Advanced Flounder Gigging: Matagorda's Elite Trip

Night Flounder Gigging: Matagorda's Hidden Gems

Ready to test your skills against some of the wiliest flounder in Texas? This half-day advanced trip with Coastal Ways Guide Service puts you right in the thick of Matagorda's best flounder haunts. Captain Justin knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's not afraid to share his hard-earned secrets with serious anglers looking to up their game. You'll be out after dark when the big ones come out to play, armed with lights and gigs, hunting for that trophy southern flounder. It's not your average fishing trip – this is for folks who live and breathe the chase.

What to Expect on the Water

Forget about sleeping in – we're talking night owl hours here. You'll meet up with Captain Justin at 8 PM, just as the sun's going down and the flounder are getting active. This 6-hour trip is all about precision and patience. You'll cruise the shallows in a specially rigged boat, scanning the bottom for those telltale eyes and outlines. It's like a game of hide-and-seek, but with 20-pound flatfish as your target. The captain will put you on the fish, but it's up to you to spot 'em and stick 'em. Fair warning: once you've tried gigging, you might get hooked yourself.

Gigging 101: Tools of the Trade

If you've never been flounder gigging before, you're in for a treat. We use high-powered LED lights to illuminate the shallow bottom, making it easier to spot those camouflage masters. Your weapon of choice? A long, sturdy gig – think of it as an oversized fork attached to a pole. When you spot a flounder, you've got to be quick and accurate. One smooth motion and you've got dinner on the end of your gig. It takes practice, but there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of a clean stick. Captain Justin will show you the ropes, including how to read the bottom and identify prime flounder territory.

Top Catches This Season

Matagorda's waters have been on fire lately. We've been seeing some real doormats – that's big flounder in angler speak. Just last week, one of our guests nailed a 24-incher that probably went close to 8 pounds. That's the kind of fish that makes memories. But even if you don't land a monster, the action can be fast and furious when conditions are right. It's not uncommon for skilled giggers to limit out, especially during the fall run when the flounder are moving to deeper waters.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Southern flounder are the stars of this show, and for good reason. These flatfish are masters of disguise, able to change their coloration to match the bottom they're lying on. They've got both eyes on one side of their head, which gives them that distinctive flounder look. In Matagorda, we typically see them ranging from 14 to 20 inches, but bigger ones are always a possibility. The best time to target them is during their fall migration, usually from October to December. That's when the big females move towards the Gulf to spawn, and they're feeding heavily to prepare for the journey. Flounder are ambush predators, lying in wait for smaller fish and shrimp to swim by. When it comes to eating, these fish are hard to beat – their white, flaky meat is prized by seafood lovers everywhere.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something addictive about flounder gigging. Maybe it's the thrill of the hunt, or the challenge of spotting a well-camouflaged fish in the dead of night. Or it could be the unbeatable taste of fresh-caught flounder. Whatever it is, once you've tried it, you'll be itching to get back out there. Our repeat customers tell us it's not just about the fish – it's the whole experience. The quiet of the night, the gentle lapping of waves against the boat, and the camaraderie that comes from sharing a unique adventure. Plus, with Captain Justin's expertise, you're always learning something new, whether it's about fish behavior, local ecology, or just some good old-fashioned fishing tales.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're looking to take your fishing game to the next level, this advanced flounder gigging trip in Matagorda is calling your name. With room for up to three anglers, it's perfect for a small group of friends or family who are serious about their fishing. Remember, we're working with nature here, so no two trips are ever the same. That's part of the excitement – you never know when you might stick the flounder of a lifetime. Don't miss out on your chance to experience some of the best gigging Texas has to offer. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak season, so give Coastal Ways Guide Service a call and lock in your date. Who knows? You might just end up with a new fishing story to tell – or better yet, a cooler full of premium flounder fillets. See you on the water!