Redfish Holding Shallow | Trout Working Drains | East Galveston Bay
Surface Temp: 72°F
Water Clarity: Good
Location: East Bay – Crystal Beach, TX
Captain Jeff Brandon | Get the Net Guide Services
The first full week of November brought classic fall conditions — clear water, mild temps, and steady action in East Galveston Bay. Bait continues to move across the flats, and when you find active life, the redfish won’t be far behind.
Key Zones for Action
Slot reds have been cruising shallow grass lines in 12″–24″ of water, especially around indentations, drains, and points. These subtle structure changes are holding fish tight when bait is active. For trout, look a little deeper — 2 to 5 feet — where moving water around drains has been key. Out on the reefs, sand trout are stacked up, and a few bull reds have been keeping drags screaming for those targeting deeper shell.
What’s Working
The bite remains solid on artificial lures. Fish Smack popping corks paired with imitation shrimp or paddle tails on 12″–18″ leaders are producing consistent strikes. Weightless Deadly Dudley Rat Tails and WacAttack Flukes have been deadly over the grass when worked slow and steady. For trout, 1/8 oz jig heads with soft plastics are the ticket in the deeper drains.
Species Spotlight
- Redfish: Slot-sized fish tight to grass and current breaks.
- Speckled Trout: Keeper-size trout around 2–5 ft drains on tails.
- Sand Trout: Hot bite over reefs.
- Bull Reds: Scattered around deeper shell and reefs for those looking for a fight.
Seasonal Tips & Timing
Birds are still working over the Bay, offering easy clues for schooling fish. The upcoming front should cool things off a touch and shuffle fish positions, but the bite should stay strong. With lighter boat traffic now that fall is in full swing, it’s a great time to hit the water and plan your winter trips.
📞 Call or Text Capt. Jeff at (940) 393-6531
📍 Crystal Beach, TX – Stingaree Canal Launch
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