Expert Inshore Fishing | South Padre Island

Reel in the Big Ones: South Padre Afternoon Fishing

Get ready to wet a line and test your skills against some of South Padre Island's most sought-after fish. This 5-hour afternoon trip is your ticket to targeting redfish, speckled trout, and black drum in the rich waters off the Texas coast. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, Sunrise Charters has got you covered with everything you need for a productive day on the water. So grab your hat and sunscreen – it's time to see what's biting in South Padre!

What to Expect on the Water

As soon as you step aboard our well-equipped boat, you'll feel the excitement building. We'll cruise out from South Padre Island, taking in the coastal scenery as we head to our first fishing spot. The afternoon light dancing on the water creates perfect conditions for sight-fishing in the shallows or working deeper channels, depending on where the fish are biting. Our experienced captain knows these waters like the back of their hand, so you'll be in prime position to hook into some quality fish. We provide all the gear you'll need – rods, reels, bait, and tackle – so all you have to focus on is landing that trophy catch. And don't worry if you're new to fishing; we're here to show you the ropes and help you improve your technique throughout the trip.

Top Catches This Season

South Padre Island is known for its consistent inshore fishing, and this half-day trip puts you right in the action. We'll be targeting three of the area's most popular gamefish: redfish, speckled trout, and black drum. Depending on the conditions and time of year, we might use a variety of techniques to entice these fish. You could find yourself sight-casting to tailing redfish in skinny water, working soft plastics for trout along grass lines, or dropping live bait near structure for hefty black drum. The thrill of feeling that first tug on your line never gets old, and the fights these fish put up will have you grinning from ear to ear. Our local knowledge means we can adapt on the fly, switching tactics or locations to make sure you're on the fish and having a blast.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing the waters around South Padre Island that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the variety – one minute you're sight-fishing for reds, the next you're battling a big trout. Or perhaps it's the stunning backdrop, with pelicans soaring overhead and the island's skyline in the distance. For many, it's the chance to unplug and spend quality time on the water with family and friends. Whatever draws you in, this afternoon trip is the perfect way to experience the best of South Padre fishing without taking up your whole day. And let's be honest – there's nothing quite like the bragging rights that come with landing a monster redfish or a limit of tasty speckled trout.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish: These copper-colored beauties are a favorite among South Padre anglers for good reason. Known for their powerful runs and stubborn fights, redfish (also called red drum) can be found year-round in our waters. They love to cruise the shallows, often revealing their location with their distinctive tailing behavior. Sight-casting to a tailing red is one of the most exciting experiences in inshore fishing. These fish can range from small "rat reds" to bull reds over 40 inches, so be ready for anything when that line goes tight!

Speckled Trout: Also known as spotted seatrout, these fish are prized for both their sporty fight and their excellent table fare. Speckled trout are ambush predators, often found hanging around structure or along grass lines waiting to pounce on baitfish. They have soft mouths, so finesse is key when fighting them. The satisfaction of a well-placed cast resulting in that telltale "thump" of a trout strike is hard to beat. While most trout caught are in the 15-20 inch range, South Padre is known for producing some true gator trout pushing 30 inches.

Black Drum: Often overshadowed by their redfish cousins, black drum are a blast to catch and can grow to impressive sizes. These bottom-feeders use their chin barbels to root out crabs and other crustaceans, making them suckers for a well-presented crab or shrimp bait. Smaller "puppy drum" put up a great fight on light tackle, while the larger specimens can test both your gear and your stamina. Black drum over 30 pounds are not uncommon, and they can grow to over 90 pounds in our waters. Landing one of these big boys is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're looking for a top-notch fishing experience that fits into your afternoon schedule, this South Padre Island trip is hard to beat. With a max of 2 guests, you'll get plenty of personal attention from our expert guide to help you land those fish of a lifetime. Whether you're a serious angler looking to add some new species to your list or a family wanting to create lasting memories, Sunrise Charters has you covered. The fish are biting, the boat is ready, and the afternoon sun is calling your name. Don't miss out on your chance to experience some of the best inshore fishing Texas has to offer. Book your spot now and get ready to make some waves (and maybe set some personal bests) on beautiful South Padre Island!