Freeport

With a wildlife refuge on either side and the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico on the other, Freeport literally offers a breath of fresh air for people coming on a daytrip down from Houston. And it’s not just the people who like hanging out here. Plenty of fish drop by in these parts throughout the year, too.

Freeport is in the fortunate position of being right in between the extensive Galveston Bay system and the rather more chilled-out Matagorda Bay. What’s this mean? Well, it means that if the backcountry beckons, you don’t have far to go. Healthy populations of Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, Black Drum, and Sheepshead, are all waiting. Gear up and go get ‘em in those irresistible Freeport fishing spots such as the San Luis Pass, Chocolate Bay, and Christmas Bay.

That’s just the surface of Freeport, though. What really gets people excited in these parts is the freedom of the open sea. And when this is one of the best places to make the most of Texas’s year-round Red Snapper season in state waters, you can hardly blame them. Looking for something more energetic than Snapper fishing? Try going after Kingfish, Sharks, or Cobia. All these are there for the catching within ten miles of the coastline.

OK, ok, so that’s all very good. But real diehard anglers in Freeport know that there’s a lot more to these waters. That’s because offshore fishing from Freeport Texas gets you closer than most anywhere else to the legendary Alaminos Canyon, the spawning-grounds of a number of Billfish and Tuna species. And with deepwater mountain ranges, oil rigs, relatively low offshore fishing pressure, and a firmly-established sportfishing tradition under its belt, this is the port to depart from if you want to sample some of the best fishing in Texas.

Freeport party boats and fishing charters do not usually include fishing licenses in their trip prices. Make sure to purchase a valid Texas fishing license with a saltwater stamp in order to be allowed on the boat.

Target Speckled Trout in the bays. Drift and wade fishing are both effective. Have the most fun by coming equipped with soft plastics, MirrOlures, and shrimp. Otherwise, look out for huge Bull Redfish over the nearshore reefs and ledges. Everything’s bigger in Texas, and you’ll seriously believe that when you see one of these big girls.

For an even more weighty catch, travel into the offshore waters for big game. Things start to get really fun 60 miles out, with 110 miles out being even better. This is where the pioneers of big game fishing in Texas cut their teeth - and a good deep sea fishing charter will get you following in their footsteps. Look out for 700 lb plus Blue Marlin, Swordfish, Sailfish, Tuna, and much more.

Overnight charters a little too far? You can still get some great catches of Blackfin Tuna within the range of a day trip. Just look out for the shrimp boats and chum with chunks of diced bait. Feeling adventurous? See what’s the biggest fish you can hook on light tackle or on the fly!