I was born in Rio Grande City, Texas, in 1985 and raised in the Lower Rio Grande Valley, where I naturally embraced a love for the outdoors. From a very young age, I discovered my passion for hunting, calling, and shooting. Growing up and living in the South Texas region has given me the opportunity to develop and hone the knowledge and skills of an avid outdoorsman. Having had the privilege to help guide on several ranches has provided me with a deeper insight into the importance of predator control and wildlife management. For the past six years, I have been guiding fishing trips, specializing in wade fishing, drift fishing, bottom fishing, and flounder gigging. I also offer unique adventures with airboat excursions in brackish waters targeting alligator gar, redfish, and catfish. My experience and dedication ensure an unforgettable and successful fishing experience for all my clients. I devote the majority of my summers hitting the waters of the Lower Laguna Madre as a captain for my charter, Waist Deep Fishing. Unbelievable pleasureful experience, best guided trip we have EVER had. Excellent trip! The boys loved it as well as my dad! They haven't stopped talking about it! Super fun. Everyone enjoyed. Nice family time.
The initial payment made for this journey cannot be refunded unless the trip is cancelled due to weather conditions. If you cancel on the day of the trip or fail to show up, your card will be charged the total remaining amount.
We provide all rods, reels, and tackle for your convenience. However, we suggest you bring sunglasses, sunscreen, suitable clothing for the weather, and any personal gear you prefer to use during the trip.
Fishing the back bays of Port Mansfield in the brackish waters of the Lower Laguna Madre from an airboat offers a truly exhilarating experience. Thanks to the airboat’s unique ability to access shallow and hard-to-reach areas, anglers gain an advantage in exploring prime fishing spots. This versatility not only enhances the adventure but also increases the chances of catching a diverse array of fish species such as alligator gar, redfish, and catfish.
As the airboat glides effortlessly over shallow flats and marshy areas, powered by its robust engine, anticipation grows. Its capacity to navigate through dense vegetation and extremely shallow waters opens up access to nearly untouched fishing grounds, amplifying the opportunity to land impressive fish.
The main quarry in these waters is the formidable alligator gar. These prehistoric fish, known for their impressive size and strength, demand a strong tackle setup. The airboat positions itself in a calm, sheltered cove favored by alligator gar. With a heavy-duty line cast into the murky depths, anglers wait in suspense. When one finally strikes, the battle is intense. The stable platform of the airboat helps you maintain your footing while reeling in the powerful gar. Seeing its long, armored body and sharp-toothed jaws break the surface is a thrilling reward for the effort.
Afterward, the airboat heads toward the grassy edges and shallow flats, ideal feeding grounds for redfish. Redfish are popular among anglers for their aggressive strikes and spirited runs. The airboat’s quiet glide over shallow waters allows you to approach without disturbing the fish below. Watching for the redfish’s distinctive tailing behavior, you cast your line, ready for an exciting fight as the fish makes strong runs that challenge your skills.
Catfish are another key species found in the brackish waters. The airboat moves to deeper channels and muddy spots where catfish often feed. Using a bottom rig with bait like cut fish or shrimp, casts are made into these deeper waters. Catfish bites can come swiftly, delivering a robust fight as they pull against the current and your line. The airboat’s steady platform makes it easier to manage these feisty fighters as you bring them in.
Throughout the day, the airboat’s adaptability enables quick shifts between locations, maximizing your fishing opportunities. Covering more ground allows the exploration of diverse habitats, each supporting different species and presenting unique challenges. The peaceful surroundings of the back bays—framed by salt marshes and mangroves—enhance the experience. The vibrant ecosystem teems with life, and occasional sights like diving birds or splashing fish add to the natural ambiance.
Fishing from an airboat in Port Mansfield’s back bays combines the excitement of fast travel with the tranquility of nature and the thrill of the catch. This dynamic method of fishing provides access to the best spots, giving anglers an edge in their pursuit of alligator gar, redfish, and catfish. Whether you’re a seasoned fisher or new to the sport, this unique airboat experience in the Lower Laguna Madre offers an unforgettable adventure filled with challenging catches and the breathtaking beauty of Texas’ coastal wilderness.
