Best Saltwater Fish to Catch in Texas: A Coastal Angler’s Guide Powered by Krypt T‑Tops
Texas saltwater fishing is legendary, and for good reason. From the shallow bays of the Texas Coast to the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico, anglers can target some of the most exciting and hard‑fighting species in the country. Whether you're chasing speckled trout at sunrise or battling a powerful king mackerel offshore, the Lone Star State offers endless opportunities. And with a Krypt T‑Top on your boat, you’ll have the shade, stability, and storage you need to fish longer and more comfortably.
Speckled Trout: The Iconic Texas Inshore Fish
Speckled trout—also known as spotted sea trout—are among the most popular saltwater fish to catch in Texas. They thrive in shallow bays, grass flats, and oyster reefs from Sabine Lake to the Lower Laguna Madre. Live shrimp under a popping cork is a classic setup, but artificial lures like soft plastics and topwater plugs produce explosive strikes.
A Krypt T‑Top gives you the perfect vantage point for spotting slicks and bait movement, helping you locate trout schools faster. Plus, the built‑in rod holders keep your gear organized when switching between lures.
Redfish: The Powerhouse of the Texas Coast
Redfish, or red drum, are a bucket‑list catch for any Texas angler. These bronze bruisers roam marshes, channels, and flats, feeding aggressively on mullet, shrimp, and crabs. Sight‑casting to tailing reds is one of the most thrilling experiences in Texas saltwater fishing.
When you're poling shorelines or drifting grass flats, the shade from a Krypt T‑Top keeps you cool during long days on the water. Its rock‑solid construction also provides a stable handhold when fighting a big bull red near the boat.
Flounder: The Ambush Predator
Flounder are a favorite for anglers who enjoy a challenge—and a great meal. These bottom‑dwelling ambush predators hide along sandy bottoms, channels, and marsh drains. Jigging soft plastics or bouncing live bait along the bottom is the key to success.
Because flounder fishing often means slow drifting or working tight structure, having a T‑Top with integrated lighting and storage helps keep your deck clear and your gear accessible, especially during low‑light conditions.
King Mackerel: Offshore Speed and Power
For anglers heading into the Gulf of Mexico, king mackerel (kingfish) offer blistering runs and unforgettable battles. Troll live bait or flashy spoons along offshore structure, rigs, and bait schools to hook into these fast predators.
Offshore conditions can change quickly, and that’s where a Krypt T‑Top shines. Its durable aluminum frame and marine‑grade canvas provide essential protection from sun and spray, making long runs safer and more comfortable.
Black Drum: A Reliable Year‑Round Catch
Black drum are abundant along the Texas Coast and offer steady action for anglers of all skill levels. They feed on crustaceans and can be caught around jetties, channels, and oyster beds. While smaller drum are great for the table, the larger “big uglies” provide a fun fight on light tackle.
With a Krypt T‑Top, you get the deck space and rod storage needed to switch between bottom rigs, popping corks, and live bait setups without clutter.