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
(485 reviews)
Angler's choice
South Padre Island
 Last booking: 6 days ago
 Instant Confirmation
Trips from US $400

Customer reviews

Rating summary
Excellent
5.0 / 5
out of 5 stars from 485 reviews
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Photos & videos by reviewers (465)
fantastic trip on a tough day
Our First Charter Wont be our last!
Our First Charter Wont be our last!
+462
Angler rating
481
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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Showing:
5 of 485 reviews
Brooke R.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Amazing Day on the Water!!

VERIFIED   5 Hour Trip (AM) on July 23, 2025
We couldnโ€™t have asked for a better experience.ย  Captain Pena was professional, helpful, and made sure we had a great time!ย ...
Brooke R. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Brooke R. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Jon G.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Another great trip with Captain Joaquin

VERIFIED   5 Hour Trip (AM) on May 1, 2025
Went out with a group of 4 and we caught a few good size reds. Captain Joaquin worked his tail off for those fish though. And...
Jon G. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Jon G. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Jt C.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Fantastic trip on a tough day

VERIFIED   5 Hour Trip (AM) on November 25, 2025
No wind at all, Captain Joaquin was able to find fish quick and keep us on them all trip. Will book again soon!
Jt C. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Jt C. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Edward W.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Awesome time! Will be back!

VERIFIED   5 Hour Trip (AM) on October 18, 2025
Joaquin is the real deal. Super nice guy and great guide. Put my son on his first redfish and it was a beauty!
Edward W. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Edward W. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Kami P.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Great experience

VERIFIED   5 Hour Trip (AM) on August 14, 2025
We had a great experience. Captain Pena was very patient and taught us so many things and we have been fishing for years.
Kami P. recommends Drift Water Charters
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Kami P. recommends Drift Water Charters
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