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Top-Rated Port Mansfield Inshore Fishing Charters
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- South Padre Island
- $450 - $675 price range
Summary
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Inshore Action Shots
Bold catch! Hard-fighting red drum in hand.
Heavy stringer! Red drum stacked up.
Diverse catch! Red drum, trout, and sheepshead.
Strong pair! Red drum and speckled trout.
Big day with redfish and speckled trout lined up.
Big speckled trout under bluebird skies.
Coastal catch on a clear day.
Big redfish haul and laid-back vibes.
Big day with redfish and speckled trout lined up.
Perfect day to chase redfish and trout.
Bold catch! Hard-fighting red drum in hand.
Heavy stringer! Red drum stacked up.
Diverse catch! Red drum, trout, and sheepshead.
Strong pair! Red drum and speckled trout.
Big day with redfish and speckled trout lined up.
Big speckled trout under bluebird skies.
Coastal catch on a clear day.
Big redfish haul and laid-back vibes.
Big day with redfish and speckled trout lined up.
Perfect day to chase redfish and trout.
Bold catch! Hard-fighting red drum in hand.
Heavy stringer! Red drum stacked up.
Diverse catch! Red drum, trout, and sheepshead.
Strong pair! Red drum and speckled trout.
Port Mansfield: Inshore Fishing Paradise
Ready to hit the flats and channels of Port Mansfield for some world-class inshore action? Captain Ruben Riojas of Slick Fin Charters has you covered with this 8-hour fishing adventure. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, you're in for a treat as we target some of the Gulf Coast's most popular gamefish. Let's dive into what makes this trip a must-do for anyone looking to experience the best of Texas inshore fishing.
What to Expect on the Water
When you step aboard Captain Ruben's boat, you're not just going fishing – you're getting a front-row seat to some of the best inshore action Port Mansfield has to offer. This full-day trip is all about putting you on fish and making sure you have a blast doing it. We'll be chasing after redfish, black drum, flounder, and spotted sea trout in the rich waters of the Laguna Madre and surrounding bays. Captain Ruben knows these waters like the back of his hand, which means you'll be hitting productive spots all day long. The pace is relaxed but purposeful – we're here to catch fish, but also to enjoy the stunning coastal scenery and maybe even spot some local wildlife along the way.
Techniques and Gear
On this trip, we'll be using a mix of techniques to target our inshore species. Depending on the conditions and what's biting, we might be sight-casting to tailing reds in the shallows, working soft plastics along grass lines for trout, or soaking bait for big black drum. Captain Ruben provides all the gear you'll need, from rods and reels to bait and tackle. He's got top-notch equipment that's well-maintained and suited for the fishing we'll be doing. If you're new to inshore fishing or want to brush up on your skills, don't worry – Captain Ruben is a patient teacher and will show you the ropes. All you need to bring is your Texas fishing license, some snacks, and a good attitude.
Top Catches This Season
Port Mansfield is known for consistent action year-round, but each season brings its own highlights. In the warmer months, redfish and speckled trout are often the stars of the show, with many anglers landing their personal best. As temperatures cool, the big bull reds move in, offering the chance at some truly trophy-sized catches. Black drum are reliable targets throughout the year, with some real bruisers showing up in the cooler months. And let's not forget about the elusive flounder – these tasty flatfish are a prized catch, especially during their fall run. No matter when you book, Captain Ruben will put you on the fish that are biting best.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Redfish: These copper-colored beauties are a favorite among inshore anglers for good reason. Known for their powerful runs and distinctive spot on the tail, redfish in Port Mansfield can range from slot-sized fish perfect for the dinner table to oversized bulls that'll test your tackle and your stamina. They love to cruise the shallows, often revealing their location with their signature tail waving above the water. The thrill of sight-casting to a tailing red is hard to beat.
Black Drum: Often overshadowed by their redfish cousins, black drum are a blast to catch and can grow to impressive sizes. In Port Mansfield, you can expect to tangle with fish ranging from a few pounds to potential record-breakers over 30 pounds. These bottom-feeders have a soft spot for crabs and shrimp, making them relatively easy to target. When hooked, they put up a stubborn fight that'll have you grinning from ear to ear.
