East Matagorda Bay Fishing Charters & Guides

East Matagorda Bay

Texas Gulf Coast anglers know that East Matagorda Bay is considered one of the top speckled trout fisheries in the state. Other inshore species such as redfish and flounder are available here as well, but the trout is the shining star. All three are found in good quantity here and provide spectacular fishing; some of the best found in Texas. Located near Matagorda on the Gulf Coast, the bay is in between Galveston to the north and Port Aransas to the South off the Gulf of Mexico. East Matagorda Bay does not connect with Matagorda Bay; although it is considered part of the Matagorda Bay system, the third largest estuary in the Lone Star State. East Matagorda Bay is protected from the gulf by the Matagorda Peninsula, but anglers can access the Gulf of Mexico through Brown Cedar Cut, found near the eastern part of the bay. Most of the tidal flow that impacts East Matagorda Bay is from the Intracoastal Waterway (referred to as the “ICW” by local fishermen and women). These tides also affect the water levels, with low tide depths around three to four feet deep and high tide depths over five feet deep. Seasonality also affects fishing in the bay, with winter months (and cooler temps) showing better results for those targeting trout.

East Matagorda Bay Trout Fishing

It’s no wonder that trout thrive in East Matagorda Bay. The topography of the bay is perfect for the species. The ICW has a couple of run-offs and cuts on the north coast, so places like Old Gulf Cut, North Shoreline, Chinquapin Reefs, and Bird Island Reefs are fantastic fishing grounds for your next trout fishing adventure. Speckled trout are identified by their silver color and spotted backs. Several black dots run from head to tail, which is how they got their name “speckled” or “spotted seatrout.” They are actually part of the drum family and will make the familiar grunt noise as they are pulled from the water. No matter what season you’re fishing, speckled trout are found in East Matagorda Bay; it’s just a matter of knowing where to go at any particular time depending on the water temperatures, as well as other variables. In the winter time, when trout are in deeper waters, look for mullet jumping. Chances are they are running away from a trout. It’s one of the more fascinating aspects of fishing East Matagorda Bay. Find the mullet and you’re certain to find trout. During the summer, try your hand at wade fishing for trout. It’s an experience like no other.

Fishing Matagorda Bay

Other fishing opportunities in East Matagorda Bay include redfish and flounder. Redfish are also part of the drum family (same as the trout) and are typically tan or bronze colored with a distinct black dot near the tail. They are found in the same fishing grounds as trout, particularly near the north shoreline area. Chinquapin Reefs and Old Gulf Cut are two great places to start looking for reds. During the fall anglers will “tail” redfish, which is sight fishing for the redfish tail or back as they feed. Bait your hook with either shrimp or mullet and drift in the tide near the school of reds. You’re sure to get some action in no time. Or try your hand at fishing for flounder. These bottom dwelling fish are really fun to catch when you can get them on the line. Flounder like to hide in the flats and reefs near the north shoreline. They ambush their prey by hiding and striking quickly; present your bait near their hiding hole and get ready for a quick strike. It’s best to have a net with you when fishing for flounder, as they are known to spit the hook before you land them.

East Matagorda Bay Kayak Fishing

Most anglers fishing East Matagorda Bay will fish from a vessel, usually a bay boat. Another method is wade fishing, either right from the shore or stepping out of the boat to get closer to the action. Another method growing in popularity is kayak fishing. Kayaks can fit one or two passengers and you have all your fishing gear and tackle within reach. The water of East Matagorda Bay is perfect, usually calm with enough of a tide to help with momentum. Paddle your way to the fishing grounds and experience this unique method of angling.

Book An East Matagorda Bay Fishing Charter

Some of the great advantages of fishing East Matagorda Bay is the clean water and minimal crowds. There are several kayak launching sites and boat ramps around the lake to gain you access. If you’re unfamiliar with fishing here, we recommend hiring a local professional guide; they’ll be able to take you to the best spots and put you on the fish. Let FishAnywhere help you find the best East Matagorda Bay guide at the best price.