 inches and are known for their distinctive black spots near the tail. They love cruising shallow flats and structure in 2-4 feet of water, especially around vegetation and drop-offs. What makes them special is their aggressive strike and solid fight - they'll make several strong runs before giving up. The meat is excellent eating with a mild, sweet flavor that's perfect for the grill. During warmer months, look for them tailing in the shallows early morning or late evening. My go-to tip: when you spot one, cast well ahead of where it's heading and work your bait slowly back. They spook easily but once hooked, you're in for a real battle.
Elmendorf