South Padre Island Fishing Charters

The best out of 117 charter fishing deals in South Padre Island - enter dates to check availability

South Padre Island: 117 fishing charters available
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(47 reviews)
South Padre Island
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $425
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(8 reviews)
South Padre Island
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $300
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(137 reviews)
South Padre Island
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $500
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(121 reviews)
South Padre Island
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $450
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(346 reviews)
South Padre Island
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $400
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(123 reviews)
South Padre Island
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $425
Just listed
South Padre Island
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $500
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(128 reviews)
South Padre Island
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $400
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(93 reviews)
South Padre Island
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $400
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(24 reviews)
South Padre Island
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $450

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in South Padre Island

According to customer reviews, some of the most popular fishing charters in South Padre Island, Texas are: Full list of top fishing charters in South Padre Island

The average price for a private 4 hour South Padre Island fishing trip is US $547, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $1,307 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Fishing charters in South Padre Island that received great reviews from families are:

The top 3 fish species targeted on guided fishing trips in South Padre Island are:

The top 3 fishing techniques in South Padre Island are:

The top 3 types of fishing in South Padre Island are:

Many fishing charters in South Padre Island provide rods, reels and tackle. Some of the top rated are:

According to customer reviews on FishingBooker.com, some of the best rated charter captains in South Padre Island are:

Who are the top awarded captains in South Padre Island?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in South Padre Island are:
  • 3-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $342
  • 4-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $367
  • 5-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $479
  • 8-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $735

Fishing in South Padre Island

Reefs, bays, oil rigs, shipwrecks – they all surround this stunning barrier island, and there’s hardly a better way to explore them than by hopping aboard a South Padre Island fishing charter. On one side, explore the shallow waters of Laguna Madre, and on the other, the mighty Gulf of Mexico. It’s no wonder that this is one of the most productive fisheries in the state – there’s just so much water around it!

The sheer abundance of fish here is enough to make you want to visit. The inshore waters are brimming with Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, Black Drum, and Sheepshead, while the reefs hold trophy Snapper and Grouper species. Heading offshore into deep Gulf waters will see you going after Marlin, Mahi Mahi, Tuna, Sailfish, and many more beasts.

When it comes to choosing a trip in the South Padre Island area, it  depends on your ambitions. If you’re looking for some quality family time, it’s best to book a half day trip. This is a great introduction to fishing in the area, and you’ll get to relax and make some nice memories. If you’re looking for a more action-packed adventure, consider booking a full day to visit the deep offshore waters.

All that’s left to do now is find the perfect charter for you! Head over to the southern tip of the island where you’ll see them dotted along the water. Port Mansfield, Arroyo City, and Port Isabel are some of the other places where you’ll find captains ready to take you out.

Rules & Regulations

When fishing in the waters off South Padre Island, make sure you follow Texas state regulations. This means you’ll need a fishing license if you’re 17 or older, regardless of whether you’re fishing on your own or aboard a fishing charter.

South Padre Island
Excellent
4.8 / 5
Based on 28443 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

South Padre Island Fishing Seasons

January

Head to Baffin Bay to target Specks. They can get super big and super tasty. Slow down your presentation as Trout save energy in winter. This is a great time to target Snook in deep channels.

February

If you go towards the Upper Laguna Madre, you can hope to catch Black Drum. They will go for dead shrimp and cracked crabs, although cut bait may also work. Trout and Snook are still around, too.

March

Reds are biting well, with Trout and Flounder also kicking in. Farther out, the first few Kingfish start to show up, and you might even see Tarpon roll into Brazos Santiago Pass.

April

You can get Reds out on the grass flats, as well as Specks where shallow waters meet deeper spots. Black Drum is a common sight. Nearshore waters are heating up, with Red Snapper taking baits on the reefs.

May

Things pick up across the board in May. Kingfish, Cobia, and Snapper are biting nearshore. Wahoo, Tuna, Mahi Mahi, and Billfish show up around the rigs. And of course, Reds and Specks hunt in the shallows.

June

June is one of the best fishing months in South Padre Island. Federal waters open for Red Snapper. Sailfish, Tuna, and Wahoo are biting offshore. As if that's not enough, Tarpon, Trout, and Snook fishing is on fire.

July

You can reach offshore spots and troll for Wahoo, Tuna, and Mahi Mahi. Red Snapper should still be open in federal waters. Inshore, Tarpon and Snook hit their peak. Fly fishing anyone?

