Pro Flounder Fishing | Port O'Connor Charters

Advanced Flounder Gigging: Port O'Connor's Hidden Gem

Ready to step up your flounder game? This half-day trip with Captain Pat in Port O'Connor is the real deal for serious anglers looking to hone their gigging skills. We're talking prime fishing grounds, expert guidance, and the chance to land some impressive southern flounder. But that's not all – you might just hook into some tasty trout, redfish, or drum while you're at it. So grab your gear and let's hit the water for some world-class inshore action.

Trip Overview

Kick off your day bright and early at 7 AM with Captain Pat, a local pro who knows these waters like the back of his hand. This 4-hour charter is perfect for experienced anglers ready to put their skills to the test. We're keeping it intimate with room for 2 guests included, but there's space for up to 4 if you want to bring the whole crew (just $100 extra per person). Captain Pat's all about sharing his local knowledge, so you'll be picking up pro tips left and right as you navigate Port O'Connor's prime flounder spots. And hey, no need to stress about bait or fish cleaning – we've got you covered so you can focus on what matters: landing that trophy catch.

Gigging Greatness

If you've never tried flounder gigging before, you're in for a treat. This ain't your average fishing trip – we're talking specialized gear and ninja-like precision. We'll be using long, barbed spears called gigs to target these flatfish as they camouflage themselves on the sandy bottom. Captain Pat will show you the ropes, from spotting tell-tale signs of flounder to perfecting your aim. It's all about stealth, patience, and a keen eye. And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the rush of successfully gigging a big ol' flounder. Just remember, we're all about sustainable fishing here, so we'll be following all local regulations to keep these waters thriving for years to come.

Target Species

Southern Flounder: These flat beauties are the stars of our show, and for good reason. Known for their delicious, mild flavor and firm white meat, southern flounder are prized catches in Port O'Connor. They're masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy or muddy bottom. During the day, they bury themselves to ambush prey, but at night, they're more active – which is why we often gig for them after dark. Fall is prime time for flounder fishing, as they migrate to spawn in the Gulf. Expect to see fish ranging from 14 to 24 inches, with the bigger ones pushing 5 pounds or more. Landing a doormat-sized flounder is a badge of honor among local anglers.

Speckled Trout: While we're primarily after flounder, don't be surprised if we tangle with some speckled trout. These aggressive predators are known for their spotted bodies and sharp teeth. They're a blast to catch on light tackle, often putting up acrobatic fights. In Port O'Connor, we see trout year-round, but they're especially active in the spring and fall. Look for them around grass flats, oyster reefs, and channel edges. A good-sized speck here runs 18 to 24 inches, but trophy trout over 25 inches aren't unheard of.

Redfish: Another inshore favorite, redfish (or red drum) are hard-fighting fish that'll test your skills. They're easily identified by their copper color and distinctive black spot near the tail. Redfish love to cruise the shallows, often revealing their presence with their tails sticking out of the water as they root for crabs and shrimp. In Port O'Connor, we catch reds all year, but the fall "bull red" run is something special. Most of our reds are in the 20 to 30-inch range, but during the run, you might hook into a monster over 40 inches!

Black Drum: Often overlooked but always fun to catch, black drum are the workhorses of our inshore waters. These cousins of the redfish can grow to massive sizes, with some old-timers topping 50 pounds. We typically target the smaller "puppy drum" in the 14 to 30-inch range, as they're better eating. Black drum have a distinctive thumping sound they make with their air bladders, earning them the nickname "Big Uglies." They're bottom feeders, so we'll look for them around structure and oyster beds. Spring is prime time for big schools of black drum in Port O'Connor.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Port O'Connor might not be as well-known as some other Gulf Coast fishing spots, but that's part of its charm. This little slice of paradise offers world-class inshore fishing without the crowds. The diverse ecosystem here, with its mix of bays, flats, and channels, creates the perfect habitat for a variety of gamefish. And let's be real – there's something special about gigging for flounder. It's a unique skill that combines hunting and fishing, requiring patience, stealth, and quick reflexes. Once you've experienced the thrill of spotting and successfully gigging a big flounder, you'll be hooked for life. Plus, with Captain Pat's expertise and local knowledge, you're not just going fishing – you're getting an education in Port O'Connor's marine environment and fishing techniques that'll up your game no matter where you cast a line.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, folks, if you're itching to take your flounder gigging skills to the next level, this is your chance. Captain Pat's half-day advanced trip in Port O'Connor is the real deal – prime fishing grounds, expert guidance, and the opportunity to land some serious southern flounder. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just looking to step up your game, this trip's got something for every serious angler. And remember, with only 2 spots included (and a max of 4), these trips fill up fast. So don't wait around – grab your fishing buddies, book your spot, and get ready for some world-class inshore action in Port O'Connor. Trust me, your taste buds (and your fishing stories) will thank you later. Let's get gigging!