Hello, I’m Captain Cliff. My journey began back in 1974 when, as a seventh grader, I started fishing in the Lower Laguna Madre. Before that, I honed my skills in East Texas freshwater fishing. One of the most influential mentors I had was Wade Dunkin from Harlingen, Texas. My earliest professional experience in hunting and fishing came through Harlingen National Bank’s Dial Dunkin and Associates, where I had the chance to fish across deep South Texas and Northern Mexico. The team I worked with were seasoned experts, and I was fortunate to learn from them. Teaching others to fish, especially children and newcomers, has always been a passion of mine, and it’s how I found my calling. Aside from fishing, I really enjoy cooking, and the sport is truly in my blood—sharing the joy of fishing with others is what drives me.
Whether you’re an experienced angler, a visitor seeking an authentic South Texas fishing experience, or just starting out, fishing with Captain Cliff offers an unforgettable adventure on the abundant Texan waters. I hold a US Coast Guard license as a six-pack charter captain and bring decades of fishing know-how to every trip. You can expect to target a wide variety of species such as Speckled Trout, Redfish, Flounder, Mangrove Snapper, Black Drum, Tarpon, Snook, Ladyfish, Spanish Mackerel, Kingfish, Cobia, Croaker, Whiting, Shark, and Mullet. Additionally, trips in the Brownsville Ship Channel allow us to pursue unique catches like Lookdown Fish, Filefish, and several other interesting species.
Many guests have shared their wonderful experiences fishing with me in South Padre Island. I strive to be patient and helpful to ensure everyone feels comfortable and enjoys their time on the water. The boat is spacious, well-maintained, and equipped to provide plenty of room for relaxation and fishing fun. Whether guiding you to the best spots or sharing knowledge about the fish we catch, I am dedicated to making your trip both successful and memorable.
One recent group of anglers was looking to catch Trout, and I was able to lead them there quickly. Their appreciation for my expertise and eagerness to share tips on landing the targeted species was truly rewarding. Another memorable outing included two dads with their seven-year-old children—the kids had an amazing experience catching fish and learning patiently from me. Moments like those are the heart of what I do, and guests often tell me they look forward to coming back again.
Guests often comment on the cleanliness and organization of my boat, as well as my professionalism and thorough knowledge of fishing techniques. Whether you are after a relaxing day on the water or an action-packed fishing trip, I welcome you aboard for an exciting time. If you find yourself in the area, I would be honored to guide your fishing adventure and help you create unforgettable memories.
You can cancel without any charges if you do so at least 14 days prior to your scheduled trip, and the amount will be refunded as credit to your account. If you cancel within 14 days of the trip, your deposit will be retained by the guide. For cancellations on the day of the trip or if you do not show up, the full trip cost will be billed to your card.
All necessary gear will be provided. However, we suggest bringing sunglasses, sunscreen, suitable clothing for the weather, and any additional items you may want for the trip.
Port Isabel offers an ideal starting point for bay fishing, making it a haven for inshore anglers thanks to its proximity to the Lower Laguna Madre and the Fort Brownsville Ship Channel. These waters are home to all the inshore species mentioned earlier, present throughout the year. Embarking on bay fishing excursions here provides an excellent opportunity to catch a variety of fish, including the chance to fill your limit with Trout and Redfish. While fishing, you can also enjoy scenic views of the iconic Port Isabel lighthouse from the water, enhancing the overall experience.
