Expert Guided Shore Fishing in Matagorda, TX

Published Date: November 8, 2025
Fishing

Texas
$750 - $1,500 price range

Summary

Get ready for a full day of land-based fishing action in Matagorda with Captain Anthony Scott. We'll hit prime spots along the shoreline, targeting Gulf Coast favorites like Blacktip Shark, Jack Crevalle, Redfish, and Black Drum. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, this trip's got you covered. We provide all the gear and know-how you need for a solid day of fishing. The beach setup means easy access and steady casting without rocking boats. You'll learn local techniques, get insider tips, and have a shot at some impressive catches. It's a comfortable way to experience the thrill of Gulf Coast fishing. With room for up to 6 guests, it's perfect for small groups or families. Remember, deposits are non-refundable, so lock in your date and get ready for some serious shore fishing fun in Matagorda Bay.

Expert Guided Shore Fishing in Matagorda, TX

Shoreline Sharks and Strikes

Family-Friendly Fishing Trips in Matagorda

Matagorda Shark Fishing

One fisherman catches a 61-inch fish in Corpus Christi

Captain Anthony with a Nice record Shark!

Fishing Tower

Land-Based Shark Fishing in Matagorda Bay

Get ready for a full day of adrenaline-pumping action on the shores of Matagorda, Texas. This ain't your average fishing trip – we're talking serious shark and gamefish action right from the beach. Captain Anthony Scott knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's ready to put you on some of the Gulf Coast's most exciting catches. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, this trip is all about big fish, good times, and making memories that'll have you coming back for more.

What's the Deal with Shore Fishing?

Forget about seasickness or cramped boat decks. This land-based adventure gives you the best of both worlds – the thrill of targeting offshore species without ever leaving dry land. We'll set up shop on prime stretches of Matagorda's coastline, where the big boys come in close to feed. You'll be casting into the surf, feeling the sand between your toes, and waiting for that heart-stopping moment when a shark decides to test your tackle. It's comfortable, accessible, and perfect for groups who want to fish together without being confined to a boat.

Gearing Up for the Big Ones

We're not messing around when it comes to equipment. Captain Anthony's got you covered with heavy-duty surf rods, big reels spooled with hundreds of yards of line, and the kind of terminal tackle that can handle anything from bull reds to big sharks. We'll be using a mix of techniques – from long-distance casting to setting baits out with kayaks. You'll learn how to read the surf, spot the best structure, and present baits that'll get the attention of those toothy predators lurking just beyond the breakers. And don't worry if you're new to this – the Captain's always ready to show you the ropes and help you land that fish of a lifetime.

Top Catches This Season

Matagorda's waters are teeming with game fish, and we've got our sights set on some real bruisers. Blacktip sharks are often the stars of the show – these acrobatic fighters will test your stamina with blistering runs and aerial displays. But that's just the beginning. Jack crevalle, also known as "reef donkeys," will make you question if you've hooked a submarine. Redfish and black drum prowl the surf, offering steady action and some of the best eating fish around. And for those looking for the ultimate challenge, we occasionally tangle with tiger sharks that'll make your arms feel like jelly. Every trip's different, but one thing's for sure – you're in for some serious pull.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about Matagorda that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the way the sun sets over the Gulf, painting the sky in colors you didn't even know existed. Or perhaps it's the raw power you feel when a big shark takes your bait and starts peeling line off your reel like it's nothing. But I reckon it's more than that. It's the stories you'll tell, the friends you'll make, and the sense of accomplishment you get from battling these ocean predators on their own turf. Captain Anthony's not just here to put you on fish – he's here to share his passion for this slice of coastal paradise and help you create memories that'll last a lifetime.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Blacktip Shark: These speedsters of the shark world are a blast to catch. Averaging 4-5 feet long, blacktips are known for their explosive strikes and acrobatic jumps. They're most active in the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. When you hook one, be ready for a fight – these guys don't give up easy and will often make several runs before you can bring them to shore.

Crevalle Jack: Pound for pound, jacks are some of the hardest fighting fish in the Gulf. These bruisers can top 30 pounds and will test your gear and your biceps. They show up in big schools, often chasing bait right up to the beach. When the jacks are in, it's non-stop action that'll leave you sore but smiling.

