Charter Fishing Galveston | 4 Hour Trip
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Four-hour inshore fishing trip targeting redfish, flounder, and troutCaptain Michael Bullock provides expert guidance and all equipmentSmall group experience accommodating up to three guests maximum
Captain Michael Bullock knows Galveston Bay like the back of his hand, and he's ready to put you on fish during this top-rated 4-hour afternoon charter. Based out of Texas City, this inshore fishing trip targets the bay's most popular gamefish—redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. Whether you've been fishing these waters for years or you're picking up a rod for the first time, Captain Michael will adjust his approach to make sure everyone on board has a shot at landing dinner. The bay's shallow flats and grass beds hold plenty of fish year-round, and with only 3 anglers max per trip, you'll get the personalized attention that makes the difference between a good day and a great day on the water.
This isn't your typical crowded party boat experience. With Captain Michael, you're getting a genuine inshore fishing adventure where the focus stays on putting quality fish in the cooler. The 4-hour afternoon window hits prime feeding times when the bay's predators are actively hunting baitfish along the grass lines and oyster reefs. You'll start by checking water conditions and bait activity, then move to productive spots based on tides, wind, and recent fish movement. The captain provides all tackle and bait, so you can focus on fishing instead of rigging lines. Just bring your Texas fishing license, some snacks, and drinks for the trip. Fair warning though—deposits are non-refundable, so make sure you're committed to your fishing date.
Captain Michael runs proven inshore techniques that consistently produce fish in Galveston Bay's varied habitat. You'll primarily fish with live bait and artificial lures, depending on conditions and fish preferences that day. Live shrimp under popping corks works magic for speckled trout over grass beds, while cut mullet on the bottom targets hungry redfish and flounder around structure. The captain also keeps soft plastics rigged and ready—paddle tails and shrimp imitations that work when fish get finicky about live bait. All rods and reels are provided and properly spooled with the right line weight for bay fishing. The boat stays positioned using a trolling motor to keep noise down and maintain precise positioning over productive water. This quiet approach is crucial in the bay's shallow areas where spooked fish mean empty coolers.
Sea trout, locally called speckled trout or just "specks," are the bread and butter of Galveston Bay fishing. These spotted beauties average 14-18 inches but can push over 25 inches during peak seasons. Spring and fall offer the best action when specks school up over grass beds in 3-6 feet of water. They're aggressive feeders that hit live shrimp, soft plastics, and topwater plugs with authority. What makes them special is their fighting spirit—specks jump and make strong runs that test your drag system. Plus, they're outstanding table fare with firm, flaky white meat that's perfect for fish tacos or a traditional fish fry.
Redfish are the bay's signature species and the fish that keeps anglers coming back for more. These copper-colored bruisers range from slot-sized fish around 20-26 inches up to oversized bulls that can exceed 35 inches. Reds feed year-round in the bay, but late summer and early fall see the biggest numbers as they stage for their offshore spawning runs. They're notorious for their bulldog fighting style—no fancy jumps, just pure power that will test your arms and your tackle. Redfish aren't picky eaters either, crushing everything from live crabs to cut bait to flashy spoons. The reward for landing a good red is some of the finest eating fish in the Gulf, with sweet, firm meat that blackens perfectly.
Southern flounder might be the bay's most underrated gamefish, but local anglers know better. These flatfish are ambush predators that bury themselves in sand and mud, waiting to crush unsuspecting prey. Most bay flounder run 16-20 inches, but doormat-sized fish over 24 inches show up regularly during their fall migration to the Gulf. The key to flounder fishing is patience and feel—they often pick up baits softly before making their move. Live mud minnows and finger mullet are deadly, but bouncing jigs with soft plastic trailers along the bottom produces consistent results too. Flounder are hands-down one of the best eating fish in the bay, with delicate, sweet meat that's perfect for almost any preparation.
Captain Michael's 4-hour Galveston Bay charter delivers exactly what serious anglers want—quality fishing with a knowledgeable guide who knows how to find fish. The small group size means more fishing time and individual attention, while the afternoon timing takes advantage of prime feeding periods. With all equipment provided and years of local knowledge backing every trip, you're set up for success from the moment you step aboard. The bay's year-round fishery means there's never a bad time to get out there, but prime seasons for each species make certain months even more productive. Don't wait too long to secure your date—the best fishing guides book up quickly, especially during peak seasons when the fish are most active.
Get ready to fish Galveston Bay aboard Captain Michael's 2000 Kenner 21'7 V hull, powered by a reliable 2019 150hp Mercury outboard. This proven inshore fishing machine cuts through the bay's shallow waters with ease, getting you to the best redfish and speckled trout spots quickly. The spacious deck gives you and two other anglers plenty of room to cast, fight fish, and land your catch without getting tangled up. Equipped with VHF radio for safe marine communication, this boat keeps you connected while targeting those prized flounder hiding in the grass flats. The stable V-hull design handles bay chop smoothly, so you can focus on your line instead of holding on. Perfect for working the shorelines and back lakes where the big reds cruise.
Sciaenops OcellatusRedfish are the crown jewel of our inshore fishing here in Texas waters. These copper-colored bruisers average 20-30 inches but can push 40+ pounds when you hook into a bull red. Look for that signature black spot near the tail - it's their trademark. Reds love shallow water, often cruising flats so skinny their backs show above the surface. They hang around oyster reefs, grass beds, and muddy bottoms where they root for crabs and shrimp. Fall brings the best action as they feed heavily before winter. What guests love most is the explosive strike and bulldogging fight these fish deliver. Plus, slot-sized reds make outstanding table fare. My go-to tip: watch for nervous water and tailing fish on calm mornings. When you spot them, cast well ahead and let your bait settle naturally.
Salmo TruttaSpeckled trout are one of our most consistent targets here in Galveston Bay. These silvery fish with distinctive black spots typically run 14-24 inches and put up a solid fight on light tackle. You'll find them around grass flats and shallow structure, especially during cooler months when they school up in deeper channels. Spring and fall are prime time, but we catch them year-round. What makes specks special is their excellent table fare - white, flaky meat that's perfect for the dinner table. They're smart fish that respond well to live shrimp and soft plastics. Pro tip: work your bait slow along the bottom during winter months. When it's cold, they get sluggish and won't chase fast-moving lures. A slow drift with a popping cork and live shrimp under the grass beds is money.
Paralichthys LethostigmaFlounder fishing is like underwater hunting - these flat, camouflaged ambush predators bury themselves in sand and mud waiting for prey to swim by. Most run 15-18 inches, but doormat-sized fish over 5 pounds are always possible. You'll find them on sandy and muddy bottoms throughout the bay system, especially near channel edges and drop-offs. Fall is prime time when they're feeding up before their offshore spawn. What makes flounder special is the challenge - they're subtle biters that require patience and finesse. Plus, they're hands-down one of the best eating fish in the bay with sweet, white meat perfect for frying. The key is fishing slow and staying in contact with bottom. Use a Carolina rig with live finger mullet or bull minnows, and when you feel that subtle tap-tap, give them a second before setting the hook.
Galveston Bay