Caught a Southern Kingcroaker Inshore in South Padre

Guided Fishing Trip with Captain Steven Hillary – Rates & Booking

Captain Steven Hillary of Today We Fish Charter and Adventures on Saturday May leads productive 5-hour morning bay fishing trips targeting Southern Kingcroaker and other inshore species around South Padre Island. These guided fishing experiences include all tackle, live bait, and local expertise for $400-600 per group depending on season and group size. The charter accommodates up to 6 anglers and departs early morning to take advantage of prime feeding times when kingcroaker are most active in the shallow bay waters. All fishing licenses, safety equipment, and ice are provided—just bring sunscreen, snacks, and your enthusiasm for quality inshore fishing. Book your trip online or call directly to check availability and secure your preferred date.

Highlights of Bay Fishing Charter

This South Padre Island fishing experience focuses on the productive inshore waters where Southern Kingcroaker congregate around structure and river mouths. The trip combines multiple proven techniques including cork fishing with live shrimp, light tackle drift fishing, and targeted structure fishing to maximize your chances of consistent action. Captain Steven's local knowledge of seasonal patterns, tide movements, and fish behavior ensures you're fishing the most productive spots at the right times.

The charter provides a perfect introduction to Texas bay fishing, with steady action that keeps anglers engaged throughout the 5-hour trip. The calm bay waters offer comfortable fishing conditions while still delivering the excitement of hooking into quality fish. Whether you're new to saltwater fishing or an experienced angler, these trips offer something for everyone with techniques that range from beginner-friendly to more advanced presentations.

Local Species Insights: Southern Kingcroaker

Southern Kingcroaker are perfectly adapted to the shallow bay waters and river mouths around South Padre Island, where they feed actively on small crustaceans and marine worms in the sandy bottom. These members of the drum family are excellent fighters for their size, using their streamlined bodies and strong swimming ability to provide surprising resistance on light tackle. In May, kingcroaker are particularly active in the warming bay waters, making them ideal targets for cork fishing with live shrimp and light tackle presentations. Their preference for structure and drop-offs makes them predictable targets when you know where to look, and Captain Steven's local expertise ensures you're fishing the most productive spots during peak feeding times.

Plan Your Fishing Charter Day

Your 5-hour morning bay fishing adventure begins with an early departure to take advantage of prime fishing conditions when Southern Kingcroaker are most active. The charter boat is equipped with all necessary fishing gear, live bait, safety equipment, and fish cleaning facilities. Captain Steven provides instruction on local techniques including cork fishing, light tackle presentations, and drift fishing methods that work best in these productive bay waters. The trip includes fishing licenses, ice for your catch, and all tackle—you'll just need to bring sun protection, snacks, and drinks for the day. Groups of up to 6 anglers can enjoy comfortable fishing from a well-maintained vessel designed specifically for bay fishing adventures.