Redfish: A Texas favorite, redfish are the perfect blend of sport and table fare. In the surf, we often encounter oversized "bull reds" that can push 40 inches or more. They've got a distinctive spot on their tail and pull like a freight train. Redfish are around all year, but the fall run is something special when big schools migrate along the coast.

Tiger Shark: The apex predator of our nearshore waters, tiger sharks are the trophy that serious land-based shark anglers dream about. These beasts can grow over 10 feet long and put up epic battles that can last hours. Catching a tiger from the beach is a feat few can claim, but when conditions are right, Matagorda offers that chance.

Black Drum: Often overlooked but never underappreciated, black drum are the workhorses of Texas surf fishing. These cousins of the redfish can grow to massive sizes, with some "big uglies" topping 50 pounds. They're most active in the cooler months and offer steady action when other species might be slow.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, I could go on all day about the fishing here in Matagorda, but nothing beats experiencing it for yourself. Captain Anthony's got the know-how, the gear, and the spots to put you on fish that'll make your arms ache and your camera roll full. Whether you're looking to cross "land-based shark fishing" off your bucket list or just want a day of non-stop action with friends and family, this is the trip for you. Spaces fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Get in touch, ask any questions you've got, and let's start planning your Matagorda fishing adventure. The big ones are out there waiting – are you ready to reel 'em in?

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black drum are the gentle giants of our bays. They range from 5 to 30 pounds, with some old-timers hitting 90. Look for them around oyster reefs and muddy bottoms, often in surprisingly shallow water. Spring's the prime time when they school up to spawn. Anglers love drum for their strong, steady fights and good eating - though stick to the smaller ones for the table. They make a distinctive croaking sound, which is pretty cool to hear. To catch 'em, use fresh crab or shrimp and fish it right on the bottom. Here's a tip: if you see their tails waving above the surface, they're rooting for food. Cast nearby, and you're in for some fun. Just remember, one over 30 inches per day is the limit.

Blacktip Shark

Blacktips are one of our most common sharks here, usually 4-5 feet long but can reach 9 feet. They're fast, acrobatic, and known for those black-tipped fins. You'll find them cruising the surf and near shore, especially in summer when they follow bait schools. Blacktips put up an incredible fight, often leaping clear out of the water. That's why shark enthusiasts love targeting them. We typically fish with fresh cut bait like mullet or jack crevalle. Here's a local tip: chum the water to get them fired up, then cast your bait just beyond the chum slick. When you hook one, be ready for some serious runs. Remember, we practice catch and release with these beauties to keep the population healthy.

Crevalle Jack

Crevalle jacks are the bulldogs of our coastal waters. These powerful fish average 3-5 pounds but can top 60. Look for them busting bait on the surface - you can't miss that golden flash. They hang around structure like jetties and oil rigs but also roam open water. Jacks are here year-round but really fire up in summer. Anglers love 'em for their brutal fights - pound for pound, they're some of the strongest fish out there. To catch one, keep an eye out for birds diving. That usually means jacks are pushing bait to the surface. Throw a topwater lure or silver spoon into the frenzy and hold on tight. Pro tip: use heavier tackle than you think you need. These guys will test your gear and your arms!

Redfish

Redfish are a local favorite here in Matagorda. These copper-colored beauties usually run 20-30 inches, with some big bulls pushing 40+. You'll find them tailing in shallow flats, especially around oyster reefs and grass beds. They love to crush crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but we catch 'em year-round. Anglers love redfish for their hard fights and excellent table fare. When sight-casting, look for their distinctive tail waving above the surface as they root for food. My go-to trick is to use a gold spoon - the flash really gets their attention. Just remember, anything over 28 inches has to go back. Nothing beats the thrill of hooking into a big red in skinny water!

Tiger Shark

Tiger sharks are the giants of our Gulf waters, reaching up to 14 feet and 1,400 pounds. They're easy to spot with those distinctive dark stripes. You'll find them cruising offshore, but they'll come into shallower waters to hunt. Summer's the best time to target them. Anglers love the challenge and thrill of hooking into one of these apex predators. They're known for eating just about anything, which makes for some interesting catches. We use heavy tackle and big baits like whole fish or large chunks. Here's a local secret: try fishing at night when tigers are most active. Just remember, these are catch-and-release only - it's all about the experience and conservation with these magnificent creatures.