For today, November 23, 2024, if you're planning to hit the waters of the Gulf of Mexico along the Texas coast, here's what you can expect:

First off, the weather is looking decent with water temperatures hovering around the upper 70s, but expect these to cool down with the forecasted north winds. Tides have been fluctuating between super high and average low tides, so be prepared to adjust your fishing spots accordingly.

Sunrise is at about 6:45 AM, and sunset will be around 5:15 PM, giving you a good window to get out there.

Fishing has been solid across various spots. In the Galveston area, redfish and black drum are plentiful. Captain David Dillman reports a fair bite on trout in and around structure using live shrimp. West Galveston Bay is a hot spot, especially in the back lakes and coves, where you can find better-sized speckled trout. Birds are active over smaller specs and sand trout, and Chocolate Bayou is producing decent numbers of speckled trout and redfish over shell[1].

At the jetties, particularly the north and south jetties near Texas City, redfish are biting well on shrimp, cut mullet, or skip jack. Silver spoons are also producing good results for redfish. Trout are fair with free-lined shrimp along the rocks, and black drum are good on shrimp as well. Mangrove snapper are also active on shrimp[1].

In Trinity Bay, redfish are still around grass lines where nervous bait is present. Imitation shrimp lures under popping corks with 12-inch leaders, as well as Gulp Shrimp, have been working very well. Jig heads with Wac Attack and Deadly Dudley tails in lighter colors are also effective, especially when fishing flooded grass[1].

For lures, imitation shrimp under popping corks, Gulp Shrimp, and jig heads with lighter-colored tails are your best bets. Live shrimp, cut mullet, and skip jack are excellent baits for redfish and other species.

Hot spots include the jetties near Texas City, West Galveston Bay, and Trinity Bay, especially around the grass lines and back lakes.

Remember, flounder are catch and release only through December 14, so be mindful of that regulation.

Get out there and enjoy the fishing – it's a great time to be on the water in Texas