facebook pixel

Speckled Trout Fishing Charters

Check real-time availability on 884 speckled trout fishing trips. Online booking | 4.89 / 5 stars | Guides from $500

Experts Available 24/7

Licensed & Insured Guides

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Speckled Trout Fishing Charters

Fishing in Galveston

Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Galveston

Jetties & Jaws: Reel In The Fun

100% (32)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Galveston

Inshore Fishing Charter in Galveston

Galveston Inshore Trip

100% (12)
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $525
Fishing in Aransas Pass

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Aransas Pass

Flats And Backwaters On Artificials

95% (22)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $350
Fishing in Gulf Shores

Inshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores Classic

89% (9)
27 ft 1 - 4 People From $325
Fishing in Ingleside

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Ingleside

Bay Fishing Trip - 23’ Haynie

100% (3)
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $450
Fishing in South Padre Island

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

SPI Classic

75% (12)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $450

Top Cities for Speckled Trout Fishing

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Speckled Trout Fishing Charters

Fishing in Galveston
Fishing in Galveston
Fishing in Galveston
trip description for Galveston Trout and Redfish Roundup in Galveston

Get out there and enjoy an unforgettable inshore fishing adventure in Galveston, Texas, with Captain Dean as your guide! On this trip, you'll get to experience the thrill of reeling in classic saltwater game fish, including Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, and more. These fish are all super fun to catch, and make for great eating as well. You'll be fishing from the deck of Captain Dean's 24' Triton center console, which is ideal for fishing here in Galveston Bay. Captain Dean's years of experience and expert knowledge of the local fishing spots ensure a successful and enjoyable trip for anglers of all skill levels. Join him for a day of fun, relaxation, and memories that will last a lifetime! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Galveston

Galveston Trout And Redfish Roundup

100% (7)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in South Padre Island
Fishing in South Padre Island
Fishing in South Padre Island
trip description for 4-Hour Inshore - 30’ Triton in South Padre Island

If you’ve never been fishing around South Padre Island, then you’re missing out! And if you want to explore it in style, hop aboard Captain Henry's 30' Triton for a relaxing yet action-packed day out on the water! Capt. Henry is a super-knowledgeable fisherman, who not only knows how to have a good time but also knows all the best honey holes to whack the big three: Redfish, Trout, and Flounder! You'll be fishing aboard his badass 30ft Triton Center Console so you'll have no trouble cutting through light chop, and fishing days when the wind is blowing. She also provides a comfortable head (restroom) on board so you don't have to worry about hauling back to the dock in case of emergency! Captain Henry will provide you with all the quality rods, reels, and tackle you could possibly need for a successful day out on the water. His also has tons of shade, tons of seating, and tons of room, so you can relax with your favorite beverage while you wait for your reel to start whirring! Make sure you bring a valid Texas Fishing License with a saltwater stamp as well as some snacks of your choice, and Captain Henry will take care of the rest. Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

4-Hour Inshore - 30’ Triton

100% (9)
30 ft 1 - 6 People From $645
Fishing in Port Aransas
Fishing in Port Aransas
Fishing in Port Aransas
trip description for Coastal Bend Inshore Slam in Port Aransas

Let Captain Alex be your guide to some of the top fishing locations on Texas' long, beautiful Gulf coast. Captain Alex is based out of Port Aransas, but he fishes all the water in the Coastal Bend, from Aransas Pass down to Corpus Chisti Bay. He specializes in rod-and-reel techniques for catching Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, Drum, and Flounder, and will provide all the equipment and bait you'll need for the ideal inshore fishing adventure. All you need is your Fishing License, proper clothing, some sunscreen, and a cooler for your cold drinks. You'll be fishing aboard his 23' Majek center console, a fast boat powered by a 200-HP Evinrude engine. Captain Alex knows this water well, and he'll put you on top of some terrific fishing spots. Depending on the area and the species, you'll use a combination of live bait and lures on light tackle to bring in the fish. Alex is extremely knowledgeable and can certainly help you practice your cast or tell you about fish behavior and ecology. Captain Alex's chartered fishing trips provide a great way to get out on the water and relax on the Bay with your family, friends or co-workers on that special outing! So head out with Captain Alex to make some memories worth making! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Port Aransas

Coastal Bend Inshore Slam

100% (8)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Islamorada
Fishing in Islamorada
Fishing in Islamorada
trip description for Epic Islamorada Inshore in Islamorada

