World-Class Rio Hondo Fishing | True Story Charters

Published Date: July 18, 2025
Fishing

Rio Hondo
$475 - $700 price range
Updated Date: July 24, 2025

Summary

Ready for a full day of fishing in Rio Hondo? Captain Steven from True Story Adventures Charter knows these waters like the back of his hand. We'll spend 8 hours targeting the Texas Slam - that's Flounder, Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, and Black Drum. The boat can take up to 4 anglers, so bring your buddies along. We'll hit productive flats and bays where the action is consistent. Captain Steven's got the know-how and techniques to put you on fish, but don't forget to bring your own snacks and fishing license. This trip is perfect if you want to really dig into the local fishing scene and have plenty of time to work different spots. The inshore waters here are rich with life, and we'll have all day to explore them. Whether you're after your personal best or just want to enjoy a day on the water, this charter delivers. Let's get out there and see what's biting!

World-Class Rio Hondo Fishing | True Story Charters

Reeling in Rio Hondo

12/29 Solo Scouting Trip

5 black drum and redfish caught in Rio Hondo

12/22 Father and Son Action

Reel in the Texas Slam: 8-Hour Rio Hondo Adventure

Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready to spend a full day chasing some of the best inshore fishing Texas has to offer? Hop aboard with Captain Steven from True Story Adventures Charter for an 8-hour trip that'll have you casting lines and hauling in fish from sunup to sundown. We're talking about targeting the Texas Slam right here in Rio Hondo's productive waters – Flounder, Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Black Drum. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this trip's got everything you need for a day of non-stop action on the flats and bays.

What's the Deal?

Picture this: You're out on the water as the sun's coming up, feeling that gentle Texas breeze and hearing nothing but the lapping of waves against the boat. Captain Steven's at the helm, using his years of local knowledge to put you right where the fish are biting. We're not messing around with any of that "fish finder" nonsense – this is old-school, hands-on fishing at its finest. You'll be working the flats, drifting the channels, and maybe even sight-casting if conditions are right. Bring your own snacks and fishing license, and we'll take care of the rest. With room for up to four anglers, it's perfect for a day out with your buddies or the family.

Hooking Up Texas-Style

On this trip, we're all about versatility. Depending on what's biting and where, we might be slinging soft plastics for trout, working topwater lures for aggressive reds, or bottom fishing with live bait for those big ugly drum. Captain Steven's got all the gear and know-how, so don't worry if you're new to this. He'll show you the ropes, from setting the hook to working a popping cork. And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the thrill of a redfish tearing off with your line or the subtle tap-tap of a flounder taking the bait. We'll be hitting all the hotspots – from grass flats to oyster reefs – to give you the best shot at that Texas Slam.

Fish Tales from the Flats

No customer reviews provided for this trip.

The Big Four: Your Target Species

Southern Flounder: These flatfish are the masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy bottom. They're ambush predators, so we'll be dragging baits slowly along the bottom to tempt them. Fall is prime time for flounder, as they start their migration to the Gulf. A legal-sized flounder in Texas is typically 14 inches or more, but we've seen some real doormats come out of these waters!

Black Drum: Don't let their ugly mugs fool you – these bruisers put up a great fight and taste amazing on the dinner table. They love hanging around structure and can grow to over 30 pounds in the bays. We'll be looking for their characteristic "thumping" as they crush crabs and mollusks on the bottom. Spring is often the best time to target big black drum, but they're around all year.

Speckled Seatrout: Also known as spotted seatrout, these are probably the most popular inshore game fish in Texas. They're aggressive feeders and will hit everything from live shrimp to topwater lures. The "gator" trout (over 25 inches) are the trophy, but even the smaller ones are a blast on light tackle. You can catch specks year-round, but fall and spring often see the best action.

Redfish: Ah, the bulldogs of the flats. Redfish, or red drum, are known for their powerful runs and distinctive spot on the tail. We might find them tailing in shallow water or schooled up and smashing bait. They're not picky eaters, which makes them great for anglers of all skill levels. The slot size in Texas is typically 20-28 inches, but we occasionally hook into those big bull reds that'll really test your drag.

