November Fishing in Galveston

November Fishing in Galveston on Our Luxury Fishing Yacht:

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Cooler Waters, Hotter Action

As November rolls in, Galveston’s fishing scene transforms with the change of the seasons. Cooler temperatures bring a welcome relief from the heat, making it an ideal time to be out on the water. While the fall redfish run starts to wind down, plenty of fishing opportunities remain, including prime speckled trout as they take advantage of the cooler, deeper waters.

Whether you’re drifting through the bays or casting from the jetties, November is a fantastic time for anglers looking to enjoy crisp mornings and steady catches. Pack your gear, and let’s make the most of Galveston’s fall fishing before winter arrives!

Weather: Cool Breezes and Steady Waters

November brings a refreshing change to Galveston’s fishing conditions, with cooler days that are perfect for time on the water. Daytime temperatures typically hover in the 70s, while mornings and evenings can dip into the 50s, offering crisp, cool air that’s a relief after the summer heat. Offshore waters continue to cool, though they remain comfortable for fishing, with milder winds and a gentle breeze creating generally smooth conditions.

While the threat of tropical storms diminishes as hurricane season officially ends on November 30, it’s still wise to keep an eye on late-season weather developments. On most days, though, anglers can enjoy clear skies and calm seas, making for an enjoyable and productive fishing trip. As the water temperatures drop, fish are more likely to move into deeper waters, but the overall conditions make November a prime time to get out and take advantage of Galveston’s fishing scene.

Cold fronts significantly impact weather conditions, bringing not only a drop in temperature but also strong winds and rain. This change in weather can be advantageous for fishing if timed correctly.

Before the front arrives, the dropping pressure creates feeding frenzies, causing fish to feed aggressively, much to an angler’s delight. As the front passes, leaving behind strong winds and currents, larger red drums thrive, feeding more actively and being caught in greater numbers; they relish the inclement weather.

Flounder begin their offshore migration, and after each front, they are pushed to move in large numbers and feed aggressively as they pass through the area. The strong northern winds of the front will drive water out of the marshes and bays, forcing fish into deeper pockets, flounder to migrate offshore, and speckled trout to seek waters with higher salinity near the jetties. 

Although cold fronts do not provide better weather conditions for anglers, they play a significant role in fish activity and can be leveraged to catch that trophy fish.

What’s Biting: November’s Best Catches

Fishing November in Galveston

November marks a transition in Galveston’s fishing scene with a variety of species still active as the waters cool. While the fall redfish run begins to taper off, you can still find bull reds lingering around deeper channels and near the jetties. These fish remain hungry and are a rewarding target for anglers willing to put in the time.

Redfish are present inshore throughout the year. In the cooler fall months, they gather in large schools to feed in the marshes’ back lakes. When the water is low, it’s a magnificent spectacle for anglers to observe these sizable fish feeding in great numbers, with their humps and tails visible above the water, a behavior known as “tailing.”

The flounder migration hits its peak as they navigate through cuts and channels to the open sea. This journey requires a significant amount of energy, prompting them to feed continuously until they reach deeper waters. During this phase, they are particularly vulnerable, allowing anglers to catch them in large quantities with minimal effort. However, from November through December, harvesting flounder is prohibited. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department enforces a closure of the flounder fishery from November 1st to December 14th, reducing the usual daily bag limit from five to zero. Nevertheless, this restriction shouldn’t deter you; there are still many other delicious fish available for catching.

Speckled trout are one of the highlights of November as the cooler temperatures make them more active throughout the day. Look for them in the bays and around marshy shorelines where they’re often feeding on shrimp and small baitfish. Drift fishing with live shrimp or soft plastics can produce great results for those targeting these feisty fish.

With these species in play, November offers plenty of opportunities for anglers to enjoy a successful day on the water, whether you’re chasing the last of the redfish or targeting speckled trout.

Top Spots: Where to Cast Your Line in November

November brings cooler waters to Galveston, changing where fish are most likely to bite. For the best action this month, focus on a few key areas where fish are on the move and ready to strike.

