Buckle up, folks—this ain't your average day on the water. Captain David's full-day advanced fishing trip out of Port O'Connor is tailor-made for anglers who've paid their dues and are ready to tangle with some serious fish. We're talking bull reds that'll make your arms ache, sheepshead that'll test your patience, and yes, even bull sharks that'll have you questioning your life choices (in the best way possible). This is Texas fishing at its finest, where the coastal waters are teeming with trophy potential and every cast could be the one.
Here's the scoop: You and up to three of your fishing buddies will hop aboard the Bay Bandit for a full day of non-stop action. We're hitting the sweet spots around Port O'Connor, one of the most productive fisheries on the Texas coast. Captain David's got all the gear you need, so just show up ready to work. Fair warning—this trip ain't for the faint of heart or the easily seasick. We're going after the big boys, which means you better bring your A-game and maybe a few energy drinks. Oh, and don't forget that state fishing license—it's not just a suggestion, it's the law.
Listen up, because this is where the rubber meets the road—or in our case, where the line meets the water. We're not just chunking bait and hoping for the best. Depending on what we're after, we might be sight-casting to tailing reds in the shallows, using light tackle for those crafty sheepshead around structure, or setting up for the heart-pounding thrill of shark fishing in deeper waters. You'll be using a mix of artificial lures and live bait (which we'll discuss beforehand), and Captain David will school you on the finer points of each technique. The Bay Bandit is rigged for success, with top-notch electronics to find the fish and a stable platform for casting. Just remember, half the battle is reading the water and knowing where these fish like to hang out—and that's where the captain's local knowledge comes into play.
Alright, let's break down the hit list for this trip. We're not messing around with dinks here—these are the heavyweights of Port O'Connor's inshore waters.
Redfish: The crown jewel of Texas inshore fishing. We're talking about bull reds that can top 40 inches and put up a fight that'll have you grinning for days. These bruisers love to cruise the flats and channels, often revealing themselves with a telltale tail above the water. Fall is prime time for the big boys, but they're around all year. There's nothing quite like the initial run of a big red—it's like hooking onto a freight train.
Black Drum: Don't let their ugly mugs fool you—these cousins of the redfish can grow to monster sizes and pull like a mule. We often find them hanging around the same areas as reds, but they've got a soft spot for crustaceans. Springtime is when they really show up in force, sometimes in schools that'll have your rod bending non-stop. Landing a big black drum is like wrestling a big, slimy bag of concrete—in the best way possible.
Sheepshead: Ah, the convict fish. With their distinctive black and white stripes and teeth that look like they belong in a horror movie, sheepshead are as unique as they come. These structure-loving fish are notorious bait stealers and can be maddeningly difficult to hook. But when you do? You're in for some of the best eating fish in the Gulf. Winter and early spring are prime time for sheepshead, and they love hanging around jetties and pilings.
Bull Shark: Now we're talking about putting some hair on your chest. Bull sharks in the bay aren't an everyday occurrence, but when we find them, hold onto your hats. These apex predators can push 8 feet or more and will test every bit of your fishing skills and gear. We typically target them in the warmer months, using heavy tackle and big baits. Landing a bull shark is an experience you'll be talking about for years to come—just make sure you've got some strength left in those arms for the photos.
Look, I've been guiding these waters for years, and I still get a kick out of watching seasoned anglers' faces light up when that drag starts screaming. Port O'Connor is the real deal—a world-class fishery right here in Texas. You've got the potential for multiple species, the chance at true trophy fish, and the kind of variety that keeps you on your toes all day long. Plus, let's be honest, there's something special about being out on these waters, watching the sun rise over the bay, knowing that any cast could be the one that lands you a fish of a lifetime. It's addictive in the best way possible.
Alright, let's cut to the chase. If you're still reading this, you know you want to get out there and tangle with some of Port O'Connor's finest. This full-day advanced trip with Captain David is your ticket to the big leagues of Texas inshore fishing. We're talking about the kind of day that separates the "yeah, I fish sometimes" crowd from the die-hards. Remember, we're limited to 4 anglers max, so round up your crew and get your spot locked in. The Bay Bandit is ready, the fish are waiting, and Captain David's itching to put you on some monsters. Don't sit on the sidelines watching Instagram videos of other folks' catches—get out here and make your own fishing stories. Book now, and let's turn those fishing dreams into bragging rights.
Black Drum are hefty coastal fish, often weighing 5-30 pounds but can hit 90. They're part of the croaker family, known for the drumming sounds they make. You'll find them in brackish waters and estuaries, hanging around oyster beds and muddy flats. Spring's the prime time to target them, as they school up for spawning. Anglers love Black Drum for their strong fight and good eating, though stick to the smaller ones under 15 pounds for the best taste. When fishing for them, remember they're bottom feeders. Use live bait like crab or clams, or try a slow-moving bucktail jig. Here's a local tip: if you're not getting bites, try adjusting your weight to keep that bait right on the bottom where these guys feed.
Bull Sharks are the bruisers of our coastal waters, typically running 8-12 feet and 200-300 pounds. These aggressive predators are unique – they can handle both salt and freshwater, so you might spot them in rivers or even lakes. Summer's your best bet for hooking one around here. They cruise shallow, warm waters and are often found near river mouths. Anglers target them for the pure adrenaline rush – these sharks put up a serious fight. We practice catch and release to keep populations healthy. When fishing for Bulls, use heavy tackle and wire leaders. Here's a pro tip: try using fresh-cut mullet or stingray as bait. And always be ready for a long, hard-fought battle when you hook into one of these powerful fish.
Redfish, or Red Drum, are the rockstars of Texas flats fishing. They're easy to spot with that signature black dot near the tail. Most inshore reds run 20-30 inches, but they can grow much bigger offshore. You'll find them in super shallow water, sometimes with their backs out of the water, cruising flats, bays, and around oyster reefs. Fall's prime time when they school up, but you can catch them year-round. Anglers love 'em for their hard fights and excellent table fare. They'll hit just about anything when they're feeding – topwater lures can make for some explosive action. Here's a local trick: look for their tails sticking up out of the water as they root around for food. Cast your lure just ahead of them and hang on tight!
Sheepshead are the convicts of the sea, sporting distinctive black and white stripes. These tough customers typically run 1-8 pounds, but can reach up to 20. You'll find them around any structure with barnacles – docks, bridges, and reefs are prime spots. Spring's the best time to target them, as they gather in huge spawning groups. Anglers love the challenge of hooking these bait-stealers, known for their human-like teeth and ability to crush shellfish. The fight's good, and so is the eating – their white flesh is sweet and mild. Here's a tip: when you feel that telltale nibble, set the hook hard. These guys are pros at stripping bait, so you've got to be quick. Fiddler crabs or live shrimp are your best bets for bait.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 70
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300