Time to Wet a Line

Look, I could go on all day about the fishing here in Rio Hondo, but nothing beats experiencing it for yourself. This 8-hour trip with True Story Adventures Charter is your ticket to some of the best inshore action Texas has to offer. Whether you're looking to check off that Texas Slam or just want to spend a day on the water pulling on fish, Captain Steven's got you covered. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait around. Give us a call, book your trip, and get ready for a day of fishing you won't forget. Trust me, once you feel that first hit, you'll be hooked – pun absolutely intended!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black drum are the heavyweight champions of our local waters. These powerful fish can range from 5 to 30 pounds, with some monsters pushing 90 pounds. You'll find them in brackish areas, around oyster beds, and in shallow flats. They're not picky eaters, crushing shellfish with those strong jaws. Spring's the best time to target them, when they school up to spawn. That's when you might hear their famous croaking sounds underwater. Anglers love black drum for the challenge - they pull hard and don't give up easy. For table fare, stick to the smaller ones under 15 pounds. To catch 'em, use fresh crab on the bottom. Here's a local trick: fish near freshwater creek mouths on an outgoing tide. The drum gather there to feast on flushed-out goodies.

Redfish

Redfish are a blast to catch and a favorite around here. These copper-colored bruisers usually run 20-30 inches, but can get up to 45 inches and 50 pounds. Look for them tailing in shallow flats and bays, often in just 1-4 feet of water. They love hanging around oyster beds, grass flats, and structure. Spring and fall are prime seasons when the water's just right. Redfish put up a great fight and taste delicious - mild and sweet. For the best shot at landing one, try sight-casting with a gold spoon or topwater plug early in the morning. When you see that distinctive spot near the tail, you know you're in for some fun. Just remember to work your lure slow and steady - redfish aren't known for chasing down fast-moving baits.

Sea Trout

Spotted seatrout, or speckled trout as we call 'em, are a staple in these parts. Most run 14 to 24 inches, but trophy gators can hit 30 inches. Look for them in grass flats, around structure, or in deeper channels during winter. They're aggressive feeders, which makes for exciting topwater action at dawn and dusk. Fall and spring are prime seasons when the water temps are just right. Trout are popular for their sporty fight and excellent table quality - mild, flaky meat that's hard to beat. To up your chances, try drifting with live shrimp under a popping cork. And here's a tip: when you find one trout, there's usually more nearby. These guys like to hang out in schools, so work an area thoroughly once you get a bite.

Southern Flounder

Southern flounder are the masters of camouflage in our waters. These flat ambush predators typically range from 15 to 18 inches, but can grow up to 33 inches. You'll find them lurking on sandy or muddy bottoms in bays, estuaries, and near shore. Fall is prime time as they migrate to spawn offshore. Flounder fishing is all about patience and precision - they won't chase down a bait. Anglers love the challenge of hooking these sneaky fish, not to mention their reputation as one of the tastiest catches around. For best results, try slow-dragging a bull minnow or mullet along the bottom near drop-offs or structure. Here's a local secret: focus on areas with lots of bait fish activity. Where there's bait, there's often a flounder waiting to ambush it.

About the True Story Adventures

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 42

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 200

Ready for a full day of fishing action in Rio Hondo? Join Captain Steven of True Story Adventures Charter for an 8-hour inshore trip packed with opportunities to catch Texas favorites. We'll be targeting the Texas Slam - Flounder, Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, and Black Drum - in the productive flats and bays. Captain Steven knows these waters like the back of his hand and will share proven techniques to help you land some beauties. Bring your own snacks and fishing license, and we'll take care of the rest. With room for up to 4 guests, it's a great day out for friends or family looking to experience some of the best fishing South Texas has to offer. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to the sport, you'll enjoy consistent action and expert guidance throughout the day. Book your spot now for a rewarding day on the water in Rio Hondo!

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