Captain
Joaquin Pena

Member since February 2021 South Padre Island, United States
Background
Fishing has peaked Captain Joaquin's interest from an early age. He grew up fishing with family (uncles and cousins) and then he started sharing his knowledge with friends. Fishing became a passion for him and he realized that he even found it stress relieving and entertaining even when he was out in the waters by himself. Not only has fishing become a passion and hobby for him, but it has also taught him to be patient, persistent, and have an analytical mindset. The skills Captain Joaquin has acquired overtime have led him to become a seasoned fisherman and great captain. His hobby and favorite sport is almost an everyday activity for him and he wishes to share his knowledge with both inexperienced and experienced fishers. From personal fishing to group fishing and even family fishing trips, he will take you to the hottest spots in search of Red, Trout, Black Drum, or anything else you might be looking for that can be found near South Padre Island.
Techniques
Captain Joaquin likes drift fishing with both lures and baits but he tends to lean on using live baits with customers because it is easier to catch more fish with live bait. He also enjoys wade fishing, although it doesn't happen as often because he considers himself blessed to have his own boat :) The captain believes any type of fishing is good fishing. Stress relieving, camaraderie, being outdoors, and enjoying nature clearing your mind and focusing on casting and luring a great catch! Any day out in the waters with Captain Joaquin Pena is a great day. The philosophy he has acquired over the years is something he hopes he's able to pass down to his children and others who are interested in learning.

Hey, I'm Captain Joaquin Pena

South Padre Island, United States
Background
Fishing has peaked Captain Joaquin's interest from an early age. He grew up fishing with family (uncles and cousins) and then he started sharing his knowledge with friends. Fishing became a passion for him and he realized that he even found it stress relieving and entertaining even when he was out in the waters by himself. Not only has fishing become a passion and hobby for him, but it has also taught him to be patient, persistent, and have an analytical mindset. The skills Captain Joaquin has acquired overtime have led him to become a seasoned fisherman and great captain. His hobby and favorite sport is almost an everyday activity for him and he wishes to share his knowledge with both inexperienced and experienced fishers. From personal fishing to group fishing and even family fishing trips, he will take you to the hottest spots in search of Red, Trout, Black Drum, or anything else you might be looking for that can be found near South Padre Island.
Techniques
Captain Joaquin likes drift fishing with both lures and baits but he tends to lean on using live baits with customers because it is easier to catch more fish with live bait. He also enjoys wade fishing, although it doesn't happen as often because he considers himself blessed to have his own boat :) The captain believes any type of fishing is good fishing. Stress relieving, camaraderie, being outdoors, and enjoying nature clearing your mind and focusing on casting and luring a great catch! Any day out in the waters with Captain Joaquin Pena is a great day. The philosophy he has acquired over the years is something he hopes he's able to pass down to his children and others who are interested in learning.
Anglers Choice
Verified

My Charter Listing

Excellent
5.0 / 5
(492 reviews)
Angler's choice
South Padre Island
 Instant Confirmation
Trips from US $500

Customer reviews

Rating summary
Excellent
5.0 / 5
out of 5 stars from 492 reviews
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Photos & videos by reviewers (468)
10\/10 Fishing Experience
Repeat Customers
Repeat Customers
+465
Angler rating
488
3
0
0
1
Anglers claimed
Good experience
99%
Friendly captain
100%
Recommend this charter
100%
Appropriate for children
98%
Satisfied with the boat
99%
Caught fish
96%
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5 of 492 reviews
Billie S.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Book the trip now!

VERIFIED   5 Hour Trip (AM) on March 26, 2025
Joaquin is the best guide out there. Donโ€™t hesitate, book your trip now! Heโ€™s the first one on the fish. We set up early...
Billie S. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Billie S. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Garry C.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Joaquin will put you on the fish!!!

VERIFIED   NEW  8 Hour Trip on March 1, 2026
Joaquin will put you on the fish!!! great trip and we beought back a bug bag of fresh fish!!
Garry C. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Garry C. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Amber M.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Repeat Customers

VERIFIED   5 Hour Trip (PM) on January 3, 2026
We have fished with Captain Pena 4 times now in the last 4 years, all have been great.ย  We have been brought our 11 year old...
Amber M. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Amber M. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Brian J.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Great Trip as Always

VERIFIED   5 Hour Trip (AM) on November 3, 2025
This was my second trip with Drift Water Charters.ย  Captain Joquian put us on fish early and often. His knowledge of the area...
Brian J. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Brian J. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Philip P.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Fishing with Joaquin

VERIFIED   NEW  5 Hour Trip (AM) on March 3, 2026
Philip P. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Philip P. recommends Drift Water Charters
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