The month of May in South Texas ushers in warmer weather, long, sunny days and spectacular fishing in Baffin Bay. An inlet of the larger Laguna Madre, the bay is a productive fishery due to its low freshwater inflow and high water salinity. A large portion of Baffin Bay is covered in seagrass, while the other portions are blanketed in shoal grass with spotted rocky outcrops. This vegetation, along with the prevalent circular reefs, provides great habitat for the 37 species of fish. We checked in with our Ranch & Wildlife Manager, our wildlife biologists, local fishing charter captains and a couple fishy lessees to get the Spring Fishing report for Baffin Bay. To no surprise – the fishing is on fire. 

If you’re on the hunt for a trophy trout, now is the time. Captain Reanna DeLaCruz of Captain Reanna’s Baffin Bay Adventures reports reeling in 5 to 8-pound healthy female speckled trout with bellies full of baitfish. She recommends wading or drift fishing waist deep water along grass lines, drop offs and rock formations. Throw topwaters or a popping cork over a Gulp. As for Redfish, they seem to be closer to the bottom in muddy areas where the crustaceans are prevalent, in entrances to back lakes and over grass flats. The reds are hitting gold spoons and scented plastics over the grass flats. The Black drum are typically running in schools, so if you land a fish, send another cast in that same spot. In general, the early morning bite is good for nice trout and redfish along the grass lines in 3 feet of water. 

For the anglers who prefer fly fishing, the Baffin Bay habitat provides great opportunities for sight casting. The fish are reacting very well to well-placed flies, so be sure to practice your 30-40 feet casting, angles and presentation before getting on the bow of a boat or in the water. Baitfish, shrimp and crab patterns are all working well – sizes #4 and #6. 

We hope you take the time to get on the water this Spring. There’s no substitute for a warm breeze in your face and a little salt spray on your hands. If Baffin Bay is your choice of fishery, we hope this spring fishing report helps guide your day in the salt.