August

Offshore, you can get Amberjack, Yellowfin Tuna, Wahoo, and Mahis. If you’re here for your summer break, a family trip around the bays should yield Reds, Specks, Flounder, and more.

September

Flounder time! The fish will hide around grass beds and near passes. There are also Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, and Trout about. If the weather allows it, Snapper in state waters are a big deal.

October

A lot to catch. Reds, Specks, Snook hide around jetties, waiting to crush your bait. Flounder are here to make things even more interesting. Offshore, Blackfin and Yellowfin Tuna await.

November

The water is starting to cool down but the fishing stays hot. Find a bay fishing guide to take you after Redfish and Snook. If you’re heading far out, you may come across Tuna, Wahoo, and even Sailfish.

December

Cold fronts might mess up your plans every now and then, but generally fishing is good. The inshore bite is best, with Red Drum, Trout, Snook, Flounder, and more.

South Padre Island Fishing Calendar

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Featured photos from South Padre Island

What anglers said about fishing in South Padre Island

Donโ€™t bring a bunch of snacks, you wonโ€™t have time to eat them. Too busy bringing in fish!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Donโ€™t bring a bunch of snacks, you wonโ€™t have time to eat them. Too busy bringing in fish!
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Book a trip with Hector Lopez, he does everything possible to make the experience a great time.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Book a trip with Hector Lopez, he does everything possible to make the experience a great time.
Capt.Hector Lopez Fishing Charters
Capt.Hector Lopez Fishing Charters
If you are going in February, don't expect to limit out due to the nature of the fish! They are less active this time of year. The captains will put you on fish though, and it is always an amazing experience to fish the Texas bays!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
If you are going in February, don't expect to limit out due to the nature of the fish! They are less active this time of year. The captains will put you on fish though, and it is always an amazing experience to fish the Texas bays!
Drift Water Charters
Drift Water Charters
Capt. Jerry Bradford is top notch Capt. He is a must book for a fun time of fishing and will put you on the fish. Had a great time and found a chater for life when we vist. If you want a no presure great time fishing then pick Capt. Jerry you are not just a client you are famly.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Capt. Jerry Bradford is top notch Capt. He is a must book for a fun time of fishing and will put you on the fish. Had a great time and found a chater for life when we vist. If you want a no presure great time fishing then pick Capt. Jerry you are not just a client you are famly.
Laguna Madre Madness
Laguna Madre Madness
Top notch charter and captain from booking until he cleaned all of our fish! Amazing day
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Top notch charter and captain from booking until he cleaned all of our fish! Amazing day
Laguna Madre Madness
Laguna Madre Madness
Captain said that the seaweed is worse this time of year which makes it harder with lures.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Captain said that the seaweed is worse this time of year which makes it harder with lures.
Get'm Hook'd Fishing Charters
Get'm Hook'd Fishing Charters
Take a private charter if you want a more personal experience, otherwise go out into the gulf on a bigger boat.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Take a private charter if you want a more personal experience, otherwise go out into the gulf on a bigger boat.
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Hire an expert guide like Captain Hector Lopez and tell him what kind of fish you want to catch. He knows the different locations that hold different species.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Hire an expert guide like Captain Hector Lopez and tell him what kind of fish you want to catch. He knows the different locations that hold different species.
Capt.Hector Lopez Fishing Charters
Capt.Hector Lopez Fishing Charters FAIR OAKS, TX
Trout were slow because of the Texas heat but overall a great time, even in the dead of summer.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Trout were slow because of the Texas heat but overall a great time, even in the dead of summer.
Drift Water Charters
Drift Water Charters San Antonio, TX
The water was warm, definitely worth fishing on the laguna, I would recommend the morning because I think it would be really hot in the afternoon if there wasn't much of a breeze.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The water was warm, definitely worth fishing on the laguna, I would recommend the morning because I think it would be really hot in the afternoon if there wasn't much of a breeze.
