Expert-Guided Family Flounder Fishing in Matagorda

Night Flounder Gigging: Family Fun in Matagorda

Get ready for a night of excitement on the water with Captain Justin and Coastal Ways Guide Service. This 6-hour flounder gigging trip in Matagorda, Texas is perfect for families looking to try something different. As the sun sets and the stars come out, you'll head into the calm, shallow waters where flounder like to hang out. It's a unique way to fish that's easy enough for kids to join in, but still gives everyone a rush when you spot those flatfish eyes glowing in your lights.

What's the Deal with Night Fishing?

Night fishing for flounder, or "gigging" as we call it, is a whole different ballgame from daytime angling. We leave the dock at 8 PM when most folks are winding down, but that's when the action's just heating up for flounder. Captain Justin knows these waters like the back of his hand and will take you to spots where flounder come out to feed. You'll be using special lights to spot them on the bottom, then "gig" them with a long pole. It's like underwater treasure hunting, and once you get the hang of it, you'll be hooked. Plus, the nighttime scenery in Matagorda Bay is something else – you might see bioluminescence in the water or spot other critters that come out after dark.

Gigging 101: How It's Done

Flounder gigging is pretty straightforward, which makes it great for families. We use bright lights mounted on the boat to illuminate the shallow water. As we slowly cruise along, keep your eyes peeled for the distinct outline of a flounder – they're masters of camouflage, but their eyes give them away by reflecting the light. Once you spot one, you'll use a long pole called a gig to spear the fish. Don't worry if you've never done this before; Captain Justin will show you the ropes and make sure everyone gets a chance to try. We provide all the gear you need, including the gigs and any safety equipment. Just bring some comfy clothes, maybe a light jacket for the night air, and your sense of adventure.

Why Folks Keep Coming Back

There's something special about being out on the water at night that keeps families returning year after year. It's not just about catching fish – it's the whole experience. Kids love the excitement of using the lights and spotting flounder, and parents appreciate the calm waters and safe setup. Many guests tell us it's become a family tradition, with stories of "the one that got away" or the biggest catch of the night becoming part of family lore. Plus, if you're lucky enough to gig some flounder, you're in for some of the best-tasting fish around.

Flounder: The Flatfish Favorite

Southern Flounder are the stars of this nighttime show. These flat, oddly-shaped fish are ambush predators that bury themselves in the sandy bottom, waiting for smaller fish to swim by. They're masters of camouflage, changing color to match their surroundings. That's why gigging at night is so effective – their eyes give them away in the spotlight. Flounder in Matagorda can grow up to 25 inches long, though most are in the 14-20 inch range. The best time to target them is during their fall run when they move to deeper waters to spawn. This usually happens from October through December, making it prime time for gigging. Anglers love flounder not just for the unique way of catching them, but also for their firm, white meat that's considered a delicacy.

More Than Just Flounder

While flounder are the main attraction, the nighttime waters of Matagorda offer up plenty of other sights. You might spot blue crabs scuttling along the bottom or see mullet jumping out of the water (they do that at night too, believe it or not). If you're really lucky, you could see the glowing trails of bioluminescent organisms in the water – it's like nature's own light show. Captain Justin knows all about the local ecosystem and can point out different species and share interesting facts about the area's wildlife. It's like a nature tour and fishing trip rolled into one.

Family-Friendly All the Way

We designed this trip with families in mind. The boat is stable and safe, perfect for kids (and adults) who might not have their sea legs yet. Captain Justin is great with children and has a knack for keeping them engaged and excited throughout the trip. He'll make sure everyone gets a turn at gigging and will patiently explain everything you need to know. The calm, shallow waters we fish in mean you don't have to worry about rough seas or seasickness. And since it's a private trip for up to three people, you'll have the captain's full attention. It's a chance for the whole family to disconnect from screens and connect with each other over a shared adventure.

What to Bring on Your Night Out

Packing for a night fishing trip is pretty simple. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that can get a bit wet or muddy. Even though it's Texas, nights on the water can get chilly, so bring a light jacket or sweatshirt. Don't forget to pack some snacks and drinks – fishing makes you hungry! Bring a camera to capture those "first catch" moments, but remember it might get splashed. Bug spray can be handy, and if anyone in your group gets motion sick easily, some dramamine might be a good idea (though the waters are usually calm). Captain Justin will provide all the fishing gear and safety equipment, so you don't need to worry about that.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're looking for a unique family adventure in Matagorda, this flounder gigging trip is hard to beat. It's a chance to try something new, spend quality time together, and maybe bring home some tasty fish for dinner. Captain Justin's knowledge and friendly approach make it perfect for first-timers and experienced anglers alike. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak flounder season, so don't wait to book. Give Coastal Ways Guide Service a call and get ready for a night of fun, fish, and family bonding under the Texas stars. Who knows, you might just start a new family tradition!