Ready to step up your flounder game? This 4-hour pro trip with Captain Pat in Port O'Connor is tailor-made for experienced anglers looking to push their skills to the limit. Kicking off at 7 AM, you'll be targeting southern flounder in some of the area's most productive fishing grounds. With room for 2 guests (and space for up to 4 if you want to bring the whole crew), this private charter is all about honing your technique and landing those big, flat beauties. Plus, you might just hook into some bonus trout, redfish, or drum along the way. We've got the premium bait and fish cleaning covered, so you can focus on what matters - getting those flounder in the boat.
This ain't your average fishing trip, folks. We're talking serious, advanced-level flounder gigging here. Captain Pat knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll take you straight to the honey holes where the big flatties like to hang out. You'll be working the shallows, using specialized gear to spot and gig these camouflage masters. It's a test of patience, skill, and quick reflexes. The early morning start gives us the best shot at catching these bottom-dwellers before they scoot off to deeper waters. And let's be real - there's nothing quite like the rush of spotting a big flounder and making that perfect strike.
On this trip, we're not messing around with beginner setups. We're using top-notch gigging gear - think high-powered LED lights to cut through the water and spot those tell-tale eyes, and razor-sharp gigs for clean, precise strikes. You'll learn how to read the bottom, spot the subtle signs of a buried flounder, and make your move without spooking the fish. It's all about stealth and timing. We'll cover different gigging techniques depending on the water clarity and bottom type. And don't worry if you're more used to rod and reel fishing - Captain Pat will show you how to transfer those skills to gigging like a pro.
Southern Flounder are the stars of this show, and for good reason. These flat fish are masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy or muddy bottom. They can grow up to 25 inches long and weigh over 5 pounds, making for some impressive catches. Fall is prime time for flounder, as they migrate to the Gulf to spawn. But don't sleep on summer gigging - the warm nights can produce some fantastic action. These fish aren't just fun to catch; they're delicious on the dinner table too. There's a real art to spotting and gigging flounder, and nailing a big one is a rush that keeps anglers coming back year after year.
While we're focused on flounder, don't be surprised if we run into some other inshore favorites. Speckled Trout are always a possibility, especially around grass flats and oyster reefs. These silver beauties put up a great fight and are another Port O'Connor staple. Redfish are another potential bonus catch. Look for their copper-colored backs and distinctive spot near the tail. They love to cruise the shallows, often tailing as they root for crabs and shrimp. And let's not forget about Black Drum - these bulldogs of the flats can give you a real workout if you hook into a big one.
Port O'Connor is a flounder fisher's paradise, and this trip is designed to make the most of it. The combination of Captain Pat's local knowledge, top-notch gear, and the chance to really focus on advanced techniques makes this a go-to for serious anglers. It's not just about the quantity of fish - though we usually do pretty well in that department. It's about honing your skills, learning new tricks, and experiencing the thrill of gigging big flounder in their prime habitat. Plus, the early morning start means you're back in time for lunch with some fresh fillets to show for your efforts.
If you're ready to take your flounder fishing to the next level, this is the trip for you. Whether you're looking to sharpen your gigging skills or just want to experience some of the best flounder action Port O'Connor has to offer, Captain Pat will put you on the fish. Remember, we've got room for 2 anglers included, but can accommodate up to 4 if you want to bring some buddies (just $100 extra per additional guest). Don't let this chance slip away - the flounder are waiting, and the gigging is good. Book your spot now and get ready for a morning of serious fishing action. Trust me, once you've experienced advanced flounder gigging in Port O'Connor, you'll be hooked for life.
Southern flounder are sneaky ambush predators that hang out on sandy or muddy bottoms. They're masters of camouflage, changing color to blend in perfectly. Most are "lefties" with both eyes on their left side. These flatfish typically run 15-18 inches but can hit 33 inches and 20 pounds. You'll find 'em in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. Fall's prime time as they move offshore to spawn. Anglers love targeting flounder for their delicate, mild flavor. They put up a decent fight too, especially the big ones. To catch 'em, try drifting or still fishing near structure. Use light tackle with live bait like mullet or shrimp. Here's a local trick: when you feel a bite, wait a few seconds before setting the hook. Flounder often grab bait sideways, so give 'em time to turn it and get it down their throat. Patience pays off with these tasty flatfish.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Evinrude
Maximum Cruising Speed: 40
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 200