Fishing on Galveston Island: A Full Guide

Located less than an hour away from Houston, Galveston Island, Texas offers some of the most convenient year-round fishing on the Gulf Coast. There are many types of fish to catch, making this a popular fishing experience for novices and those with heaps of experience.

Whether you’re planning an adults-only trip, a family-friendly one, or are just looking for something unique to do during your vacation, this guide has you covered.

For those seeking inshore fishing or want to head out into the Gulf of Mexico for some offshore fishing, this guide will help you plan your dream fishing trip.


 What Fish Can I Catch in Galveston?collage of families fishing on galveston beach and galveston bay

Galveston’s nutrient-rich blue waters offer a wide variety of habitats for growing and adult marine species. With seagrass beds and salt marshes, oyster reefs, natural and artificial reefs, and miles of deep open water – we’ve got the fish you’re looking for!

Check out the Texas Parks & Wildlife  weekly fishing report to see what’s being caught on the beach, in East Galveston Bay, West Galveston Bay, and over the San Luis Pass towards Freeport and Surfside.

Drop in for a sneak peek with the Galveston Fishing Pier's (91st Street) live webcam.

Galveston anglers can look forward to catching a huge range of fish. Some of the most common include:

  • Tarpon

  • Flounder

  • Speckled trout

  • Amberjack

  • Catfish

  • Mahi Mahi

  • Cobia

  • Black drum

  • Kingfish

  • Spanish mackerel

  • Red snapper

Shark fishing is also possible in Galveston during the late spring and summer months if you’re looking for a  deep-sea fishing adventure.


 

Where Can I Fish in Galveston TX?

Our favorite spot is right off the back deck of a canal or bay vacation rental, but Galveston offers a variety of other nearshore and jetty fishing options as well! You can surf fish or crab right on the beach, too!

Technically fishing is allowed from any of our Galveston beaches. That means you have your pick of the litter when choosing where to go but do keep in mind that likely they won’t be your favorite spots to cast a line in the summer or weekends when more people flock to the shores.

Our other favorite Galveston Bay fishing spots include:

61st Street Fishing Pier

The 61st Street Fishing Pier offers half-price admission for late-night fishing, and discounts for children, seniors, and angling enthusiasts with a military ID. They also offer full rigs, rod rentals, and bait (frozen shrimp, squid, or finger mullet).

Galveston Fishing Pier on 91st Street

The Galveston Fishing Pier, located at 91st Street, also offers gear rental. Pier passes are good through 5 a.m. the following day, and kids ages 6-12, seniors, students, and military or civil servants with ID are eligible for a discounted rate. Have people in your group who aren't interested in trying their luck with a line? Check out the bike and surfboard rental options, or Jimmy's on the Pier, a casual restaurant located right over the water on the pier!

Galveston Island State Park - beach & bay

This is a good spot for saltwater fishing from the beach without a license. Look out for redfish (bull reds) and speckled trout here. There are also three kayak put-ins if you’d like to add an element of adventure to your fishing trip.

San Luis Pass

If you try your luck surf fishing at the San Luis Pass be sure to pay attention to the signage; there are strong currents that can easily become dangerous.


Do I Need a Fishing License in Galveston?

Yes — Texas Fishing License is required to fish in Galveston. You need it to take fish, mussels, clams, crayfish, or other aquatic life in the public waters of Texas.

Youth under the age of 17 do not need a license to fish in Texas. However, per Texas Parks & Wildlife (TPWD), if they wish to retain a red drum over the maximum length, they will need to purchase an Exempt Angler Tag.

You can purchase a fishing license at local retailers, including:

  • Academy Sports - 4523 Fort Crockett Blvd.

  • Walmart – 6702 Seawall Blvd.

  • West End Marina – 21706 Burnet Drive

Fishing in Texas State Parks like Galveston Island State Park doesn’t require a license (park entry fees still apply). All other fishing regulations, such as length and bag limits still apply — so make sure you are familiar with the current guidelines. Find more details here.

FUN FACT: The first Saturday in June each year is Free Fishing Day state-wide! Fish recreationally without any licenses or endorsements – it’s a great way to get your friends or family to try out this fun sport!


Where are Galveston’s Boat Launches and Marinas?

There are several marinas and boat launches located on Galveston Island: Waterman Marina & Bait Camp, West End Marina, and Jamail Bay Park are all open to the public.

Waterman Marina & Bait Camp

14306 Stewart Road - at Pirates Cove

Located within walking distance from several of our bayfront vacation homes and less than two miles from the Sand `N Sea office, island visitors will love this full-service marina and bait camp with daily, weekend & weekly boat slip rates. Waterman's Restaurant is a popular West End dining spot and a great way to wrap up a day on the water.

West End Marina

21706 Burnet Drive - at Sea Isle

Stop by the fully stocked general store and then hit the full-service bait shop (frozen and live bait) for snacks for everyone on your fishing adventure! This marina has four-ton lifts, electricity, water supply & marine-grade fuel available. They also offer two dining options — the casual Sandbar Grille and the full-service West End Restaurant.

Jamail Bay Park

1600 61st Street

Overlooking Offatts Bayou, on the west side of 61st Street as you drive towards the Seawall, this recent addition to the public parks on Galveston Island offers free truck and trailer parking, a boat ramp, and a small landscaped park with covered picnic tables & barbecue grills. Open 24 hours.


Best Fishing Charters & Guide Services in Galveston

Galveston offers a variety of local fishing charters, with captains & crew as passionate about fishing as you are! From deep sea full-day trips to a few hours in the bay, there's a Galveston fishing charter option that's sure to lure you in! Book your charter today with one of these local experts and get ready for the catch of a lifetime!


Get Ready for a Galveston Fishing Trip to Remember

Galveston TX offers some of the best leisure and sport fishing on the Gulf Coast, and you’re pretty much guaranteed a great catch at any time of year.

Sand `N Sea’s Galveston canal and bayfront vacation rentals are perfect for fishing, boating, birding, and more. Our team of Galveston locals would love to help you reel in the perfect island vacation!