Crystal Flats Guide Service CAPT CLIFF 

4.9
(36 reviews)
 
State licensed
 Texas 100 418, Port Isabel, TX 78578, United States–

Crystal Flats Guide Service CAPT CLIFF 

Port Isabel, TX, United States
–
24 ft
6
4.9
(36 reviews)

Inshore Mastery: Fishing the Crystal Flats with Captain Cliff Fleming
In the world of coastal angling, experience isn't just a number—it's a roadmap, a tide chart, and a secret lure all rolled into one. For those looking to unlock the legendary fishing grounds around Port Isabel, Texas, there is one name that stands out as the area's undisputed master: Captain Cliff Fleming of Crystal Flats Guide Service. With a staggering over 50 years of fishing experience in these exact local waters, Captain Cliff doesn't just run a charter; he offers an immersive, educational, and thrilling angling adventure that few guides can match.
This deep connection to the flats and the backcountry, spanning over four decades of professional guiding alone, means Captain Cliff knows precisely where the fish are holding, regardless of the season, the tide, or the weather. He has logged thousands of hours perfecting his techniques, understanding the subtle shifts in the ecosystem, and, most importantly, identifying the 'hideouts and tricks' of the area's most sought-after game fish. For the client, this translates into an unparalleled competitive edge. When you book a trip with Crystal Flats, you're not spending precious time searching; you're spending time catching. Aboard his meticulously outfitted vessel, you're in for a day that promises to be both a challenging pursuit of trophy fish and a relaxing, comfortable day on the water.
The Vessel: Engineered for the Flats
The foundation of any successful shallow-water charter is the boat, and Captain Cliff has chosen a true specialist: the 2022 24-foot Shallow Stalker Pro Cat. This machine is specifically engineered for the demanding Texas flats and bays, offering the perfect combination of shallow draft capability and superior comfort.
The Shallow Stalker Pro Cat is an impressive sight, but its performance. is what truly sets it apart. Powered by a robust 250 HP Yamaha SHO 4-stroke engine, the boat delivers exceptional control on the flats.

Inshore Mastery: Fishing the Crystal Flats with Captain Cliff Fleming
In the world of coastal angling, experience isn't just a number—it's a roadmap, a tide chart, and a secret lure all rolled into one. For those looking to unlock the legendary fishing grounds around Port Isabel, Texas, there is one name that stands out as the area's undisputed master: Captain Cliff Fleming of Crystal Flats Guide Service. With a staggering over 50 years of fishing experience in these exact local waters, Captain Cliff doesn't just run a charter; he offers an immersive, educational, and thrilling angling adventure that few guides can match.
This deep connection to the flats and the backcountry, spanning over four decades of professional guiding alone, means Captain Cliff knows precisely where the fish are holding, regardless of the season, the tide, or the weather. He has logged thousands of hours perfecting his techniques, understanding the subtle shifts in the ecosystem, and, most importantly, identifying the 'hideouts and tricks' of the area's most sought-after game fish. For the client, this translates into an unparalleled competitive edge. When you book a trip with Crystal Flats, you're not spending precious time searching; you're spending time catching. Aboard his meticulously outfitted vessel, you're in for a day that promises to be both a challenging pursuit of trophy fish and a relaxing, comfortable day on the water.
The Vessel: Engineered for the Flats
The foundation of any successful shallow-water charter is the boat, and Captain Cliff has chosen a true specialist: the 2022 24-foot Shallow Stalker Pro Cat. This machine is specifically engineered for the demanding Texas flats and bays, offering the perfect combination of shallow draft capability and superior comfort.
The Shallow Stalker Pro Cat is an impressive sight, but its performance. is what truly sets it apart. Powered by a robust 250 HP Yamaha SHO 4-stroke engine, the boat delivers exceptional control on the flats.

Crystal Flats Guide Service
Charter Operator
Crystal Flats Guide Service
52 years of experience
ID & credentials verified
responds within an hour

Select date to see availability

Trip date:
Group Size:
November 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
Loading...
Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
5 hr special price AM or PM
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
5 hour trip starts at 7:30 AM
Snapper (Mangrove)
Black Drum
Redfish
Sheepshead
+1
US $550
Entire boat: 2 people
6 hr Flats trip AM or PM
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
7 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Snapper (Mangrove)
Black Drum
Redfish
Sheepshead
+1
US $675
Entire boat: 2 people
8 hr trip AM
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Snapper (Mangrove)
Black Drum
Redfish
Sheepshead
+1
US $850
Entire boat: 2 people
10 hour POWER DAY
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
10 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Snook
Snapper (Mangrove)
Black Drum
Redfish
+3
US $1,500
Entire boat: 2 people

Customer reviews

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Rating

4.9
36 reviews
4.9
Boat & equipment
4.9
Captain & crew
4.8
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (110)

What anglers say

94%
Recommended
94%
Caught fish

Reviews (36)

  • Erik Diehl
    Erik Diehl
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Great catch

    5 hr special price AM or PM on September 26, 2026 • 2 adults

    Captain Flemming knows the area very well. We had a good haul and I highly recommend.

