Taking a family vacation to Padre on 6/26 and returning on 7/3. I got clearance from the High Command (wife) to take a couple bay fishing or deep sea trips.I havent fished either before and wanted to get some advice on what I should do based on your experiences. Maybe some guides or other services you would recommend. Thanks in advance.

Since you don't have the gear/tackle for s/w or the knowledge of locations I would recommend a bay fishing guide trip. You can go 1/2 day or full day. If the fish are biting then 1/2 day is usually enough to limit out. Mornings are usually best but not always. Select a guide and let him give a his input.

Offshore is my favorite but if you haven't been before I'd limit the trip. If you get sick they won't turn around and bring you back. Perhaps start out on an 8 hour trip and see how you do. If you're pretty certain that sea sickness won't be a problem then go for the gusto and do a 12 hour trip.

The party (head) boats will be the least expensive. A private charter will be more expensive but more productive. If you can hook up with some other fishermen then you can split the cost with them. If you know someone in the area with a seaworthy boat and all the gear then offer to by the gas and bait. Before going offshore I'd recommend checking the conditions. Wind is biggest cause of big seas. So if it's going to be windy (over 20 to 25 knots) then seas will usually be up to or greater than 5 feet which can make for an uncomfortable trip. If seas are predicted to under 3 feet then go, go, go. The gulf doesn't often get calmer than that.

thanks

A great guide is Capt. Noe Garza...check his website out, he always updates his pics... www.captnoegarza.com

If you're going to south padre call Capt. Tim Soem of the most reasonable prices around 956-873-1300Flatoutguide