  • Bays and Marshes: Speckled trout and red drum both thrive in the cooler waters of Galveston’s bays and marshes during November. These areas are perfect for drift fishing or casting live shrimp and soft plastics. Look for trout along grassy shorelines, drop-offs, and areas where tidal currents bring baitfish into the shallows.
  • Oyster reefs: These locations are excellent for targeting predatory fish all year round, particularly during the cooler months. Like any structure, oyster reefs offer a sanctuary for bait and smaller fish, creating an ideal hunting ground for predators. Additionally, as mornings transition into afternoons during these months, the sun warms the reefs, providing the warmer waters that both bait and predatory fish gravitate towards, thus offering an optimal environment for them to flourish.
  • Jetties and Passes: As bull redfish begin their migration to deeper waters, the jetties and passes remain a prime location to target lingering bull reds. Casting live bait or using bottom rigs with fresh-cut mullet, crab, shad, or even sand trout (which reds love) can yield great results in these areas. In addition to black drum, while they may not be as sought-after as their cousin the red drum, they are still an exhilarating catch and offer a fun fight. Known as “big uglies” when they grow large, black drum over 30 inches must be released, but they provide a formidable challenge. Not only are they thrilling to catch and release, but black drum are also delicious and make for excellent table fare.
  • Deeper Channels: With dropping temperatures, many species, including redfish, start to shift towards deeper channels. These channels act as transition zones where fish gather before heading offshore. Try bottom fishing with live bait or soft plastics to attract fish lurking in these deeper waters.
  • Surf Zones: The cooler conditions make surf fishing a great option in November. Redfish, black drum, whiting and other species can be caught close to shore as they move through the surf in search of baitfish. A sturdy rod live shrimp or fresh-cut bait will help you reach the fish from the beach and bring in some impressive catches.

Each of these spots offers a unique fishing experience in November, making it easy to find success whether you’re casting from shore or exploring Galveston’s waterways by boat. With the right bait and a little patience, these top spots will deliver some of the best fishing action of the season.

Best Fishing Times: Get the Most Out of Your Day

In November, timing is everything when it comes to fishing success in Galveston. As the weather cools, the best fishing windows shift slightly, offering great opportunities for those who plan their trips around the changing conditions.

Early Mornings:
November mornings can be chilly, with temperatures starting in the 50s. But as the sun rises and warms the water, fish become more active, especially speckled trout in the bays and marshes. The first few hours of daylight are prime for catching trout and redfish, particularly around grassy shorelines and drop-offs where baitfish gather.

Midday Warm-Ups:
As the day progresses, water temperatures stabilize, making the late morning to early afternoon hours a great time to fish. This is especially true for deeper channels and passes, where fish like bull reds gather. These hours are perfect for bottom fishing with live bait, as the fish are more likely to be feeding actively.

Galveston fishing trips November

Late Afternoons:
The cooling water of late afternoon can trigger another burst of activity. This is an excellent time to fish the surf zones or jetties, where redfish and trout may move closer to shore as they chase baitfish. Focus on fishing during the incoming tide for the best results, as it brings fresh bait and encourages fish to feed closer to the shorelines.

Tidal Movements:
Regardless of the time of day, fishing around tidal changes is key. Both the incoming and outgoing tides can stir up baitfish and trigger feeding frenzies among redfish, trout, and more. Pay attention to tide charts and plan your outings around these shifts to maximize your chances of landing a catch.

With the cooler temperatures and changing fish behaviors, November offers long windows of opportunity for anglers to find success throughout the day. By targeting these key times, you’ll be able to make the most of your time on the water and bring home a rewarding catch.