  • Timothy Gertson
    Timothy Gertson
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Great guide!

    5 hr special price AM or PM on June 12, 2026 • 3 adults • 2 children

    Captain Cliff was awesome. Super chill and he put us on the fish.

  • Anna Kusey
    Anna Kusey
    us
    Wisconsin, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Great Captain

    4 hr trip Am on March 1, 2026 • 2 adults

    Cliff was great to spend time with. He was knowledgeable, low-key, and friendly. We had a great day on the water and caught plenty of fish. The boat was roomy.

  • Travis Morr
    Travis Morr
    Member since 2026
    5.0

    Half a day with Crystal Flats

    5 hr special price AM or PM on February 5, 2026

    Had a great time. Capt. Cliff was great with the kids and put us on the fish.

  • Rusbel Salinas
    Rusbel Salinas
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0

    Fishing with Captain Clifford

    on February 24, 2026
  • Angela Miller
    Angela Miller
    us
    Missouri, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Fish catching adventure with Capt Cliff

    5 hr special price AM or PM on April 24, 2025 • 2 adults

    Capt Cliff greeted in the morning with a smile! Capt CIiff is laid back and keeps a level of professional skill in his trade. He gave us some basic tips and other tips of knowledge, remembered and used our names (maybe he had a post-it but it feels good that someone took the time to do this). My dog was allowed to go fishing with me which just brought joy to my heart. We caught multiple fish thanks to Capt Cliff working to keep us on them. I had such a great time and would highly recommend!

  • Shane Gross
    Shane Gross
    us
    Iowa, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Iowa comes to South Padre Island

    5 hr special price AM or PM on February 18, 2025 • 3 adults

    I had the best experience with my two twenty something sons. We caught our limit in 2 hours, what an awesome day! Captain Cliff was very knowledgeable and obviously knows how to fish, and made it fun.

  • Christopher Lung
    Christopher Lung
    us
    Indiana, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Capt Cliff

    5 hr special price AM or PM on October 13, 2025 • 2 adults • 1 child

    Captain Cliff was a great guide for us. He did wonderfully with my 11 year old. We hooked in several fish and brought quite a few back. I highly recommend Cliff.

  • Kristina Bartlett
    Kristina Bartlett
    us
    Wyoming, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Kid friendly!

    5 hr special price AM or PM on March 31, 2025 • 4 adults • 2 children

    We are by far not experienced in fishing but love trying it when we travel. Captain Cliff was so patient with our 10 and 7 year old! We caught fish and made some wonderful family memories.

  • Sidney Sosa
    Sidney Sosa
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Awesome

    5 hr special price AM or PM on August 16, 2025 • 3 adults • 1 child

    My kids and I had an excellent time. Definitely will be back.

FAQs about Crystal Flats Guide Service CAPT CLIFF

Crystal Flats Guide Service CAPT CLIFF offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $550 per group, additional US $100 per person after 2 guests - 5 hr special price AM or PM (5 hours)
  • US $675 per group, additional US $100 per person after 2 guests - 6 hr Flats trip AM or PM (7 hours)
  • US $850 per group, additional US $125 per person after 2 guests - 8 hr trip AM (8 hours)
  • US $1,100 per group, additional US $400 per person after 1 guest - 10 hour POWER DAY (10 hours)
When you book a trip with Crystal Flats Guide Service CAPT CLIFF, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • GPS GARMIN TOUCH SCREEN ENGINE DATA WIFI FUSION FM
  • Fishfinder Garmin livescope GPS Sideview Clearview Traditiona
  • Flybridge RAISED CONSOLE T-TOP
  • Live bait well BAIT AND FISH LIVE WELL BUBBLES AND RULE WATER PUM
  • Multimedia system Play youe favorite tunes on my Bluetooth system
  • Wireless trolling motor MOTORGUIDE SPOT LOCK REMOTE 10 FT Power pole,
  • Ice box YETI 5 DAYS ICE RETENTION
  • Radar
Trips booked with Crystal Flats Guide Service CAPT CLIFF include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle (Shimano and Temple Fork Outfitters)
  • Live bait (Not included based on price and hours)
  • Lures (Sponsored by Z-man, DOA,HHlure Cocahoes)
  • Catch cleaning & filleting (Fish cleaning not included services available )
  • Drinks (waters available bring what you like)
Crystal Flats Guide Service CAPT CLIFF offers the following types of fishing:
  • Inshore fishing (Lower Laguna Madre Bay)
  • Nearshore fishing (South Padre Island Jetties and Boca Chica Jetties)
  • Reef fishing
  • Flats fishing (Redfish Trout snook Brownsville Ship Chan)
  • Backcountry fishing (SHALLOW WATER SIGHT FISHING LIGHT TACKLE)
Crystal Flats Guide Service CAPT CLIFF offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Bottom fishing
  • Trolling
  • Spinning
  • Jigging
  • Popping
  • Fly fishing
  • Drift fishing
Top targeted fish species with Crystal Flats Guide Service CAPT CLIFF include:
  • Black Drum
  • Flounder
  • Redfish
  • Sheepshead
  • Snapper (Mangrove)
  • Snook
  • Speckled Trout

