Fishing in South Padre

Because of the warmer climate, the Rio Grande Reef's diverse biosphere, and the accessibility of different styles of fishing, South Padre Island is the fishing destination for the fishing veteran and the wrangling rookie. Here is everything you need to know before you head to the shore.

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Best Ways to Fish - Shore, Pier, and Boat

If you stay at South Padre Island Escapes, you'll be a ten minute drive away from the best angling you've ever seen. The place you decide to fish will be a factor in what you choose to pack, what kind of fish you catch, and how far you have to drive. You can choose between shore fishing, pier fishing, and deep sea fishing.

Holly Beach
33 minute drive
This beach is a prime fishing location. You'll have plenty of room since the beach is so large, and you'll get to see gorgeous views of the city without needing to be close to the action. It's a bit of a longer drive, but the peace and quiet is worth it.

Isla Blanca Beach
12 minute drive
On the other hand, if you want to remain close to your hotel, and don't mind interacting with other people, you can shore fish on the Isla Blanca Beach. You may have a better chance at getting something rare since this beach is on the gulf with no intrusions like Holly.

South Padre Island Jetties
12 minute drive
Walking out onto the man-made jetties is something every tourist must do at least once. Not only does it bring you closer to the reef for a better catch, but you can also relax like you would on the beach. Just bring yourself some snacks, comfortable seating, and fluids.

Pirate's Landing Fishing Pier
12 minute drive
Running along the causeway, Pirate's landing fishing pier is yet another excellent spot to cast out your line. There are shaded areas, restrooms, and food selections nearby, making it better for retirement-age folks. It's a more traditional pier than the jetties.

Boat Rentals

One thing is for certain: While you have a chance to get a big catch on land, you are much more likely to have a classic "fishing story" by getting out onto the open water.

Deep Sea fishing using a charter, a rentable boat, or a kayak can give you better odds at catching something memorable. You can also paddle to the reef or Brazos Santiago Pass, giving yourself almost a guarantee.

These are only a few of the rental services, but there are plenty more if you want to shop around:

SPI Excursions
SPI Fun Rental & Island Surf Rental
Padre Getaways
Bayside Water Rentals

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Types of Fish

As mentioned before, the man-made Rio Grande Reef is home to a wide variety of ocean life. As such, the kinds of fish you'll be able to see and catch is higher than in most areas of the country. Here is a modest list of what you can expect:

Speckled trout
Flounder
Black drum
Redfish
Tarpon
Red Snapper
Mahi Mahi
Amberjack
Tuna
Sailfish

State Laws

It's important that you keep the local fishing laws. Ensure that everyone in your party has a fishing license/package based on age and state residency. ($35 residential, $65 nonresidential). Keep up to date with endangered and threatened fish species, and know when you can keep a specific kind of fish. For example, you can't keep a red snapper unless you catch it in the two months it is allowed.

Now you are much better prepared to fish in Texas. We hope that if you come to South Padre Island, you'll stay with South Padre Island Escapes--we aim to make your fishing trip better.