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Hardhead Sea Catfish Fishing with Capt Stephen Boriskie
Hardhead Sea Catfish Inshore in Port O'Connor
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The Hardhead Sea Catfish belongs to the order Siluriformes and family Ariidae. It typically measures between 10 and 28 inches in length, with a weight range from 1 to 12 lbs. Habitat: inshore waters along the Gulf Coast. - Also known as Saltwater Catfish or simply Hardhead. - One of four species under the Ariopsis genus. - Primarily associated with the Gafftopsail Catfish in Gulf waters.
Guided Fishing Trip by Guide Capt Stephen Boriskie in December
Meet your Guide Capt Stephen Boriskie
- Port O’Connor inshore fishing, floundering, ducks
Summary
Guide Capt Stephen Boriskie of Mid Coast Outfitters POC on Saturday November offers productive inshore fishing around Port O'Connor targeting hardhead sea catfish, redfish, and speckled trout. This extended half day guided fishing trip runs from 7am to 1pm using drift fishing and live bait techniques in the productive inshore waters. The charter accommodates 1-4 anglers with optional spots for additional guests, perfect for families and beginners looking to experience Port O'Connor's diverse inshore bite. All rods, reels, and tackle are provided by the captain, with live bait available at market price when conditions allow. The inshore waters around Port O'Connor offer excellent structure and varying depths that consistently produce mixed bags throughout the seasons, making this a reliable choice for anglers seeking that classic Texas coast fishing experience.
Fishing Charter with Capt Stephen Boriskie – Rates & Booking
Guide Capt Stephen Boriskie of Mid Coast Outfitters POC on Saturday November runs this extended half day inshore fishing charter from 7am to 1pm for $800, accommodating 1-4 anglers with optional 5th or 6th guest spots at $125 each. This licensed guide provides all rods, reels, and tackle, with live bait available at market price when possible. The six-hour charter targets hardhead sea catfish, redfish, black drum, and speckled trout using drift fishing and bottom fishing techniques. Deposits are non-refundable, and morning fog may affect trip duration for safety reasons. Book online or call to reserve your spot on these productive Port O'Connor inshore waters.
Highlights of Port O'Connor Inshore Fishing Charter for Speckled Trout, Redfish and Black Drum
This extended half day adventure gives you six solid hours on Port O'Connor's inshore waters, where the variety of structure and depths creates perfect conditions for targeting multiple species. The trip uses proven techniques like drift fishing and live bait fishing that consistently produce results in these waters. You'll work the productive flats and channels where hardhead sea catfish, redfish, and speckled trout feed regularly.
The charter welcomes beginners, families, and experienced anglers alike, with the captain providing guidance on working baits effectively. Port O'Connor's inshore fishing stays productive year-round, and the longer session gives you plenty of time to dial in on the bite and put together a solid mixed bag.
Local Species Insights: Hardhead Sea Catfish
Hardhead sea catfish are abundant in Port O'Connor's inshore waters, where they feed along sandy bottoms and around structure throughout the day. These hardy fish respond well to bottom fishing techniques using cut bait or live shrimp, making them a reliable target when other species are finicky. In November, hardhead catfish remain active in the warmer inshore waters around Port O'Connor, often providing steady action when targeting redfish and trout. While they're not typically kept for the table due to their strong flavor, they offer good sport on light tackle and help fill out a mixed bag during slower periods.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your six-hour charter departs at 7am and returns by 1pm, giving you the prime morning bite when inshore species are most active. The captain provides a fully equipped boat with all rods, reels, and tackle needed for successful inshore fishing. Live bait is available at market price when conditions allow, though the captain carries a selection of proven artificials and cut baits. The boat comfortably handles 1-4 anglers, with space for up to 6 guests total. Safety equipment is provided, and the captain monitors weather conditions closely to ensure a safe and productive trip on Port O'Connor's inshore waters.
Fishing in Port O'Connor: Hardhead Sea Catfish
The Hardhead Sea Catfish (Ariopsis felis) is a common inshore species belonging to the order Siluriformes and family Ariidae. Also known as Saltwater Catfish or simply Hardhead, this hardy fish is one of four species under the Ariopsis genus and is closely associated with the Gafftopsail Catfish in Gulf Coast waters. In Port O'Connor waters this November, hardhead catfish provide consistent action for anglers targeting mixed bags on the inshore flats.