Drift Water Charters
Drift Water Charters San Antonio, TX
Book early and on weekdays if possible. Figure at least16 oz of water or Gatorade per hour per person. Your cooler and your ice and drinks. Save the alcoholic drinks for the ride back in.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Book early and on weekdays if possible. Figure at least16 oz of water or Gatorade per hour per person. Your cooler and your ice and drinks. Save the alcoholic drinks for the ride back in.
Todds Sportfishing
Todds Sportfishing McAllen, TX
Donโ€™t worry about bringing lunch if you just do the 5 hours trip. You are so busy taking it all in and fishing that a snack is not necessary. Bring a small cooler for beverages and they provide everything else. Bring sunscreen and a positive mind and your will enjoy every second.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Donโ€™t worry about bringing lunch if you just do the 5 hours trip. You are so busy taking it all in and fishing that a snack is not necessary. Bring a small cooler for beverages and they provide everything else. Bring sunscreen and a positive mind and your will enjoy every second.
SPI Freedom Fishing
SPI Freedom Fishing
We have enjoyed deep sea fishing, shore fishing and bay fishing in South Padre. Regardless of which type of trip you choose, you're very likely to catch something. Plan to keep your catch -- many restaurants offer at least a few different ways to cook it for you.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
We have enjoyed deep sea fishing, shore fishing and bay fishing in South Padre. Regardless of which type of trip you choose, you're very likely to catch something. Plan to keep your catch -- many restaurants offer at least a few different ways to cook it for you.
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures United States
Fishing is a little more concentrated to specific locations given the water temperature, but the fish are definitely there and it's definitely a good time.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Fishing is a little more concentrated to specific locations given the water temperature, but the fish are definitely there and it's definitely a good time.
Drift Water Charters
Drift Water Charters Frisco, TX
Captain Noel and Prime time fishing is the best one to take you out and if you are at South padre Island in a RV stay at the KOA on the island and Captain Noel will be willing to pick you up and drop you off at the camp ground boat ramp.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Captain Noel and Prime time fishing is the best one to take you out and if you are at South padre Island in a RV stay at the KOA on the island and Captain Noel will be willing to pick you up and drop you off at the camp ground boat ramp.
Prime Time Fishingโ€”Family-Friendly
Prime Time Fishingโ€”Family-Friendly Oak Glen, CA
I believe SPI is better for experienced fishermen but then again, you can begin fishing anywhere...so YES!
Excellent
4.7 / 5
I believe SPI is better for experienced fishermen but then again, you can begin fishing anywhere...so YES!
Snook On A Hook
Snook On A Hook Ardmore, AL
This isn't like fishing the Upper Laguna Madre. The water is extremely shallow and the fishing more difficult. Find a guide who will work for you even on the slowest of days.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
This isn't like fishing the Upper Laguna Madre. The water is extremely shallow and the fishing more difficult. Find a guide who will work for you even on the slowest of days.
Drift Water Charters
Drift Water Charters Salado, TX
Drink plenty of water and for heaven's sake, if you go deep sea fishing and are at all susceptible to seasickness, take a Dramamine or equivalent.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Drink plenty of water and for heaven's sake, if you go deep sea fishing and are at all susceptible to seasickness, take a Dramamine or equivalent.
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Just do it! Itโ€™s easy to get a fishing license in SPI. Itโ€™s so much fun, and heading out at sunrise is beautiful. We also saw dolphins and a sea turtle, which added to the enjoyable experience.
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Just do it! Itโ€™s easy to get a fishing license in SPI. Itโ€™s so much fun, and heading out at sunrise is beautiful. We also saw dolphins and a sea turtle, which added to the enjoyable experience.
SPI Freedom Fishing
SPI Freedom Fishing Rifle, CO
It is very hot out, so be prepared with proper clothing and drink lots of fluids.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
It is very hot out, so be prepared with proper clothing and drink lots of fluids.
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures Houston, Texas

How did anglers rate fishing charters in South Padre Island?