Your operator

Crystal Flats Guide Service
Crystal Flats Guide Service
Port Isabel, Texas, United States
18 Fishing Reports
ID & license verified
36 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since September 2018
# Experience Premier South Padre Island Fishing with Captain Cliff Fleming Hello! I'm **Captain Cliff Fleming**, and for me, the water isn't just a destination—it's a way of life. My journey began in the rich coastal waters of the Rio Grande Valley where, by the 8th grade, I was already guiding anglers to their first big saltwater catches. Decades later, that same drive pushes me to be on the water every single day. My mission is simple: **To share the thrill of the catch with you.** Whether you are a seasoned pro looking for a challenge, a family on vacation, or a total beginner picking up a rod for the first time, I am here to guide you, teach you, and immerse you in the local lore of South Texas. ## Why Book Your Adventure with Captain Cliff? When you step onto my boat, you aren't just booking a charter; you're gaining access to a lifetime of local expertise and a professional standard of service. ### ⚓ Unmatched Professionalism I am a **USCG Licensed Master (100 Ton/GRT)** Charter Captain. That means you are in the hands of a highly qualified professional with decades of hands-on experience navigating the unique currents and honey-holes of South Texas. ### ? Top-Tier Equipment Success on the water requires the right tools. I provide **state-of-the-art gear** and a meticulously maintained, high-quality vessel designed to keep your bay fishing trip comfortable, safe, and—most importantly—productive. ### ? More Than Just a Guide I pride myself on being easy-going, friendly
Crystal Flats Guide Service
Crystal Flats Guide Service
Fully verified
18
reports
36
reviews
2018
member since
~1h
response
# Experience Premier South Padre Island Fishing with Captain Cliff Fleming Hello! I'm **Captain Cliff Fleming**, and for me, the water isn't just a destination—it's a way of life. My journey began in the rich coastal waters of the Rio Grande Valley where, by the 8th grade, I was already guiding anglers to their first big saltwater catches. Decades later, that same drive pushes me to be on the water every single day. My mission is simple: **To share the thrill of the catch with you.** Whether you are a seasoned pro looking for a challenge, a family on vacation, or a total beginner picking up a rod for the first time, I am here to guide you, teach you, and immerse you in the local lore of South Texas. ## Why Book Your Adventure with Captain Cliff? When you step onto my boat, you aren't just booking a charter; you're gaining access to a lifetime of local expertise and a professional standard of service. ### ⚓ Unmatched Professionalism I am a **USCG Licensed Master (100 Ton/GRT)** Charter Captain. That means you are in the hands of a highly qualified professional with decades of hands-on experience navigating the unique currents and honey-holes of South Texas. ### ? Top-Tier Equipment Success on the water requires the right tools. I provide **state-of-the-art gear** and a meticulously maintained, high-quality vessel designed to keep your bay fishing trip comfortable, safe, and—most importantly—productive. ### ? More Than Just a Guide I pride myself on being easy-going, friendly

The fish you can target

Black Drum
Black Drum
Flounder
Flounder
Redfish
Redfish
Sheepshead
Sheepshead
Mangrove Snapper
Mangrove Snapper
Snook
Snook
Speckled Trout
Speckled Trout
Black Drum
Black Drum
Flounder
Flounder
Redfish
Redfish
Sheepshead
Sheepshead
Mangrove Snapper
Mangrove Snapper

