Galveston Fishing Charters
Galveston fishing charters offer access to inshore bays, jetties, and deep Gulf waters with redfish, speckled trout, sharks, and snapper always in play.
Top Rated Charters in Galveston
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Galveston, TX Fishing Guide
Galveston is one of the busiest and most productive fishing hubs on the Texas coast, with a charter scene that ranges from shallow bay skiffs to heavy-duty offshore boats. Inshore fishing is the bread and butter here, with half-day trips targeting redfish, speckled trout, and flounder around the bay system, jetties, and marsh drains. Full-day options open up more water, including long drifts across West Bay and deeper runs out to the beachfront or the nearshore reefs.
The Galveston Bay complex includes West Bay, East Bay, and Trinity Bay, all interconnected by channels and marsh. Common launch sites include the Galveston Yacht Basin, West End marinas, and ramps along the Seawall and Offats Bayou. Deep sea charters usually depart from Galveston Harbor and head 20 to 50+ miles offshore, depending on the target species and conditions. The nearshore rigs and bottom structure hold kings, cobia, and snapper during the warmer months, while deeper runs reach tuna and mahi along the shelf edge and floaters.
Seasonality plays a major role here. Speckled trout action heats up in spring and peaks by early summer, while flounder stack up in fall around the passes and jetties. Bull reds run strong in late summer and fall, especially at the North and South Jetties. Live shrimp under popping corks, soft plastics on jigheads, and Carolina rigs with finger mullet or crab are all common inshore techniques. Offshore, trolling, jigging, and bottom fishing with cut bait or squid are standard.
Whether you’re chasing slot reds in the bay or pulling amberjack off a rig, Galveston fishing offers range, reliability, and year-round opportunity.
Fishing Seasons in Galveston
Spring
Spring kicks off with warming bays and active tides. Speckled trout begin feeding heavily along shell reefs and drop-offs, with live shrimp or soft plastics producing well in East and West Bays. Redfish start showing up in larger numbers along shorelines and marsh drains. Flounder are more scattered but still catchable in protected areas. Offshore, the nearshore rigs start to see kingfish and occasional cobia. Many Galveston fishing charters in spring stick to inshore waters, but full-day runs can also yield snapper (where open) and early pelagic activity on good weather days.
Summer
Summer is prime time in Galveston, with the most consistent weather and wide-open species variety. Speckled trout hit their peak bite, often schooling over deep reefs or along the ship channel. Bull reds become more active at the jetties, especially on outgoing tides. Tarpon start cruising the beachfront, and sharks are abundant both inshore and offshore. Deep sea trips shift into full gear, running out to federal waters for red snapper, mahi, king mackerel, and more. This is the time for both quick half-day jetty trips and full-day offshore adventures, depending on your targets.
Fall
Fall is a transitional but highly productive season. Cooler temperatures push bait into the bays and toward the passes, triggering a strong flounder migration. Flounder gigging and rod-and-reel fishing are both popular as they stack up at the jetties and channels. Redfish action hits a new high, with bulls schooling up in the surf and along the beachfront. Speckled trout remain solid, especially around deep shell and marsh drain points. Offshore, weather windows get tighter, but when it’s calm, the fishing can be excellent for snapper, amberjack, and kingfish.
Winter
Winter brings tougher conditions, but experienced anglers still find success. Trout concentrate in deeper holes and channels, with slow presentations using soft plastics or live mullet producing strikes. Redfish stay active around marsh edges and back lakes, especially on sunny days. The flounder bite slows post-migration, but a few stragglers remain. Offshore fishing is hit-or-miss depending on fronts, but there are opportunities for black drum, sheepshead, and reef species closer in. Most charters during winter in Galveston focus on protected bay systems or short runs to structure on good-weather days.
Gamefish in Galveston
- Redfish – 18–45+ inches Targeted year-round inshore using live mullet, shrimp, or soft plastics. Jetties and marsh points hold bulls in fall; slot reds common in the bays and back lakes.
- Speckled Trout – 12–28 inches Most active spring through early fall. Found over shell reefs, mud flats, and drop-offs. Live shrimp under corks or jigheads with paddle tails are go-to setups.
- Flounder – 14–24 inches Peak bite in fall during migration. Fished near jetties, drains, and channel edges using mud minnows, Gulp! baits, or by gigging at night.
- Black Drum – 16–40+ inches Caught around structure and deep channels, often on dead shrimp or crab. Bigger fish show up in winter, especially near the jetties.
- Sheepshead – 12–20 inches Targeted in winter and early spring around pilings and rocks. Fiddler crabs and shrimp on small hooks work best.
- Shark – 3–8 feet Common in summer nearshore and around bait pods. Cut bait on heavy gear is standard. Often caught while targeting other species.
- Tarpon – 60–150+ pounds Summer and early fall along the beachfront and jetties. Live mullet or crab freelined on heavy gear. Best on calm mornings.
- Red Snapper – 16–30 inches Caught offshore during federal season (usually summer). Fished over reefs and wrecks using squid, cut bait, or jigs.
- King Mackerel – 10–40 pounds Common offshore in summer, especially near rigs. Trolled ribbonfish or diving plugs are effective.
Galveston Fishing FAQs
What types of fishing charters are available in Galveston?
Galveston offers inshore, nearshore, and deep sea charters. Half-day bay trips are popular for redfish and trout, while full-day offshore runs chase snapper, kingfish, and more.
How far offshore do Galveston deep sea charters usually run?
Most deep sea trips run 20 to 50 miles out, depending on the target species and weather. Some go farther to hit oil rigs or deeper shelf edges.
When is flounder season in Galveston?
Flounder fishing peaks in fall, especially October and November, when they migrate through passes and stack up at the jetties.
What’s the best time of year to fish Galveston Bay?
Spring through early fall provides the most consistent inshore bite, with good trout, redfish, and flounder action throughout the bay system.
Are Galveston fishing charters kid-friendly?
Yes, many captains welcome kids and offer shorter, more hands-on trips that focus on fun species like trout, drum, or sand trout.
Where do most Galveston fishing charters launch from?
Most inshore and bay charters launch from public ramps or marinas near the Galveston Yacht Basin, West End, or Seawall area.
Do I need a fishing license for a Galveston charter?
Yes, unless you’re fishing from a licensed party boat or the guide provides one, each angler aged 17+ needs a valid Texas saltwater fishing license.
What should I bring on a Galveston charter trip?
Bring sunscreen, snacks, drinks, and weather-appropriate clothing. Most charters include gear, bait, and ice, but check with your captain beforehand.
Can we keep the fish we catch?
Most Galveston charters allow you to keep your legal catch. Your captain can help clean and bag fish at the dock, depending on local rules.
