Get ready for a one-of-a-kind fishing adventure in Port Mansfield's shallow back bays. Our 6-hour private Airboat Redfish Trip is perfect for newcomers to the sport, giving you a chance to glide into spots other boats can't reach. You'll be in good hands with our expert guides who know these waters like the back of their hand. For $750, you and up to three buddies can hop aboard and we'll provide all the gear you need. No experience? No problem. We'll tailor the trip to your skill level, making sure you're reeling in fish and having a blast from start to finish.
Ever seen those flat-bottomed boats with the big fan on the back? That's what we're talking about. These babies can scoot across water that's only inches deep, letting us sneak into the secret spots where the big reds like to hang out. It's like having an all-access pass to the best fishing grounds in Port Mansfield. Plus, there's nothing quite like the rush of zipping across the flats with the wind in your hair. Just remember to hold onto your hat!
If you're new to fishing, don't sweat it. We'll start with the basics - how to cast, set the hook, and reel in your catch. Redfish are perfect for beginners because they put up a good fight but aren't too tricky to land. We'll show you how to use light tackle and artificial lures to entice these copper-colored beauties. The shallow water means you might even spot your target before you cast - talk about exciting! As the day goes on, we'll build on your skills, maybe even trying some sight-casting if you're up for it.
Picture this: You're cruising through winding channels, surrounded by waving grass and the calls of shorebirds. Your guide cuts the engine and points out a telltale swirl in the water - redfish on the prowl. You cast your line, feeling that little thrill of anticipation. Then bam! Fish on! The next few minutes are a blur of bent rods and splashing water as you work to bring in your catch. After a quick photo op, we release the fish and move on to the next hotspot. Between catches, you'll soak in the peaceful coastal scenery and maybe pick up some local fish tales from your guide.
There's something special about fishing the Port Mansfield flats that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the crystal-clear water that lets you see the fish before you even cast. Or the way the airboat lets you access spots that feel totally untouched. For many, it's the steady action - when the bite is on, you can expect to catch fish after fish without the long waits you might experience offshore. And let's be honest, who doesn't love the bragging rights that come with landing a big red on light tackle?
While redfish might be the headliners, they're not the only fish in the sea (or bay, in this case). Let's talk about some of the other local celebrities you might encounter:
Southern Flounder: These flatfish are masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy bottom. They're most active in the cooler months, especially during their fall run to the Gulf. Flounder fishing requires a bit of finesse - a slow retrieve and a sharp eye to detect their subtle bite. But man, are they worth it. There's nothing quite like the taste of fresh flounder for dinner.
Snook: The elusive snook is a bucket-list fish for many anglers. These hard-fighting predators love to hang out around structure, ambushing their prey. In Port Mansfield, you'll find them lurking around mangroves and oyster bars. Snook are known for their acrobatic jumps and powerful runs, so hold on tight if you hook one! They're catch-and-release only in Texas, but the thrill of landing one is reward enough.
Sea Trout: Also known as speckled trout, these spotted beauties are a staple of inshore fishing. They school up in the bays, often hanging out over grass flats or near drop-offs. Sea trout are fun to catch on light tackle and make for some excellent eating if you decide to keep a few for the grill. Listen for their distinctive "croaker" sound - it's a dead giveaway that you're in a good spot.
Redfish: Ah, the star of the show. Redfish, or red drum, are loved for their strong fights and their distinctive spot near the tail. In the shallows, you might see them "tailing" - feeding with their tails sticking out of the water. It's a sight that gets every angler's heart racing. Reds can grow to impressive sizes, with bull reds topping 40 inches. Even the smaller ones, in the 20-30 inch range, will give you a run for your money.
So, what do you say? Ready to experience some of the best inshore fishing Texas has to offer? Our Port Mansfield Airboat Redfish Trip is more than just a fishing trip - it's a chance to learn new skills, make some memories, and maybe even catch the fish of a lifetime. Whether you're a complete newbie or just looking to try something different, we've got you covered. The fish are biting, the airboat's fueled up, and we're ready to show you a day on the water you won't forget. Give us a call to book your spot - but fair warning, once you try it, you might just be hooked for life!
Redfish, or red drum, are one of our most popular inshore targets. They're easily identified by their coppery color and black tail spot. Most reds we catch are in the 20-30 inch range, but bull reds over 40 inches aren't uncommon. Look for them in super shallow water, often with their backs exposed as they hunt crabs and baitfish. They love oyster bars, grass flats, and mangrove shorelines in 1-4 feet of water. Fall is prime time as they school up, but you can catch them year-round. Anglers love reds for their hard-pulling fights and excellent table fare. They'll hit a variety of lures, but it's hard to beat a gold spoon or scented soft plastic. Local tip: on calm days, cruise the flats and look for their bronze backs or tail wakes. Sight-casting to these fish is a rush you won't forget.
Also known as speckled trout, these popular gamefish are a staple in our bays and grass flats. They typically range from 14-24 inches, though gator trout over 5 pounds aren't uncommon. Look for them in 2-6 feet of water, especially over seagrass or near depth changes. They're aggressive feeders, often schooling up to chase bait. Fall and spring are peak seasons, but you can catch them year-round. Anglers love trout for their willingness to hit lures and their mild, flaky meat. They put up a decent fight too, especially on light tackle. My go-to technique is drifting live shrimp under a popping cork, but soft plastics and topwaters work great too. Pro tip: when you find one trout, there's usually more nearby. Fan cast the area thoroughly before moving on.
Snook are the prize fighters of our inshore waters. These sleek, powerful fish average 1-2 feet but can reach over 4 feet and 40 pounds. Look for them around mangroves, docks, and other structure in our bays and passes. They're ambush predators, using short bursts of speed to nail baitfish. Spring through fall is prime time, especially around the new and full moons. Anglers love snook for their explosive strikes and acrobatic jumps. They're also excellent table fare, though highly regulated. Live bait like mullet or pinfish works well, but artificials like swim baits and topwaters can be deadly too. My local tip: focus on tide changes and "match the hatch" with your lure size and color. When you hook one, be ready for a fight – snook know how to use structure to their advantage.
These flatfish are masters of camouflage, blending into sandy or muddy bottoms in our shallow bays and estuaries. They typically range from 15-18 inches but can grow up to 33 inches and 20 pounds. Southern flounder are ambush predators, lying in wait for smaller fish and crustaceans. Look for them in depths of 1-60 feet, especially near structure or dropoffs. Fall is prime time as they migrate offshore to spawn. Anglers love targeting flounder for their delicate, mild flavor and the challenge of hooking them. They have a subtle bite, so stay alert. My go-to rig is a Carolina-rigged live mullet or bull minnow, dragged slowly along the bottom. When you feel that telltale "thump," give it a few seconds before setting the hook. Patience is key with these tricky flatfish, but the reward is worth it.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Chevrolete
Maximum Cruising Speed: 45
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 550