Real catches by this captain

  • A variety of fish including Speckled Trout and Redfish neatly arranged on a dock, showcasing a successful fishing trip.
    Fish 1
    Redfish
    Erik D.
    Erik D.
    Captain Flemming knows the area very well. We had a good haul and I highly recommend.
  • A proud angler displaying a large Redfish aboard a fishing boat, enjoying a sunny day on the water.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Redfish
    Andrea G.
    Andrea G.
  • Angler proudly displaying a large Speckled Trout while fishing in open waters.
    Timothy G.
    Timothy G.
    Captain Cliff was awesome. Super chill and he put us on the fish.
  • A family poses proudly in front of a catch board displaying several fish at the White Sands Motel and Marina, showcasing their successful fishing trip.
    Byron T.
    Byron T.
  • A well-maintained fishing boat docked under a structure, showcasing its clean exterior and spacious layout.
    Dan L.
    Dan L.
    Captain Cliff did an outstanding job today! Nice boat and tackle. Moved around to find the fish. Speckled trout and Red Drum. Enjoy your trip my friends. Dan and Julie from Wisconsin. GPG!
  • Two anglers proudly displaying a large Speckled Trout while fishing on a boat in coastal waters.
    Anna K.
    Anna K.
    Cliff was great to spend time with. He was knowledgeable, low-key, and friendly. We had a great day on the water and caught plenty of fish. The boat was roomy.
  • Adult angler proudly holding a large red drum on a center-console fishing boat in coastal waters.
    Fish 1
    Black Drum
    Todd S.
    Todd S.
    Fished multi species and with various tackle. Cliff was very knowledge and fun. Highly recommended.
  • A smiling angler taking a selfie inside the boat, showcasing the helm area and a relaxed fishing atmosphere.
    Jose E.
    Jose E.
    We Had a Great get away Time, My wife, Daughter and i had a great time Fishing! Captain Clif was Very Patient Teaching our 10 Yr old Daughter how to properly cast the Fishing Rod , She Got it ! Thanks
  • Young angler proudly holding a large Redfish while on a boat, showcasing a successful fishing trip.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    +1
    Redfish
    Christopher L.
    Christopher L.
    Captain Cliff was a great guide for us. He did wonderfully with my 11 year old. We hooked in several fish and brought quite a few back. I highly recommend Cliff.
  • Two young anglers proudly standing behind a catch board displaying an impressive haul of Speckled Trout and Black Drum at a dock.
    Fish 1
    Black Drum
    Sidney S.
    Sidney S.
    My kids and I had an excellent time. Definitely will be back.

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Center console boats
Capacity
6 persons
Boat length
24 ft
Year built
2023
Restored in
2026
Boat manufacturer
Shallow Stalker 240 PRO CAT
Boat type
Center console
Engine model
2026 250 Yamaha SHO four stroke
Powered by
1 x 250HP
Max cruising speed
50 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Inshore Fishing
Nearshore Fishing
Reef Fishing
Flats Fishing
Backcountry Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Bottom Fishing
Trolling
Spinning
Jigging
Popping
Fly Fishing
Drift Fishing

Which amenities are available onboard

GPS
GARMIN TOUCH SCREEN ENGINE DATA WIFI FUSION FM
Fishfinder
Garmin livescope GPS Sideview Clearview Traditiona
Flybridge
RAISED CONSOLE T-TOP
Live bait well
BAIT AND FISH LIVE WELL BUBBLES AND RULE WATER PUM
Multimedia system
Play youe favorite tunes on my Bluetooth system
Wireless trolling motor
MOTORGUIDE SPOT LOCK REMOTE 10 FT Power pole,
Ice box
YETI 5 DAYS ICE RETENTION
Radar
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Shimano and Temple Fork Outfitters
Live bait
Not included based on price and hours
Lures
Sponsored by Z-man, DOA,HHlure Cocahoes
Catch cleaning & filleting
Fish cleaning not included services available
Drinks
waters available bring what you like

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 3 days prior to trip
You can cancel or modify your booking up to 3 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.
More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup not included
Transfer to/from departure site is not included in trip rates.
Child friendly
Everyone welcome no age limits
You keep catch
Fish cleaning available
Catch and release allowed

How you can pay

Book with 70% deposit, pay rest to captain
When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 70% deposit to guarantee your reservation.
The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:
 Cash
 Visa
 Mastercard
 American Express
When paying the remaining balance with a credit card, an additional 5% charge will apply.

What’s biting in Port Isabel right now

Black DrumBlack Drum
FlounderFlounder
RedfishRedfish
SheepsheadSheepshead
Snapper (Mangrove)Snapper (Mangrove)
SnookSnook
Speckled TroutSpeckled Trout

Compare similar fishing charters

Current
Crystal Flats Guide Service CAPT CLIFF
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