By now, we all know the saying “Everything’s bigger in Texas!” All you angling enthusiasts out there will be pleased to know that this applies to the fishing in Galveston, too. Looking to drop lines around artificial reefs and abandoned shipwrecks, hit the bays, or battle huge big game fish offshore? The angling action here is so diverse that knowing where to start can be tough. This is why we’re here to tell you all about the Galveston party boat fishing scene.
Whether you’re looking to meet some new fishing buddies or cast your line on a budget, party boats are an excellent way to experience Galveston’s fish-filled waters without breaking the bank. This article will cover everything you need to know about the types of fish you can target, what party boat trips and prices usually look like in Galveston, and much more. Let’s dive in…
What can I expect on a Galveston party boat?
Never been on a party boat before? Basically, think of it as being very similar to a regular charter boat, except that you’ll reserve a spot instead of having the whole boat to yourself or your group. Party boats are also usually (but not always) much bigger than your regular charter boats. That way, they can accommodate plenty of guests! Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect:
- A boatful of new angling buddies. Perhaps the most enticing part of fishing on a party boat is the sheer number of new people you’ll meet. You’re all there with one shared goal – to hook plenty of fish or chase that trophy species. You already know that you’ll be around like-minded individuals! Anyone from children to experienced anglers are welcome aboard.
- Shorter trips that focus on hitting the hotspots. While private charter trips can involve spending the best part of a day out on the water, party boat trips focus more on speeding from one hotspot to another to get plenty of fishing in. Most trips last between 4–6 hours, although some companies offer trips that hit the 8- or 10-hour mark.
- A cheaper cost, but less personal interaction. Your captain will spend the majority of the trip identifying and traveling to good fishing spots, while crew members interact more with the guests. However, due to the sheer number of anglers on board, you can generally expect less interaction from your captain and crew than on a private trip.
- Fewer lines in the water. When you’re fishing on board a private charter, you’ll often troll or drop more than one line per guest. This increases the chance of a catch, but it’s not practical on a shared party boat due to the sheer number of anglers. You’ll usually only be able to fish with one rod per person.
- Bait, tackle, and rods are included – but licenses usually aren’t. In Galveston, the cost of your party boat trip generally includes a variety of fishing rods, tackle, and bait. However, you’ll usually need to pay a little extra if you’d like your captain to organize your fishing license for you. You can also choose to purchase one yourself.
Where can I go fishing on a Galveston party boat?
Galveston boasts incredible inshore, nearshore, and offshore fishing action. If you’re casting a line aboard a party boat, the most popular choice is fishing around the area’s many reefs and wrecks. This is because the larger boats used for these types of trips generally fare better on deep, open waters, and the reefs and wrecks require less travel time to reach than the bluewaters.
That’s not to say you can’t go party boat fishing on the bays or further offshore, though! Party boats in the area offer trips covering everything from the bays to the Gulf’s depths. Below, we’ve covered all types of party boat fishing in Galveston, as well as the fish species you may encounter. Take a look to get a better idea of what trip type suits you best…
Bay Fishing
When it comes to fishing the shallow waters in Galveston, there’s one place that stands head and shoulders above the rest: the city’s namesake, Galveston Bay. This brackish estuary is connected to the Gulf of Mexico and surrounded by sub-tropical marshes and prairies on the mainland. This means you’ll be treated to a whopping variety of fish species.
You can expect to encounter anything from Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Flounder to Sheepshead, Black Drum, Sharks, Jack Crevalle, Mangrove Snapper, and Croaker. The most common types of fishing are casting with light tackle and jigging. If you’re bringing along your own tackle box, make sure to pack some popping corks – these are especially successful if you’re looking to hook Bull Reds.
Fishing on Galveston Bay is a great option if you’re looking to spend less time on the water, too. You’ll be able to start casting your line pretty soon after departing the dock, which means you can explore this fishery on a half day trip and still fit in plenty of angling action. Most trips start at the 5-hour mark, but you can also opt to spend a full day casting your line.
Reef and Wreck Fishing
Galveston is perfectly positioned on the Gulf of Mexico, and the nearshore waters here are packed with reefs and shipwrecks scattered along the sea bottom. These underwater structures provide thriving ecosystems that attract bait fish – as well as larger species that follow their prey here!
We’re talking Blacktip Shark, Bonnethead Shark, Bull Shark, Cobia, King Mackerel, Tripletail, and the occasional Mahi and Wahoo. Then there’s the jewel in Galveston’s nearshore fishing crown – Red Snapper.
