Port O'Connor Fishing Guide
Port O'Connor sits at the meeting point of Matagorda Bay, Espiritu Santo Bay, and the Gulf — one of the most productive inshore fisheries on the Texas coast. Redfish, speckled trout, and flounder run year-round, offshore waters hold billfish and tuna, and the town's tournament calendar fills every summer weekend.
This guide covers what's biting each season, the tournaments worth planning a trip around, and the boat ramps and resources you'll use while staying in town. Bringing your boat? Moonlight Marsh has a rare 60-foot deep boat garage, commercial ice maker, and sleeps up to 10 — minutes from the Intracoastal Waterway.
Cast Your Line
Fishing Guide
Target Species
Redfish
The crown jewel of Matagorda Bay. Fall brings trophy bull reds migrating through the passes — sight-fishing in clear shallows is unforgettable.
Speckled Trout
Peak summer action under birds. Spring spawn offers consistent catches. Winter sight-fishing in gin-clear shallows is a local secret.
Flounder
The legendary "Flounder Run" sends fish stacking in channels. Gigging and wade fishing produce limits during the fall migration.
Black Drum
Spring brings aggressive drum to the flats alongside redfish. Excellent on crab and shrimp — great for family fishing trips.
Sheepshead
Winter's best-kept secret. Find them around jetties and structure. Excellent table fare and a fun challenge on light tackle.
Offshore
Blue marlin, sailfish, dorado, tuna, and wahoo offshore. Tarpon blitzes June through October along the beachfront.
Annual Fishing Tournaments
The Freeze Out
One of the toughest inshore tournaments on the Texas Coast. Top anglers brave winter conditions for redfish and trout in Matagorda Bay.
Saltwater Splash
Hosted by Oilfield Helping Hands at the Port O'Connor Community Center. A summer staple that draws anglers from across the Gulf Coast.
Lone Star Shootout
Invitational billfish tournament with boats departing from Port O'Connor. Known for big payouts, great format, and charitable contributions.
Possum Invitational
Long-running annual tournament and a Port O'Connor tradition. A fun, competitive weekend that brings the fishing community together.
Pescado Grande
Bay and offshore fishing tournament featuring multiple competition divisions. A late-summer favorite drawing teams from across the Texas Coast.
Borracho Pescador
Annual charity tournament benefiting the International Rett Syndrome Foundation and Texas Children's Research Hospital. Three days of great fishing for a great cause.
Plan Your Trip
Boat Launches
Multiple public boat ramps minutes from Moonlight Marsh with direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway and Matagorda Bay.
Charter & Guide Recommendations
Need a guide? We're plugged into the local fishing community and can recommend top-rated captains for inshore, offshore, or fly fishing trips tailored to your group. Just ask when you book.
Ice & Storage
Our commercial ice maker keeps your catch cold. The 60-foot boat garage provides secure storage for your gear and vessel.