Meet the fish
Gafftopsail catfish (Bagre marinus) uses Surf, passes, bay channels and open bottom. This is a field guide to habitat and planning, not a promise that the species will be present or legal to retain on a particular trip.
Season and movement
Often more active in warm water but possible across seasons
Where it fits around South Padre
Fish a bottom rig in a surf trough or channel while keeping line and discarded bait contained
Fishing approach
Circle hooks and a controlled leader reduce deep hooking and make dehooking safer Common starting offerings include Cut bait, shrimp and other scent-producing natural baits
Handling and current rules
The dorsal and pectoral spines can cause serious punctures. Use a purpose-built dehooker or pliers and never kick or leave the fish on sand Open the current Texas saltwater regulations before fishing, then check any federal season or protected-species rule that applies to the water and vessel. Conditions, seasons and limits can change after this guide is published.