Saltwater Fishing Off Galveston Bay

In an exhilarating display of saltwater fishing prowess, Captain Derek York of Spot Stalker Guide Service and Paul Fuzinski of Aptitude Outdoors embarked on a memorable journey into the heart of Galveston Bay. Their adventure, set against the backdrop of the Gulf of Mexico, was a testament to the thrill and unpredictability of fishing in these rich waters.

The day's mission was clear yet ambitious: to seek out the elusive triple tail, cobia, and perhaps even tangle with a shark. Setting off 12 miles from the Galveston Jetties, they navigated towards offshore structures and rigs, prime habitats for their targeted species.

Their fishing expedition kicked off with an immediate success. Within mere seconds at the first spot, a colossal 50 lb cobia, also known as ling, made its presence known. Utilizing live bait, Captain York expertly enticed the cobia, leading to a swift and exciting catch. This rapid success set a high bar for the day, showcasing the expertise and readiness of the duo.

As they continued fishing, hopping from rig to rig, the initial euphoria of the cobia catch gave way to a tense anticipation. Although no more cobias graced them with their presence, the waters had more in store. A shark rig, cast into the depths, suddenly sprang to life, signaling another battle was about to commence. Paul took the lead, wrestling with the unseen fish, a battle of wills between man and nature. The catch? A formidable blacktip shark, showcasing its might and agility through breathtaking acrobatics before being skillfully brought aboard.

The blacktip shark, a common sight off the Texas coast, was a significant catch, both in size and experience. Deciding to keep the shark, they planned to savor the fruits of their labor, a well-deserved reward for their efforts.

But the sea had one more surprise. As they neared the end of their journey, a triple tail was caught. Though this particular fish was too small to keep, its catch added to the day's achievements, marking the successful end to an adventure that saw them catching all three targeted species.

Reflecting on the day, the satisfaction was palpable. The combination of skill, patience, and a bit of luck had paid off. Fishing with Captain Derek York was an experience Paul rated highly, a perfect 10 out of 10. Their adventure, filled with highs, challenges, and the raw beauty of nature, was more than just a fishing trip; it was a testament to the bond between anglers and the sea, a reminder of the adventures that await in the waters of Galveston Bay.

Paul Fuzinski

Paul started Aptitude Outdoors in 2016 after Thru-Hiking the Appalachian Trail. He is an outdoors writer, filmmaker and wildlife photographer. He enjoys hunting, fishing and telling stories about conservation.

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