Head out for a half, 3/4 or full day Epic Fishing trip in the beautiful Florida Keys fishing for Tarpon, Redfish, Snook, Permit, Mangrove Snapper, Shark, Goliath Grouper, Spanish Mackerel, and much more! Captain Ron is an Islamorada Veteran with over 42 years of Experience chartering fishing trips in the Keys. Per his expert opinion, he recommends half-day 4-hour trips for novice anglers and families with kids. The 6-hour trip is more involved and gives you and your group more time to try different spots, and catch a variety of fish species that the Keys has to offer. And for those fishermen looking to catch everything, that one big fish, or try for the Backcountry slam, Captain Ron recommends the 8-hour full-day trip! No matter which trip you choose, Captain Ron will supply the fishing gear, and you should bring snack, drinks, a cap, sunblock, sunglasses and a camera. Come along and Enjoy!! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Epic Islamorada Inshore

100% (8)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
trip description for Gulf Coast Bites by the Shore in Gulf Shores

Enjoy a morning or afternoon on the water with Captain Jamie and spend several hours targeting Trout, Redfish, Sheepshead, Whiting, Spanish Mackerel and plenty of other nearshore species that call Gulf Shores home. You'll be fishing aboard a 24' Bull's Bay bay boat with a capacity for 4 people. She'll have no problem getting you to where the fish are biting comfortably, quickly, and without the diesel fumes to boot! This sleek vessel comes with GPS, Fishfinder, a Live Bait Well, and an Ice Box to store your keepers. Captain Jamie will provide all rods, reels, tackle, live bait and fishing licenses. All you need to bring is sunglasses, sunscreen, and any snacks or drinks you might need. Captain Jamie will do the rest! Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

Gulf Coast Bites By The Shore

100% (8)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Rockport
Fishing in Rockport
Fishing in Rockport
trip description for Half Day Bay Adventure in Rockport

Get on the water with Captain Brody to catch big Reds, Black Drum, Speckled Trout, and Flounder around Rockport! Captain Brody is a true pro, and has all the tackle you need for whatever fishing suits your fancy! Your journey will start on a restored 23’ Mowdy bay boat. It can sit up to 5 guests and uses a 150 HP Suzuki engine. It’s got all the modern GPS, fishfinder, and radio technology for navigation, a livewell to supply you with live bait, and an ice-box to store your fish and drinks. Bring whatever drinks and food you want for your half-day adventure, a Texas fishing license, and let Captain Brody take care of the rest! Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Rockport

Half Day Bay Adventure

100% (8)
23 ft 1 - 5 People From $600
See All Speckled Trout Trips

Everything to Know About Booking a speckled trout fishing charter

What are the best speckled trout fishing charters?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 884 speckled trout trips, and the most popular trips are Jetties & Jaws: Reel in the Fun guided by Meghan, Galveston Inshore Trip guided by Ralph, and Flats and Backwaters on Artificials guided by Larry.

Our guides are rated a 4.89 out of 5 based on 2699 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly speckled trout guides / fishing lessons? Check out our beginner and family friendly speckled trout guides.

What types of speckled trout fishing charters are common?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular for speckled trout as well as inshore fishing, flats fishing, and nearshore fishing.

The most common fishing techniques are light tackle fishing, live bait fishing, and artificial lure fishing but drift fishing and bottom fishing are popular as well.

How much do speckled trout fishing charters cost?

for speckled trout prices can range anywhere from about $500 to $1,110, but the average price for a half day trip for speckled trout is $645. The average price for a full day trip for speckled trout is $1,045.

What month is best for speckled trout fishing?

The most popular season for speckled trout fishing is summer, and most anglers book their trips 13 days in advance.

Do I need a fishing license for speckled trout and what are the bag limits for speckled trout?

See here for more information on speckled trout fishing licenses, speckled trout bag limits, and fishing season regulations for speckled trout. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right speckled trout rules and regulations.

What is a Speckled Trout

The Spotted Seatrout, Speckled Trout, or "Speck" (Cynoscion nebulosus) is a sport fish species that frequents inshore waters ranging from Massachusetts, down the East Coast, and around the Gulf of Mexico to the Yucatan Peninsula.

They are characterized by distinct black spots along their back and dorsal fins, surprisingly large teeth, and bright yellow skin on the inside of their mouths.

Contrary to popular belief given their name and resemblance, the speckled trout is a member of the drum family, not the freshwater trout family.

How big do Speckled Trout get?

