They say everything’s bigger in Texas, and the fishing scene in the Houston and Galveston area doesn’t disappoint. Flounder gigging, jetty fishing, drift and wade fishing, and bay fishing are all some of the most fun ways to reel ‘em in near the Bayou City.

Galveston Bay is well known for Redfish, Speckled Trout, Black Drum, and Flounder. If you’re looking to go more offshore, the Gulf has plenty of Wahoo, Cobia, Red Snapper, Tuna, and Kingfish. Staying in Houston? Enjoy winding waterways and lakes where you can find Lake Trout, Flounder, and Redfish.

Anglers often stay close to shore as the fish prefer the warmer waters in this area. Your best chance of catching a Redfish, Black Drum, or Sheepshead is in early spring between March-April. Sheepshead are a fun, easy catch that can be found amongst piers, jetties, and oyster reefs. The summer season has the largest variety of species that can be found, including Sea Trout, Tarpon, Black Drum, and Spanish Mackerel. You can find fish year-round in Galveston and Houston, and winter is great for Redfish and Trout.

Flounder gigging is a Texan tradition, a combination of night fishing and hunting. Many flounder-based tournaments can be found throughout the year, such as the Fall Flounder Classic. Flounder gigging is an excellent opportunity for new and experienced anglers alike, providing a fun challenge while also staying close to the shoreline.

Top sights in the area include NASA’s Space Center Houston, the Museum of Natural Science, and the Houston Zoo. If you’re staying near Galveston, be sure to visit the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier and the beautiful Galveston Island State Park. History buff? Visit the Galveston Railroad Museum, Historic Seaport, or the Bryan Museum, a museum of old Texas. No matter what you do, you’re bound to have a blast!