These fish can be found lurking in Galveston’s state and federal waters, but are subject to strict closed seasons. Make sure you’re up to date with the latest rules. Federal waters are open year-round for Red Snapper fishing, but you need to make sure you’re fishing aboard a federally-licensed party boat.
These nearshore trips are all about bottom fishing, with some trolling thrown in for good measure. If you’re ready to work your muscles a little harder, this is definitely the option for you. You’ll usually travel at least a few miles from shore to reach deeper waters. Opting for a full day on the water will let you fit in as much fishing as possible, with trips around the 8-hour mark being common.
Offshore Fishing
If you’re looking to encounter some world-famous big game fish, then Galveston’s definitely got you covered. The bluewaters of the mighty Gulf of Mexico lie in wait, and they’re packed full of hard-fighters that give true meaning to the term “angling action”! You’ll usually be bottom fishing or trolling to get your hands on the fish that live here. Believe us when we say that trying to reel one of them in isn’t for the faint of heart.
Not only will you encounter larger varieties of species that lurk nearshore, such as Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, and Red Snapper, but you’ll also have the chance to come across Yellowfin Tuna, Blackfin Tuna, huge Jacks, a bigger variety of Sharks, and some true sport fishing favorites – Billfish. Marlin and Sailfish inhabit these waters, with some varieties weighing up to 1,000 pounds.
The only downside of battling these incredible fish is that you’ll have to travel quite a distance to reach ’em. Galveston’s best deep sea fishing grounds lie a whopping 60–100 miles offshore, so you’ll spend a chunk of your trip time traveling to your captain’s chosen fishing spot. Because of this, it’s best to opt for a full or extended full day trip. That way, you won’t miss out on any of the action.
What trip length should I choose?
There are many different factors to consider when deciding how long to stay out on the water for:
- How much money are you willing to part with? Although party boat fishing in Galveston is cheaper than hiring a private charter, trip length can have a big pretty big impact on the cost you’ll end up paying. If you’re looking to keep costs on the lower side, a shorter trip is the best option. If you can afford to head offshore, go for it!
- Are you prone to getting seasick? For those of us that have traveled out to choppier waters only to be hit with a bout of seasickness, we know how much impact it can have! Nearshore and offshore trips generally involve navigating unpredictable waters, whereas trips in the bay are much calmer.
- How much fishing experience do you have? If this is your first time fishing, we’d strongly recommend opting for a shorter trip. Keep in mind that you probably won’t be battling big game fish or hooking that trophy Red Snapper, and use it as a trial run to see how much you enjoy fishing.
- Will you be traveling with kids? Most party boats in Galveston are kid-friendly, which is great. If your children are on the younger side or have never fished before, a half day trip on the bay is a fantastic introduction.
When should I go party boat fishing in Galveston?
Thanks to its location on the Gulf Coast, Galveston is blessed with warm weather year-round. Between May and October is probably the best time to head out, especially if you’re looking to go deep sea fishing. This is peak Billfish season, and Mahi Mahi and Wahoo fill these waters in huge numbers, too.
If it’s Red Snapper you’re after, keep in mind that the state waters season opens in June, usually for a very short period – 10 days is the norm. You’ll want to book your place on a Galveston party boat very early in advance to avoid disappointment.
What should I bring with me on a Galveston party boat?
- Your favorite fishing gear. Although a large number of Galveston’s party boats provide fishing gear, you’re welcome to bring your own. If you have a favorite rod and reel set-up that you’re familiar with, make sure you pack it.
- Comfortable, old clothing. There’s no way around it – fishing is a messy business! Wear comfy clothes that you don’t mind getting wet or dirty. Make sure you pack according to the weather and the type of trip you’ve opted for. Sunscreen is a must year-round.
- Food and drinks. Most party boats charge extra for food and drinks, but are happy for you to bring your own with you. Water is a must, as well as some snacks that’ll keep your energy up.
- Seasickness medication. If you’ve never gone fishing before, or are prone to seasickness, bringing along some Dramamine or an alternative is a must.
- A small cooler. Many party boats will clean your catch for you, so you’ll want to make sure you can keep it fresh on the journey home.
- Cash for tips. This is the best way to show your captain and party boat crew how much you’ve enjoyed your trip. The industry standard is 10–20% of the trip, but you can always ask your captain for more information.
Galveston Party Boat Fishing: Exciting, Affordable Angling Action
By now, we hope you have all the information about Galveston party boat fishing that you need right here at your fingertips. Like what you see? Then party boat fishing is likely for you. It really is an unbeatable experience. You’ll make some new angling buddies and get to explore some incredible fisheries, all for a very reasonable price! Why not see what’s on offer near you and try it out for yourself?
Ever been party boat fishing in Galveston before? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below!
