Grading Out Galveston Bay Through June

If either the reds or speckled trout don't cooperate, there's plenty of black drum in the bay. Now a lot of folks frown down upon black drum. I'm hear to tell you otherwise. These fish make for fine table fare, especially those in the 15-18 inch range. They are fairly easy to catch. One can use live shrimp and even fresh, not frozen dead shrimp, fished on the bottom or under corks. It's best to fish structure such as rocks, shell reefs, or even along bulkheads.

This year's sheepshead catches in the bay have only been fair. This is a little disappointing to see as they make for some fine eating. I really can't say why the numbers have been down. You can still catch a few of them along rocks and old pier pilings. The best way to do this is by using a small live shrimp rigged on a number 8 size treble hook and fished under a popping cork.

The bay is in great shape and salty throughout the entire complex. As long as the wind stays relatively light, good fishing should continue through the month of June. Remember to be courteous and respect another angler's area where they're fishing.