As of November 16, 2024, the fishing scene along the Texas Gulf Coast is buzzing with activity. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.
### Weather and Tides
The water temperature is hovering around the upper 70s to low 80s across various bays and lakes. Expect a mild day with temperatures in the mid-70s, though a forecasted north wind may bring some cooler air and choppy conditions. Tides are fluctuating between super high and average low, which can affect fish behavior.
### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise today is at around 6:45 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 5:15 PM, giving you ample daylight to fish.
### Fish Activity
The bull redfish run is in full force, particularly around the Galveston jetties and along the rock structures. Redfish are abundant everywhere, with good catches reported in Trinity Bay, Galveston Bay, and West Galveston Bay. Speckled trout are active in areas like West Galveston Bay, where birds are working over smaller specs and sand trout. Black drum, croakers, sand trout, and even some sharks and stingrays are also being caught.
### Hot Spots
- **Galveston Jetties**: This area is producing a lot of bull redfish and other species like black drum and speckled trout.
- **Trinity Bay**: Focus on grass lines where nervous bait is present. Imitation shrimp lures under popping corks and Gulp Shrimp are working well here.
- **West Galveston Bay**: Back lakes and coves are yielding better-sized speckled trout, while Chocolate Bayou and the bay itself are producing decent numbers of speckled trout and redfish over shell.
### Best Lures and Bait
- Live shrimp under a popping cork is a top choice for speckled trout and redfish across many areas.
- Imitation shrimp lures, such as those under popping corks with 12-inch leaders, are effective in Trinity Bay.
- Gulp Shrimp and jig heads with Wac Attack and Deadly Dudley tails in lighter colors are also producing good results.
- For flounder, jigs rigged with 3.5-inch soft plastics and live mullet are recommended.
- Cut bait and cracked crab are working well for bull redfish and black drum in areas like Texas City.
### Additional Tips
- Be mindful of the tidal changes and adjust your fishing strategy accordingly.
- With the north wind forecasted, be prepared for slightly cooler and choppier conditions.
- Remember that flounder are catch and release only through December 14.
Get out there and enjoy the great fishing the Texas Gulf Coast has to offer