Hardhead Sea Catfish Overview
Hardhead sea catfish are abundant throughout the Gulf of Mexico's inshore waters, where they serve as both predator and prey in the coastal ecosystem. Anglers value them for their willingness to bite and their role in keeping action steady when other species are less cooperative. Their hardy nature and year-round presence make them a reliable target for charter fishing operations.
Hardhead Sea Catfish Habitat and Distribution
These catfish inhabit shallow inshore waters, bays, and estuaries along the Gulf Coast from Florida to Mexico. Around Port O'Connor, they're commonly found over sandy and muddy bottoms, near oyster reefs, and in the deeper channels of the bay system. They tolerate a wide range of salinities and temperatures, making them one of the most adaptable inshore species.
Hardhead Sea Catfish Size and Weight
Hardhead sea catfish typically range from 10 to 28 inches in length, with weights between 1 and 12 pounds. Most fish caught in Port O'Connor waters fall in the 12-18 inch range, though larger specimens are occasionally landed in deeper bay waters and near passes.
Hardhead Sea Catfish Diet and Behavior
These opportunistic feeders consume crabs, shrimp, small fish, worms, and organic debris from the bottom. They're most active during dawn and dusk but will feed throughout the day, especially on overcast days or in deeper water. Hardhead catfish often school in large numbers, so finding one usually means more are nearby.
Hardhead Sea Catfish Spawning Season
Spawning occurs from late spring through early fall in warmer Gulf waters. Males carry fertilized eggs in their mouths for several weeks, a behavior called mouthbrooding. During spawning season, they may be found in slightly deeper waters but return to shallow feeding areas afterward.
Hardhead Sea Catfish Fishing Techniques
Bottom fishing with cut bait, live or dead shrimp, and small crabs produces the best results. Use circle hooks to reduce deep hooking, and fish near structure or drop-offs where they congregate. Light to medium tackle works well, as these fish don't make long runs but can provide steady pulling power. In November around Port O'Connor, anglers find them active in 3-8 feet of water near oyster reefs and channel edges.
Hardhead Sea Catfish Is It Good to Eat?
While edible, hardhead catfish have a strong, muddy flavor that many anglers find unappealing. The meat is high in protein but requires careful preparation to remove the strong taste. Most anglers practice catch and release with hardhead catfish, keeping them only when other species aren't biting and fresh bait is needed.
Hardhead Sea Catfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for hardhead sea catfish?
A: Cut mullet, dead shrimp, and small pieces of crab work exceptionally well. They're not picky eaters and will take most natural baits fished on or near the bottom.
Q: Where can I find hardhead sea catfish near Port O'Connor?
A: Look for them around oyster reefs, channel edges, and sandy flats in 3-10 feet of water. They're particularly common near the jetties and in Matagorda Bay.
Q: Is hardhead sea catfish good to eat?
A: They're edible but have a strong, muddy flavor that requires special preparation. Most anglers release them or use them for bait when targeting other species.
Q: When is the best time to catch hardhead sea catfish?
A: They bite year-round but are most active during dawn and dusk. Overcast days and incoming tides often produce the best action in shallow water.
More species you can explore on this trip
Mid Coast Outfitters POC Available Trips
Other customer memories from this trip
Ready for some extended fishing action in Port O'Connor? This 6-hour trip gives you plenty of time to cast lines and soak up the coastal scenery. We'll head out at 7am and fish until 1pm, hitting prime spots for inshore species. The boat comfortably fits up to 4 anglers, with room to add 2 more if you've got a bigger group. Don't worry about gear - your captain provides quality rods, reels and tackle. Live bait can be arranged when available (just pay market price). It's a great option if you want more fishing time than a quick half-day, but can't commit to a full 8 hours on the water. Perfect for families, friends, or anyone looking to maximize their chances of reeling in some good catches. You'll get to experience more of Port O'Connor's rich fishing grounds and increase your odds of landing that trophy fish.
