Hey there, anglers! Ready for some serious South Padre Island action? Captain Smiley Yanez here, and I've got just the ticket for your next fishing adventure. We're talking a 4-hour private afternoon trip that'll have you hooked from start to finish. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this trip's perfect for everyone. We'll be chasing after some of the most sought-after fish in these parts - redfish, sea trout, and black drum. And the best part? You don't need to lug your gear around. We've got top-notch rods, reels, and tackle all set for you. Just remember to grab your Texas fishing license, and we're good to go. The base price covers two anglers, but if you've got a bigger crew, no worries. We can take up to five folks for just an extra hundred bucks per person. Trust me, with the personalized attention you'll get, it's a steal!
Alright, let's talk brass tacks. When you step onto my boat, you're in for a real treat. We'll be cruising the pristine waters around South Padre Island, hitting up all my secret spots where the fish are practically begging to be caught. I've been doing this for years, so I know exactly where to find the hottest action. We'll be using a mix of techniques depending on what's biting - could be some light tackle casting, maybe some drift fishing, or even sight casting if conditions are right. Don't worry if you're new to this; I'll show you the ropes. And for you experienced anglers, get ready to swap some fish tales and maybe learn a new trick or two. The afternoon light on these waters is something else, and there's nothing like the feel of a big red or trout on the line as the sun starts to dip. Just a heads up, the fish aren't the only ones who'll be hooked by the end of this trip!
You might be wondering what makes fishing with Captain Smiley so special. Well, let me tell you - it's not just about catching fish (though we do plenty of that). It's about the whole experience. From the moment you step on board, you're part of the crew. I'll share stories about the area, give you tips on reading the water, and maybe even let you in on a few local secrets. We keep things relaxed but focused - after all, we're here to catch some fish! And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the look on someone's face when they reel in their first big redfish or when a seasoned angler battles a monster trout. It's those moments that keep folks coming back year after year. Plus, with our afternoon trips, you get to sleep in and still have time for a big breakfast before we hit the water. It's the perfect way to spend an afternoon in South Padre Island, if you ask me.
Let's talk about the stars of the show - the fish we'll be after on this trip. First up, we've got the redfish. These copper-colored beauties are a favorite around here, and for good reason. They put up one heck of a fight, especially when you hook into a big bull red. They love to hang around structure and in the shallows, so we'll be targeting them with some sight fishing if conditions allow. Redfish are great eating too, if you're into that.
Next, we've got sea trout, or speckled trout as we like to call 'em. These guys are sneaky and fast, but man, are they fun to catch. They've got a soft mouth, so finesse is key when reeling them in. We usually find them around grass flats or near drop-offs. The thrill of seeing a big speck explode on a topwater lure is hard to beat.
Last but not least, there's the black drum. Don't let their ugly mugs fool you - these fish are a blast to catch. They're bottom feeders, so we'll be using different tactics for them. Black drum can grow to massive sizes, and even the smaller ones put up a good fight. They're also great for beginners because they're not as finicky as some other species.
The best part? These fish are around pretty much year-round, but each season brings its own excitement. In the warmer months, we might find them in shallower waters, while they tend to move a bit deeper when it cools down. No matter when you come, we'll put you on the fish!
Well, folks, there you have it - a rundown of what you can expect on our Arroyo City afternoon fishing trip. Whether you're looking to land your personal best, learn some new techniques, or just enjoy a relaxing day on the water, we've got you covered. Remember, we're talking about 4 hours of non-stop action with all the gear provided. All you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and that fishing license, of course). With room for up to 5 anglers, it's perfect for a family outing, a group of buddies, or even a solo trip where you can get some one-on-one instruction. South Padre Island's fishing is world-class, and I can't wait to show you why. So what are you waiting for? The fish are calling, and Captain Smiley's ready to help you answer. Book your spot now, and let's make some memories out on the water. Trust me, this is one afternoon you won't forget!
Black drum are real bruisers - they can grow up to 90 pounds, but the sweet spot for eating is 5-15 lbs. You'll find 'em in the shallows around oyster beds and mudflats. They love crustaceans, so crab or shrimp bait is your best bet. Spring's prime time when they school up to spawn. These fish put up a great fight and make that signature croaking sound. For a fun challenge, try sight-casting to tailing drum in skinny water. Just remember, the big ones over 15 lbs get pretty tough and don't taste as good. My tip? Use a Carolina rig with a half-ounce weight to keep your bait on the bottom where the drum are feeding. And be ready when they hit - they don't mess around!
Redfish are one of our most popular targets here in South Padre. They love super shallow water, often tailing in just a foot or two. Look for them around oyster reefs, grass flats, and mangroves. Most run 20-30 inches, but they can get much bigger offshore. Spring and fall are great seasons to chase them. Reds put up an amazing fight - they'll take off on long runs and really test your drag. They're also excellent eating with a mild, sweet flavor. To catch 'em, I like to sight-cast with gold spoons or soft plastics. Here's a local secret: on calm days, look for pushing water or "nervous" bait. That often means reds are cruising nearby. Cast ahead of the movement and hold on tight!
Sea trout, or speckled trout, are a blast to catch around South Padre. They usually run 14-24 inches and hang out in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. Fall and winter are prime seasons when they school up in deeper channels. These guys are known for their delicate, flaky white meat - just be careful not to overcook it. They put up a good fight too, often making acrobatic leaps. To target them, try working soft plastics or live shrimp around grass edges and drop-offs. My local trick? Fish the outgoing tide around the mouths of small creeks and cuts. The trout stack up there to ambush bait getting pulled out with the current.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 50
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300