Fishing Tips for November Success

November’s cooler waters and shifting fish patterns require a few adjustments to your approach, but with the right strategy, you can enjoy some of the best fishing of the year in Galveston. Here are some tips to help you reel in success this month:

  1. Gear Up for the Cooldown: With species like redfish and speckled trout still in play, make sure you have a variety of gear on hand. A medium to heavy-action rod is ideal for targeting bull reds in deeper waters. For speckled trout, a lighter setup with a sensitive tip helps to feel those gentle bites as they strike.
  2. Choose the Right Bait: In November, live bait like shrimp and mullet are highly effective for a range of species. For speckled trout, try using live shrimp under a popping cork to draw attention in the bays. Redfish respond well to fresh cut bait like mullet, fished along the bottom near passes and channels. Soft plastics such as paddletails in natural colors can also be great for mimicking the smaller baitfish that are common this time of year. Remember, fish rely heavily on their sense of sound and smell, particularly in murky water. Employing a scented lure, or adding a scent spray or gel to your lures, along with a chatter weight, can be incredibly effective, especially when the fish are hesitant to bite.
  3. Focus on Structure: As the water cools, fish often seek out structure like drop-offs, oyster reefs, bulk heads, ledges, and underwater channels where they can find both food and shelter. Target these areas when fishing for trout or redfish, and work your bait slowly along the bottom to entice bites.
  4. Stay Flexible with the Weather: With November’s unpredictable weather, it’s important to keep an eye on conditions and adjust your plans as needed. If the wind picks up, consider shifting to more protected areas like the bays or marshes where the water remains calmer. And always be prepared for a sudden drop in temperature — packing extra layers can keep you comfortable as you wait for that big bite.

By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your November fishing trips in Galveston. Whether you’re aiming for a trophy redfish or a limit of speckled trout, a little preparation can go a long way in turning a good day on the water into a great one.

Why Book with Up Above Adventures in November?

November is a fantastic time to experience the rich fishing opportunities that Galveston has to offer, and booking a trip with Up Above Adventures ensures you make the most of it. Here’s why a guided charter with us is the perfect way to enjoy this prime fishing season:

1. Expert Guides Who Know November’s Hotspots

Our experienced guides understand the changes that come with the cooler weather and know exactly where to find the best bites. Whether you’re looking to target the last of the bull redfish or or focus on speckled trout during this prime season, we’ll take you to the most productive areas so you can maximize your catch.

2. Quality Gear and Equipment Provided

No need to worry about having the right tackle or bait — Up Above Adventures provides top-notch gear suited for November’s conditions. From heavy rods for big reds to lighter setups perfect for speckled trout, we’ve got you covered. Our crew also keeps the bait fresh and knows which setups work best for each species at this time of year.

3. Enjoy a Stress-Free Day on the Water

November’s weather can be unpredictable, but with Up Above Adventures, you can relax and focus on the fishing while we handle the logistics. Our team monitors the tides, tracks the latest weather updates, and adjusts plans as needed to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience, no matter what the conditions bring.

4. Family-Friendly and Customizable Trips

Looking for a family outing or a solo fishing adventure? We offer trips that can be tailored to your needs, whether it’s a half-day trip focused on speckled trout or a full-day charter targeting multiple species. Our goal is to create an unforgettable experience that meets your fishing goals and provides memories to last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a fishing charter include?

Our fishing charters come with all the essentials for salt water fishing — rods, reels, bait, and tackle — so you can enjoy a hassle-free fishing experience.

Will I need a fishing license?

Yes, in Texas, anglers aged 17 and older are required to have a valid fishing license when fishing in public waters.

Which fish are common catches in November?

While flounder season is closed until December 15, November is a great time to catch redfish, speckled trout, sheepshead, and stingrays. For those heading into deeper waters, you may encounter king mackerel, blacktip sharks, and even larger species like hammerheads.

Do you provide food during November charters?

Meals aren’t part of the standard charter package, but you can add this option if you’d like. We offer chef-prepared meals for an additional fee.

How is safety ensured on board?

Our vessel is equipped with all required safety gear, and our crew is well-trained in first aid and emergency response, prioritizing your safety throughout the trip.

Can I use my own fishing equipment?

Absolutely, you’re welcome to bring along your personal fishing gear. However, we do provide everything you’ll need for your fishing adventure.

Is it customary to tip the crew?

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Generally, customers tip around 20% of the charter cost for good service, as a way of showing thanks for the crew’s dedication to making the trip enjoyable and safe.

With Up Above Adventures, you’ll have everything you need for a successful and enjoyable fishing trip in November. Let us guide you to the best fishing spots, provide you with top-tier equipment, and help you land that catch of a lifetime.


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