Summer Flounder: Also known as fluke, these flatfish are masters of camouflage and a delicious target for anglers. In Port Mansfield, we typically catch Southern flounder, which can grow up to several pounds. They're ambush predators, often burying themselves in the sand and waiting for prey to pass by. Catching a flounder requires finesse and patience, but the reward is a fish that's both fun to catch and excellent on the plate.
Spotted Sea Trout: Locally known as speckled trout, these fish are a staple of inshore fishing in Port Mansfield. They're known for their delicate mouth and the dark spots that cover their silvery bodies. Sea trout can be found in a variety of habitats, from grass flats to deeper channels. They're aggressive feeders and will readily strike lures, making them a favorite for anglers who enjoy active fishing techniques. The "gator" trout – the big ones over 25 inches – are the stuff of local legend.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Folks who fish with Captain Ruben tend to become repeat customers, and it's easy to see why. First off, the fishing in Port Mansfield is just plain good. The area's relatively remote location means less pressure on the fish, which translates to better catches for you. But it's not just about the fish – it's about the experience. Captain Ruben runs a tight ship but keeps things fun and relaxed. He's got a knack for reading the water and putting clients on fish, even when conditions are tough. Plus, he's always happy to share his knowledge, whether you're looking to improve your casting technique or learn more about the local ecosystem. And let's not forget the scenery – the pristine waters and abundant wildlife of the Laguna Madre make for a beautiful day on the water, fish or no fish.
Time to Book Your Spot
So there you have it – a full day of inshore fishing in one of Texas' best-kept secrets. Whether you're looking to bend a rod, learn new techniques, or just enjoy a day on the water, Captain Ruben's 8-hour trip with Slick Fin Charters is hard to beat. With all gear provided and the flexibility of free cancellation up to 3 days before your trip, it's a low-risk, high-reward proposition. Just remember to grab your Texas fishing license, and you're good to go. Don't miss out on this chance to experience some of the best inshore fishing Port Mansfield has to offer. The fish are waiting – are you ready to catch 'em?
Learn more about the species
Black Drum
Redfish are a local favorite here in Port Mansfield. These copper-colored beauties typically run 20-30 inches, with some bulls pushing 40+ inches. You'll find them tailing in shallow flats and around oyster reefs, often in just a foot or two of water. Fall and winter are prime seasons when big schools move into the bays. Redfish put up an incredible fight, with strong runs that'll test your drag. Their mild, sweet flavor makes them excellent table fare too. For the best shot at landing one, try sight-casting with a gold spoon or topwater plug early in the morning. When you see that distinctive spot near the tail, you know you're in for some fun. Just remember to twitch your lure erratically - redfish can't resist an easy meal.
Redfish
Sea Trout
Spotted seatrout, or specks, are a staple in Port Mansfield. These silvery fish usually run 14-20 inches, but gator trout over 25 inches aren't uncommon. You'll find them hanging around grass flats, oyster bars, and channel edges, often in 3-6 feet of water. Spring and fall are peak seasons when water temperatures are mild. Trout are known for their soft mouths, so a gentle hookset is key. They're popular for their aggressive strikes and tasty, flaky meat. For consistent action, try drifting live shrimp under a popping cork over grass beds. My local tip: focus on areas with good tidal flow, especially around full and new moons. When you find one trout, there's usually more nearby. It's hard to beat the excitement of a topwater trout bite at dawn.
Summer Flounder
Summer flounder, or fluke, are masters of camouflage in our local waters. These flatfish average 15-20 inches but can reach 26 pounds. You'll find them on sandy or muddy bottoms, often near structures like reefs or wrecks. September to November is prime time, when they're fattening up before winter. Flounder fishing is all about patience and precision - these ambush predators won't chase your bait far. They're a blast to catch, with a unique sideways fight, and make for some of the best eating around. My go-to trick is using a bucktail jig tipped with a live minnow, bounced slowly along the bottom. When you feel that telltale thump, give it a second before setting the hook. Land one of these "doormats" and you'll be hooked for life.
About the Slick Fin Charters
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 20
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 150
