Top-Rated Matagorda Tournament Fishing Trips

Tournament-Ready Fishing in Matagorda Bay

Get your game face on for a full day of competitive angling with Fowl Hooked Outfitters. We're talking sunrise starts, prime fishing spots, and the expert guidance you need to land those tournament-winning catches. Whether you're after a record redfish or a trophy trout, Captain Kevin Cantu knows exactly where to find 'em in Matagorda's rich coastal waters.

What to Expect on the Water

Rise and shine, anglers! We'll meet you at the dock at 5:45 a.m. sharp, ready to hit Matagorda Bay before the sun peeks over the horizon. This full-day trip gives you maximum time to target quality fish and rack up those tournament points. Captain Kevin's got his finger on the pulse of seasonal patterns, so we'll adjust our strategy to where the fish are biting. No need to lug your gear - we've got top-notch rods, reels, and tackle all set for you. And if you decide to keep your catch, we'll clean 'em up for you, no charge. This trip's perfect for family fishing in Matagorda TX too, so bring the whole crew, from seasoned anglers to first-timers.

Techniques for Tournament Success

In these productive inshore waters, we'll mix it up depending on what's working best. Some days, we might be wading the flats, feeling the soft bottom beneath our feet as we cast to tailing reds. Other times, we'll drift over grass beds, working soft plastics for those big speckled trout. When the drum are running, we might anchor up and fish the deeper channels with crab or shrimp. Captain Kevin's always got a few tricks up his sleeve, like sight-casting to cruising fish or working topwater lures at first light. We'll tailor our approach to give you the best shot at filling your tournament card with quality catches.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Southern Flounder: These flat masters are the ninjas of Matagorda Bay. They're masters of camouflage, blending in with the sandy bottom. We target flounder year-round, but the fall run is where it's at. That's when these flatfish stack up in the channels, getting ready to head offshore. Flounder might not put up the wildest fight, but landing a big one takes skill - and they're worth some serious points in most tournaments.

Black Drum: The bulldogs of the bay, black drum are hard-fighters that can really put your gear to the test. We find 'em in deeper channels and around structure, often using their barbels to root out crabs and shrimp from the bottom. Spring is prime time for big spawning drum, but you can catch 'em year-round. They're not the prettiest fish in the sea, but drum over 30 inches can earn you a hefty bonus in many tournaments.

Speckled Trout: Ask any Matagorda angler about their favorite catch, and there's a good chance they'll say speckled trout. These spotted beauties are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic jumps. We target specks over grass flats, around oyster reefs, and in the surf. Spring and fall are excellent, but a skilled angler can find trout all year. In tournaments, a limit of big specks can often make the difference between placing and winning.

Redfish: The crown jewel of Texas inshore fishing, redfish (or red drum) are what bring many anglers to Matagorda. These copper-colored fighters are famous for their powerful runs and their distinctive spot near the tail. We find reds tailing on the flats, cruising the shorelines, or schooling up in the bays. Fall is spectacular for bull reds, but we catch quality fish year-round. In tournaments, a slot-sized red is often worth its weight in gold.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Matagorda's not just another fishing spot - it's a slice of angler's paradise. The diversity here is unreal. One minute you're sight-casting to tailing reds in gin-clear water, the next you're battling a bull drum in a deep channel. And it's not just about the fishing. There's something special about watching the sun rise over the bay, pelicans diving for their breakfast while you're setting up your first cast. With Fowl Hooked Outfitters, you're not just getting a guide - you're getting a local expert who lives and breathes these waters. Captain Kevin's knowledge can be the edge you need to top the leaderboard.

Top Catches This Season

Every season brings its own highlights, but this year's been one for the books. We've seen some monster trout coming out of the grass flats - several over 28 inches that had the drag screaming. The redfish action's been on fire too, with schools of upper-slot reds blitzing bait on the surface. One group last month limited out on reds before 9 a.m., then went on to boat a 30-inch speck that took top honors in their club tournament. And let's not forget the black drum - we've been finding some real bruisers in the 40-pound range that'll test your arms and your gear.

Time to Book Your Spot

Listen, if you're serious about your tournament game, or just want to experience some of the best inshore fishing Texas has to offer, you need to get out here with Fowl Hooked Outfitters. We're talking full days on the water, access to prime spots, and the kind of local knowledge that can turn a good day into a great one. Captain Kevin's been putting clients on fish for years, and he knows how to adapt to changing conditions to keep those rods bending.

Don't forget - all you need to bring is your fishing license, some snacks, and drinks. We've got the rest covered, from top-quality gear to fish cleaning at the end of the day. Whether you're gunning for tournament glory or just want to make some unforgettable family memories, this trip's got you covered.

Spots fill up fast, especially during prime seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Give us a call or hit that 'Book Now' button. We'll see you on the water, ready to chase down some Matagorda monsters!