The size of speckled trout largely depends on their sex. The average weight for males and females is between 1-2 pounds, but in many areas, fish weighing up to 5 pounds are common. The average male speckled trout is around 19 inches long, while the average female is around 25 inches long. Females grow quicker and larger than males, and can live to be 10 years old, more than double the average age for males.

What is the biggest Speckled Trout ever caught?

The current International Game Fish Association, or IFGA, all-tackle world record was set in 2015 on the Indian River flats near Melbourne on the east coast of Florida. The specimen weighed in at 17.7 pounds, and was 34.25 inches long, over 10 centimeters longer than the previous record set in 1995. The fish was caught using live mullet on a light spinning rod.

Large female trophy trout are often referred to as "gator trout" or "gators" depending on local vernacular.

Where is the best place to catch speckled trout?

Speckled trout are an estuarine fish, meaning that they live in the inshore waters typically located between the mainland and barrier islands. In temperate climates, speckled trout typically frequent water less than 10 feet deep. Look for grass beds, oyster bars, mud flats, and stump fields. During the winter months and after cold fronts, speckled trout seek refuge from the cold water in deeper channels and basins, and follow baitfish into the shallows wherever present. Don't be afraid to go shallow! Often the biggest "gators" are caught in water waist-deep or shallower.

As a general rule of thumb, look out for areas where the trout can ambush their prey. Grass beds, depressions in the coastline, areas where the current breaks and slows, and underwater structure located in basins and channels produce the best results. Irregularities in the water's surface and birds flying overhead are dead giveaways of bait activity, and are often a good indicator of where the trout are.

You can catch speckled trout in any inshore fishery in the Gulf of Mexico, and going up the Atlantic coast of Florida and into North Carolina. While they're present in Chesapeake Bay, their numbers dwindle as you go further north. Locations like Matagorda and Laguna Madre in Texas and Calcasieu Lake in Louisiana are trophy trout havens.

When should I catch Speckled Trout

One of the great things about fishing for speckled trout is they can be caught year round. Even better yet, when the winter comes around and other fish head for deeper waters, speckled trout remain in the easily accessible shallows. In the winter time, be on the lookout for an overcast day, especially in areas with clear water. Specks, especially big ones, feed more actively in low-light conditions.

In the winter, big trout aren't afraid to chase their prey into the shallowest of waters. If you're duck hunting, odds are there are big trout right under the surface. Big trout can be caught in the summer near the mouths of tidewater drainage creeks. They tend to seek refuge from the heat in grass beds and deeper holes, so be on the lookout for these when fishing during a hot summer day.

How do you catch Speckled Trout

Techniques for catching speckled trout vary greatly given location, weather/tidal patterns, and time of year. Speckled trout generally feed when tidal movement moves baitfish, so keeping an eye on tidal charts is a must. Catching the outgoing tide is a great start.

Speckled trout fishing can be done by boat, from the shore, or wading in the shallows. There are pros and cons with each of them. Using a shallow flats boat, a silent trolling motor or a pole to move through the water allows you to cover more water, but leaves the possibility of spooking the fish. Fishing from the shore or a pier is simple and easy, but you won't have access to the prime backwater fishing grounds. Wading allows you to maintain a low profile and stalk your quarry, but requires extra equipment and you won't cover as much water.

Lures and baits for speckled trout vary as well. For big "gator trout", it's tough to beat shrimp and mullet (dead or alive) under a popping cork. Varying the retrieve on a popping cork simulates live action of your bait. For those looking for artificial action, jigged artificial plastics work well, especially in deeper waters. For the lure fisherman, Corky's, Heddon Zara Spooks and spoons do the trick. A slow retrieve imitating a dying baitfish produces the best results.

Once you hook up, don't try to muscle the fish in. Keep the drag tight and let her tire out. Once you land her, grab the caudal (tail) fin and support the fish just behind the gills. Snap a pic, and put her back in the water until she swims away. The big trout are female breeders, and releasing them safely ensures more big trout for years to come.

Are Speckled Trout good to eat? What are the best Speckled Trout recipes?

Speckled trout make for excellent table fare. Famous chef Emeril Lagasse once said speckled trout is the best eating fish in North America, and for good reason. The meat is often characterized as flaky and white, with a sweet and buttery finish. This flavor profile makes speckled trout a very versatile fish to cook. The most common way to cook speckled trout is to bread the filets and fry them. From there, you can finish it off with a garlic lemon sauce, throw some capers in the mix for a briny taste, or top it off with a creole sauce like Emeril's recipe.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    We had a wonderful time with Capt Marty. The conversation was fun and easy going. Will definitely book with him again. Thank you for a great afternoon

    Jackie H. with Marty C. of Gulf Shores, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time fishing with Capitan Corey slow bite but still a great experience

    Joe R. with Corey B. of Rockport, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip, he took my Dad and I out and put us on some specs.

