Weekly East Bay Fishing Report February 1, 2026
Surface water temperatures in East Galveston Bay near Crystal Beach, Texas are holding around 50 degrees, with good water clarity across the bay system. After several days of strong north winds, calmer conditions and sunshine returned, creating excellent opportunities for inshore fishing on the Upper Texas Coast.
Speckled trout are primarily holding near the bottom, making a slow presentation essential. The most consistent trout bite has come from fishing deeper shell and mud using various jig head sizes paired with Salt & Pepper Wacky Fluke tails. Bites have been extremely subtle, so anglers should stay focused and be ready to set the hook at the slightest tap.
The best trout action has occurred during major and minor feeding periods, especially when rising daytime temperatures warm the water. While winter fishing requires patience, trout and redfish continue to feed in colder water. Fishing areas with visible bait activity or signs of life is critical, and it’s best to move on if no activity is present.
As water temperatures rise throughout the day, some fish are shifting onto nearby mud flats to feed, offering additional opportunities during late morning and afternoon hours.
Redfish fishing in East Galveston Bay and the surrounding marsh remains consistent, particularly around drains and shallow backwater areas. Imitation shrimp lures and soft plastic tails fished under popping corks with a one-foot leader have been productive, along with weightless Rat Tails and FishBites tails.
Winter is one of the best times of year to target bigger trout and redfish in Crystal Beach, thanks to lighter fishing pressure and aggressive cold-water feeding patterns. It’s an ideal season to enjoy bay fishing with family and friends.
The Corky bite is also in full swing, making it a top artificial lure option for targeting trophy trout. Walking topwater baits and slow-falling hard jerk baits have also been effective when weather and water conditions line up.
Until next time,
Captain Jeff Brandon
Get the Net Guide Services, LLC
Year-round artificial lure fishing guide
Crystal Beach, Texas
📞 940-393-6531
🌐 www.getthenetguideservices.com
Pick up supplies beforehand at
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