Crystal Flats Guide Service CAPT CLIFF 

4.9/5 (35 reviews)
 
State licensed
 Texas 100 418, Port Isabel, TX 78578, United States

Crystal Flats Guide Service CAPT CLIFF 

Up to 9 miles
Port Isabel, TX, United States
24 ft
6
4.9/5 (35 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

Trip availability and prices

Trip Date:
Group Size:
Select date to see availability
August 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
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Number of days
1
Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
Almost there...
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
There is 1 person looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

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Rating

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

Anglers' gallery (103)

What anglers say

94%
Recommended
94%
Caught fish

All reviews (35)

Frequently mentioned
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Showing 15 of 35 reviews
Dan Leanna
Dan Leanna
us
Wisconsin, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Port Isabel bay fishing
5 hr special price AM or PM on March 4, 20262 adults

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!

Reported catch:
Redfish
Speckled Trout
Crystal Flats Guide Service
Response from Charter operator

Thanks Dan see you in a week or two for round 2. Looking forward to it.

Andrea Glessner
Andrea Glessner
us
Illinois, US
Member since 2024
5.0
Verified
New
July fishing trip
5 hr special price AM or PM on July 31, 20262 adults2 children

Anna Kusey
Anna Kusey
us
Wisconsin, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Great Captain
4 hr trip Am on March 1, 20262 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.

Reported catch:
Speckled Trout
Crystal Flats Guide Service
Response from Charter operator

Thank you for the great review Anna I hope you have a wonderful bring your own catch meal at Blackbeard's. I'm posting a little guy who helped me clean the fish the great blue heron and I hope you come back soon thanks Captain cliff

Todd Schield
Todd Schield
Repeat angler
us
Arizona, US
Member since 2021
3 trips
5.0
Verified
On fish all day, great trip
5 hr special price AM or PM on February 26, 20262 adults

Fished multi species and with various tackle. Cliff was very knowledge and fun. Highly recommended.

Crystal Flats Guide Service
Response from Charter operator

Todd you and your wife were a pleasure to have on the boat and a riot to fish with. I hope when you're in the area again someday soon we can go again. I'm glad Blackbeards' took good care of you cooking the fish you caught.

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, 20261 adult2 children

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

Crystal Flats Guide Service
Response from Charter operator

Thanks Timothy you and your son were a pleasure to fish with. Here's another angle of that 25 inch smoking trout.

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 (Shimano Reels 7 ft rods)
  • Bottom fishing
  • Trolling (Near shore during prime season King,Reds,Spanish 0)
  • Spinning (SHIMANO CI4 2500)
  • Jigging (Live bait not included based on price)
  • Popping
  • Fly fishing (TEMPLE FORK OUTFITTERS Bring your flies)
  • Drift fishing (Mostly drifiting)
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
Crystal Flats Guide Service

Port Isabel, Texas, United States

18 Fishing Reports
ID & license verified
35 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

18 Fishing Reports
ID & license verified
35 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

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

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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
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

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Shimano Reels 7 ft rods
Bottom Fishing
Trolling
Near shore during prime season King,Reds,Spanish 0
Spinning
SHIMANO CI4 2500
Jigging
Live bait not included based on price
Popping
Fly Fishing
TEMPLE FORK OUTFITTERS Bring your flies
Drift Fishing
Mostly drifiting

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

Pay online in full

Pay online in full through FishingBooker and save on credit card fees at the dock.

No additional fees.

Book with 50% deposit, pay rest to captain

When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 50% 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

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