    Jacob M. with Blake S. of Galveston, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    MY TRIP WAS PERFECT. The weather was terrible and my guide, Nick kept in touch with me to plan the perfect launch time. He patiently waited it out with me and we loaded the ice chest with trout! I would highly recommend booking with Frank again. I'll always ask for Nick!

    Kristi B. with Frank D. of Grand Isle, Louisiana

  • ★★★★★
    Incredible fishing! I’ve never had the experience where I cast my line and within 5 seconds I get a strike. Over and over, it was constant cast and strike. Caught 20 fish in the first hour. Not only an expert guide for fishing, but Patrick is a really nice person to hang out with. Super chill to talk sports and fishing, but was cool and professional. He also recommended an awesome place for lunch where they grilled our catch! Top notch, highest recommendation possible!

    Robert B. with Patrick B. of Key Largo, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Some times you are fortunate to meet people that leave a deep impression an impregnation on you. Captain Mark is one of these rare persons. I was fortunate to go fishing with him today and we had a blast. He is so kind, so full of knowledge, that I do recommend going fishing with him. His repeated actions around the wounded warrior project are a tribute to his care about his peers and good people in general.

    Cornelissen M. with Mark G. of Islamorada, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Kevin was the best. Great communication before our outing, punctual, and he knew exactly where to go to catch the fish. This was so much fun! Highly recommend .

    Rebecca M. with Kevin G. of Corpus Christi, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    The four of us had a great time with Captain Nick. The boat was very clean, comfortable, easy to move around and enjoy the day. We caught real nice fish, Captain was very knowledgeable. I would recommend Captain Nick and would use him again.

    Ken C. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent guide. Worked hard to get us into the fish. Caught over 40 fish. Having snapper and trout for dinner!

    Unknown U. with Ron B. of Islamorada, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had an excellent time with Captain Mike. He not only takes you to where the fish are but educates you on how to fish for a particular species. Very kind and very knowledgeable. II wish I could give him more than 5 STARS. I will definitely use Mike as my future guide.

    Tim S. with Mike C. of Galveston, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip with Capt. Billy! My kids loved it.

    J B. with Billy P. of Flagler Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Travis is the expert I have been lookin for around Aransas pass for years. Conditions did not play to our favor, yet he still put us on fish. Fountain of knowledge when it comes to targeting and developing a pattern in the flats. I will fish with Travis as long as hes in business 🤙🏼

    Derek M. with Travis P. of Rockport, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Great time fishing with Travis! He'll find the fish for you!

    Bradley H. with Travis P. of Rockport, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    We had a wonderful time. Frank was an excellent guide. Hope to do it again soon!!

    Charles G. with Frank D. of Grand Isle, Louisiana

  • ★★★★★
    We had a nice experience with Captain Todd.

    Olga L. with Todd V. of New Smyrna Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had great time with Capt. Nick. Had us on fish all day long! Caught Reds, Trout and Snook. Highly recommended!!

    Kenneth K. with Nick K. of Holmes Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had great time with Capt. Nick. Had us on fish all day long! Caught Reds, Trout and Snook. Highly recommended!!

    Kenneth K. with Nick K. of Holmes Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great experience! Caught my limit!

    Mark B. with Brian P. of Ingleside, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Capt Tommy and Capt Jason took us on an excellent fishing adventure. Inspite of Mother nature tossing in challenging Bay conditions. The team took us in a variety of waters that we could fish. We had lots of hook ups with Redfish and Black Drum. The trip was worth every minute. We created core memories. Thank you gentlemen. We hope to see you again soon.

    Michael K. with Tommy S. of Rockport, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    It was awesome!! We’re already trying to figure out our next trip with him!! He knows his way around the coast line for sure, very pleasant and patient with us. Definitely hooked us in!! We caught red drum and black drum!! Need to book with Travis at Captainexperiences.com

    Felicia P. with Travis P. of Rockport, Texas

Cities

What's biting?

View Speckled Trout Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re licensed, insured and vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick our Damn Good Guides, and our network spans all across the country and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Speckled Trout Trips