Galveston Close-Offshore Fishing Charters
These trips offer anglers of all experience levels the chance to enjoy the thrill of offshore fishing while targeting some of the Gulf’s finest fish. The Texas state waters off Galveston provide a diverse and exciting fishing experience, with a variety of species to target depending on the season and weather conditions. From spring through fall, anglers can expect great fishing for sharks, jacks, king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, redfish, and more. As summer and fall approach, the chances of landing bigger sharks increase, along with prime opportunities for king mackerel. Plus, throughout the year, there’s always the chance to reel in state water red snapper, ensuring a rewarding experience no matter when you go.
Target Species
From March to October, we’re targeting sharks at various locations across the Gulf.
The most exciting time for shark and cobia fishing in Galveston is from mid-July to the end of August. During this period, we head offshore to fish behind shrimp boats. We pull up, get the baits in the water, and you’ll be hooked into a big fight almost immediately. As the inshore season ramps up, there are times when we’re sight-casting to sharks and cobia, making for an incredible fishing experience.
For the rest of the year, we head out to rigs, targeting snapper, redfish, jacks, kingfish, mackerel, and other iconic Gulf species.
Our fishing methods vary depending on the time of year, but we typically cast fresh dead bait behind culling shrimp boats and troll around state water rigs to maximize our chances.
Where We Go
On our Galveston Close-Offshore Fishing Charters, we head up to 9 miles offshore, past the Galveston Jetties, and several miles off the beachfront. We’ll be drifting behind shrimp boats, searching for schooling baitfish, tying off to a nearby rig, or visiting the radio tower—all while targeting sharks, ling (cobia), jacks, kingfish, mackerel, and more.
When conditions allow, we’ll head to a close oil rig, anchor up, and bottom fish for snapper, redfish, and other species. Our approach depends on the weather, water conditions, and currents, but we’ll always focus on the most productive fishing based on what the conditions allow.
What's Included
We’ve got everything covered for you! When you arrive at Harborwalk Marina, the boat will be fueled, the rods rigged, and the cooler packed with ice. Your professional, USCG-certified captain will have the bait ready for your Galveston shark fishing trip and will be there to assist you every step of the way.
Safety is our top priority on our close offshore fishing charters. You can choose to be as hands-on or hands-off as you’d like when it comes to rigging bait and handling sharks and fish. We want you to capture that epic picture and memory, but we always prioritize safe handling throughout the experience.
What To Bring
Come prepared for the weather with comfortable clothing and sun protection. We’ll have a cooler stocked with ice, so bring your waters, snacks, lunch, and other beverages for the day. Your captain will contact you before your trip to provide more detailed information on what to bring, and we’re always here to answer any questions you may have.
Guests over 17 years old will need a Texas Saltwater Fishing License. If you need assistance ordering the proper license for your trip, don’t hesitate to reach out.
If you’re prone to seasickness, it’s best to take non-drowsy medication the night before and the morning of your trip for the best results.
Please note: We recommend not bringing valuables on board that you can’t afford to lose. We are not responsible for any items that may fall in the water, get wet, or be lost or damaged in any other way.
- SPF/UV resistant apparel
- Sunscreen
- Rain jacket (if forecasted)
- Hat & polarized sunglasses
- Seasickness medication
- Non-skid, rubber-sole shoes
- Camera
- Adult beverages are ok
- Layers for cool weather
- Cowboy Boots
- Work Boots
- Glass Bottles
- Fishing Tackle
- Bananas
Galveston Close-Offshore Fishing Charters FAQs
Have a question? We've got answers. If you do not see your question answered below, please do not hesitate to contact us.
From $1,200
Year Round
Other Trips
Galveston Tuna Fishing Charters (Overnight)
Galveston Deep-Sea Fishing Trips
Galveston Offshore Fishing
Galveston Red Snapper Fishing Charters
Galveston Shark Fishing Charters
Galveston Bay Fishing Charters
Galveston Boat Tours
