Port Mansfield Redfish Trout | 956 Salty Waders

Half Day Redfish And Trout Fishing Trip In Texas

If you've been itching to get your line wet in some of the Gulf Coast's most productive waters, this 6-hour adventure with Captain DLS and 956 Salty Waders is exactly what you're looking for. Starting bright and early at 6:30 a.m., you'll spend your morning targeting two of the most sought-after inshore species in the Lower Laguna Madre system around Arroyo City and Port Mansfield. This isn't just another fishing trip – it's a chance to work prime redfish and speckled trout habitat with a veteran captain who knows these waters like the back of his hand. You'll be back at the dock by 12:30 p.m., giving you plenty of time to clean your catch and still have the rest of your day free.

What to Expect on the Water

Captain DLS keeps things straightforward but effective on this top-rated Lower Laguna Madre experience. You'll be working the shallow flats and grass beds that make this area famous, using a combination of drifting and wade fishing techniques depending on conditions and fish activity. The boat holds up to two anglers, so you're not dealing with crowds – just quality fishing time in some of Texas' best inshore waters. The captain provides all your tackle and gear, plus complimentary drinks to keep you hydrated under the South Texas sun. When you're done fishing, your catch gets cleaned right there, so you can head home with fillets ready for the dinner table. This world-class fishery has been producing consistent results for years, and Captain DLS knows exactly where to put you on the fish.

Techniques & Tactics

The bread and butter of this trip revolves around Wicked Paddle Tail soft plastics – a proven technique that consistently produces in these waters. You'll be working these lures through the grass flats, around structure, and along the shorelines where redfish and trout like to hang out. Wade fishing is a big part of the experience here, letting you get into water that's too shallow for the boat and putting you right in the strike zone. When conditions call for it, you'll drift fish from the boat, covering more water and working different depths. Captain DLS reads the tides, wind, and water conditions to determine the best approach for each spot. The gear is all provided – quality rods, reels, and tackle that can handle the fight these fish put up. Whether you're a seasoned angler or picking up a rod for the first time, the captain adjusts his approach to match your skill level and make sure you're successful.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish are the crown jewel of Lower Laguna Madre, and for good reason. These copper-colored fighters typically run 20 to 30 inches in these waters, with some real bruisers pushing into the upper slot and beyond. They're most active during the cooler parts of the day, which is why that early start time works so well. Redfish love the shallow grass flats and will absolutely hammer a well-presented paddle tail. What makes them special is their fight – they'll make long, powerful runs and use their broad sides to put up a serious battle. The best part about reds in this system is their year-round availability, though fall and winter tend to produce the most consistent action as they school up in the shallows.

Speckled trout are the other half of the inshore slam you're after, and the Lower Laguna Madre system produces some of the finest specks on the Texas coast. These fish average 15 to 20 inches, with trophy potential always lurking in the deeper grass beds and channel edges. Trout are more finicky than reds, but that's what makes them such a rewarding target. They're most active during low-light periods and when the water temperature is right. Spring and fall are prime time for specks, but skilled guides like Captain DLS know how to find them year-round. When you hook into a good trout, you'll understand why they're a customer favorite – they jump, make blistering runs, and test your skills every step of the way.

Time to Book Your Spot

This half-day trip with 956 Salty Waders gives you everything you need for a successful day on the water without eating up your entire schedule. Captain DLS brings years of experience and local knowledge to every trip, and his USCG certification means you're in safe, professional hands. The Lower Laguna Madre around Arroyo City and Port Mansfield consistently ranks as some of the best inshore fishing in Texas, and this renowned guide service has built its reputation on putting clients on fish. With all gear provided, catch cleaning included, and a boat that's perfectly suited for these waters, you're looking at a seamless fishing experience from start to finish. Don't wait – these productive waters and quality guide services book up fast, especially during peak seasons.