Texas Flounder Fishing in Galveston: Best Times, Hotspots, and Proven Tips
If you’re planning a saltwater fishing trip on the Texas Gulf Coast, flounder fishing in Galveston is a must-try experience. Known for their delicious taste and stealthy strikes, southern flounder are one of the most sought-after inshore species in Texas waters.
Why Galveston Is a Top Spot for Flounder
Galveston Bay is a rich estuary system where fresh and saltwater mix — the perfect habitat for flounder. Its network of shallow flats, marshes, channels, and jetties make it one of the best flounder fishing areas in the Lone Star State.
📍 Hotspots: San Luis Pass, Pelican Island Flats, Seawolf Park, and the Galveston Causeway
🎣 Common Methods: Jigging soft plastics, live mud minnows, or finger mullet
🛶 Access: Great for wade fishing, kayak fishing, and boaters
Best Time to Fish for Flounder in Galveston
The best time to catch flounder in Galveston is during the fall flounder run — from late October through November.
Each fall, as water temperatures drop below 70°F, flounder begin migrating from the bays and marshes out to the Gulf to spawn. This predictable movement creates an incredible window of opportunity for anglers to catch trophy-sized flounder in concentrated areas.
✅ Prime Season: Late October to Thanksgiving
✅ Best Tide: Moving tides — especially outgoing
✅ Best Time of Day: Early morning and late afternoon
Essential Flounder Fishing Gear
Rod & Reel: Medium-light spinning combo, 10–15 lb test
Best Bait: Live finger mullet, mud minnows, or Gulp! shrimp
Popular Lures: Curl-tail jigs, paddle tails, or bucktail jigs with chartreuse or white accents
Hook Set Tip: Wait 1–2 seconds before setting the hook — flounder inhale bait slowly
Texas Flounder Regulations (As of 2025)
Bag Limit: 5 flounder per person per day
Minimum Size: 15 inches
Special Closure: No gigging allowed Nov 1–Dec 14 (TPWD Fall Run Conservation)
👉 Always check TPWD’s current regulations before your trip.