Premier Inshore Bay Fishing | Rio Hondo | 956 Salty

6-Hour Inshore Fishing Adventure for Beginners

Hey there, future angler! Ready to get your feet wet in the world of inshore fishing? Captain DLS is here to show you the ropes on this laid-back 6-hour trip in the Lower Laguna Madre. Whether you're a total newbie or just looking to brush up on your skills, this is the perfect chance to learn the ins and outs of bay fishing without any pressure. We'll cruise the shallow waters around Rio Hondo, tossing soft plastics and soaking up the Texas sun. By the end of the day, you'll be reeling in Redfish and Speckled Trout like a pro – or at least having a blast trying!

What to Expect on the Water

First things first – this ain't your grandpa's fishing trip. We're talking light tackle, easy-to-use gear, and a whole lot of fun. Captain DLS will get you set up with everything you need, from rods and reels to those killer Wicked Paddle Tails that the fish just can't resist. We'll start off nice and easy, drifting through some of the best spots in the bay. As you get comfortable, we might even hop out for some wade fishing if the conditions are right. Don't worry if you've never done it before – the water's warm, the bottom's sandy, and there's nothing quite like feeling the fish swim right past your legs. Throughout the day, you'll pick up tips on casting, working your lure, and reading the water. And when you hook that first fish? Let's just say the grin on your face will be worth the price of admission alone.

Fishing 101: Bay Style

Alright, let's break down how we'll be fishing. In the Lower Laguna Madre, it's all about finesse and presentation. We'll be using soft plastic lures, mainly those Wicked Paddle Tails I mentioned earlier. These babies mimic small baitfish and drive the Reds and Specks crazy. I'll show you how to rig them up Texas-style to avoid snags and get the most action. We'll be working these lures slowly along the bottom, giving them little twitches and pops to make 'em dance. It's like a little underwater puppet show, and you're the puppeteer. As for gear, we're talking light to medium spinning setups. They're easy to handle and perfect for feeling those subtle bites. And don't sweat it if you're not casting like a pro right away – by the end of the day, you'll be flinging that lure right where you want it. Remember, it's all about having fun and learning at your own pace.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Let's talk targets, folks. The stars of our show today are going to be Redfish and Speckled Trout, with a special guest appearance by the Agujon Needlefish.

Redfish, or Red Drum if you're feeling fancy, are the bulldogs of the bay. These copper-colored brutes can range from little puppies to full-grown bulldogs over 40 inches long. They love to hang out in shallow water, often tailing (that's when their tails stick out of the water as they root around for food). When a Red takes your lure, hold on tight – they'll give you a run for your money with powerful, drag-screaming runs. Best of all, they're here year-round, so there's always a chance to tangle with one of these beauties.

Speckled Trout, or Specs as we call 'em, are the finesse fighters of the bunch. These silver beauties are covered in, you guessed it, speckles, and have a mouth full of sharp teeth. They're known for their subtle bites and acrobatic jumps once hooked. Specs tend to school up, so where there's one, there's often many. They're most active in the cooler months, but we can find them year-round if we know where to look.

Now, the Agujon Needlefish is a bit of a wildcard. These skinny, long-beaked fish look like they're straight out of a Dr. Seuss book. They're not typically a target species, but they're a blast to watch when they're around. These guys like to skitter across the surface and can even leap out of the water to avoid predators. While we probably won't be targeting them specifically, if we see some, it's always a cool addition to the day.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Look, I've been guiding these waters for years, and I still get a kick out of every trip. There's something special about the Lower Laguna Madre that keeps folks coming back for more. Maybe it's the way the sun paints the sky at dawn, turning the water into a mirror of orange and pink. Or maybe it's the thrill of watching a Redfish tail in gin-clear water that's only knee-deep. For some, it's the peace and quiet – out here, it's just you, the fish, and the occasional pelican dive-bombing for its breakfast. And let's not forget the fishing itself. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time holding a rod, that moment when a fish slams your lure and the fight is on? That's pure magic, folks. And the best part? Every trip is different. The tides change, the fish move, and there's always something new to learn. That's why I love taking beginners out – watching someone catch their first Speck or Red, seeing that spark in their eyes... it never gets old.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, anglers-in-training, let's wrap this up. If you're itching to get out on the water and see what all the fuss is about, now's your chance. This 6-hour trip is the perfect intro to the world of inshore fishing. You'll learn the basics, catch some fish (fingers crossed!), and have a darn good time doing it. Captain DLS will take care of everything – gear, bait, even cleaning your catch if you want to take some home for dinner. All you need to bring is a good attitude, some sunscreen, and maybe a snack or two. So what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, the weather's fine, and there's a spot on the boat with your name on it. Give us a call, shoot us an email, or heck, send a carrier pigeon if you have to. Let's get you out on the water and start your fishing adventure. Trust me, once you feel that first tug on the line, you'll be hooked for life. See you on the bay!