Laguna Madre Madness
Laguna Madre Madness
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(8 reviews)
Jerry was AWESOME!!! Super nice guy and very nice boat and equipment. Been on many guided fishing trips and this was the best we've been on. Caught a ton of fish to! Thank you Jerry!!
Matt  S.
Matt S.
Drift Water Charters
Drift Water Charters
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(346 reviews)
Fishing was "slow" but we still got some amazing and beautiful fish on the boat. Excellent gear and a wonderful ride on a great boat.
Bobby  P.
Bobby P.
AW Fishing
AW Fishing
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(93 reviews)
Cpt Aaron is tops in my book. He is personable, patient, and well experienced. Iโ€™ve been fishing with him several times and will continue to contact him for future trips. Thanks for a good day on the water today Captain Aaron. See you again soon. Mauro A Ramirez, US Government, Retired.
Mauro  R.
Mauro R.
Drift Water Charters
Drift Water Charters
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(346 reviews)
Joaquin was amazing, he honestly did everything he could to make sure our fishing trip was the best. Very active guide and we fished our limits! 1000% recommend to anyone.
Romeo  D.  L.
Romeo D. L.
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(121 reviews)
Captain Emilio was extremely knowledgeable very friendly and professional. We will certainly return for another outing!
Paschal  G.
Paschal G.
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(121 reviews)
We didnโ€™t have the ideal weather but Captain Emilio did a great job of making the best of it! Great trip out on the water and caught some delicious trout!
Abby  L.
Abby L.
Dunkin Guide Systems
Dunkin Guide Systems
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(172 reviews)
It was our first time fishing the gulf and we had a blast he put us on some pretty great fish!
Isaura  L.
Isaura L.
Get'm Hook'd Fishing Charters
Get'm Hook'd Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(128 reviews)
Weโ€™ll took a trip with the family loved the experience. Helpful with my children makes You feel comfortable and and very helpful !
Oscar  L.
Oscar L.
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(121 reviews)
Emilio was spot on. Couldnโ€™t have asked for a better Captain. Very knowledgeable and friendly. ๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿฝ
Carlos De La Garza
Carlos De La Garza
TJ BOOM Fishing
TJ BOOM Fishing
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(47 reviews)
Had a blast fishing with TJ. Great experience overall and would do it again tomorrow if I could.
Matthew  G.
Matthew G.
TJ BOOM Fishing
TJ BOOM Fishing
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(47 reviews)
Great day fishing! Couple bags of speckled trout to take home! TJ is an excellent captain & put us on the fish quick
Brian  H.
Brian H.
Drift Water Charters
Drift Water Charters
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(346 reviews)
The captain was super friendly and knowledgeable, yet at the same time very humble. He was very patient with our 6yo son, even casting it out for him and allowing him to reel it in, so I could enjoy my fishing as well. All of us had a great time. We will definitely be contacting him again next time we are down there.
Mark  S.
Mark S.
Drift Water Charters
Drift Water Charters
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(346 reviews)
I took my teenage daughter for her first bay fishing trip. Juaquin gave her the confidence and advice which enabled her to have a successful sporting adventure. He displays remarkable integrity. Calm manner and friendly demeanor. I highly recommend Juaquin to help guide you to the catch. We surely canโ€™t wait for the next trip!
Ricco  A.
Ricco A.
Drift Water Charters
Drift Water Charters
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(346 reviews)
We had a great time. We not of caught the big fish. But the captain treated us like family. My son who never puts his phone down had a great time. I will be booking this trip agian.
Robert  T.
Robert T.
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(121 reviews)
The windy afternoon was not ideal for fishing, but Emilio put us on fish and made it an enjoyable outing. Highly recommend!
John  B.
John B.
Laguna Madre Madness
Laguna Madre Madness
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(8 reviews)
Captain Jerry was awesome and highly recommend. Not only did he know where to catch plenty of fish but he was fun to be around.
Zachary  S.
Zachary S.
Laguna Madre Madness
Laguna Madre Madness
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(8 reviews)
Had a great experience, Captain Jerry was incredible with my kids from helping them to answering their questions and giving them tips. It was a truly a pleasure and first thing my boys said when we got in our truck โ€ฆ when can we go again with him. Thanks Captain Jerry
David  G.
David G.
Drift Water Charters
Drift Water Charters
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(346 reviews)
We had the best day with Captain Joaquin! He put us on the fish and took such good care of us! We had our 11 yr old son and he made sure it was the best experience for him. We even limited on black drum! Canโ€™t wait to go back out with him! Will be recommending Captain Joaquin to all our friends!
MARY  P.
MARY P.
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Emilioโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(121 reviews)
Great fishing! This is the guy you want. Heโ€™s the guy that finds the fish- and the other boats find him once youโ€™re reeling fish! That good. Trout from the first cast and drum all day. Grilled on the half shell for dinner!
Mike  S.
Mike S.
Get'm Hook'd Fishing Charters
Get'm Hook'd Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in South Padre Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(128 reviews)
Arturo was awesome! His knowledge and expertise helped us get on some fish. My son and I were able to pull in some amazing black drum. I will definitely by coming back and fishing with him again!
Ashton  R.
Ashton R.

Top Fishing Techniques in South Padre Island

Top Targeted Species in South Padre Island

Nearby Fishing Destinations