can any point me to a good offshore experience on the gulf coast near galveston? i was interested in a party boat but read horrible reviews. too crowded, lots of driving and little time fishing. some of the charters are reasonably priced if you had enough people. can anyone give me some tips?

I suggest Port A. Deep Sea headquarters.

Welcome to TFF, btw !

You might try underwater experditions (the big E)

Capt. Eugene of texas offshore charters is one of the best private charters out of the Galveston area.

http://www.texasoffshorecharters.com/index.html

I've used Capt Leaf Potter out of Freeport since 2000. Also Capt Kevin Martin down there which used to work under Leaf and has gone out on his own now. Here are the links:

Rob

http://texassaltwaterfishingguide.com/

http://www.surfsidebeachcharters.com/