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Step 1
Decide what part of Texas you wish to visit and get a sense of what kind of fishing is available there. Common species include marlin, snapper, bass, flounder, sailfish, grouper, mackerel and shark. Fishing along the Gulf Coast tends to be fairly uniform, but each area has its own blend of spots. Ports such as Galveston, Freeport and Port Aransas all offer reliable charters when fish are in season.
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Step 2
Check with the Fishing and Boating division of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (see Resources below) to learn when particular fish are in season. Ask for a copy of the current fishing regulations and find out how many fish you can legally catch. Certain species are protected and others can only be caught up to a particular size and only in limited numbers. You must purchase a license to go deep sea fishing in Texas.
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Step 3
Familiarize yourself with the specific saltwater fish harvesting regulations. A detailed chart of daily bag and weight limits is available on the Texas Parks and Wildlife website.
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Step 4
Locate a reputable charter and see if he is available for the time you want. Charter fishermen often know the best places to fish and can provide a proper boat as well as the equipment you need. Some fishermen are available as guides if you want to use your own boat and most reliable charters can handle licensing and other paperwork as a part of their fee.
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Step 5
Find a good hotel or camping ground near the place where you want to go fishing. Some charters offer overnight excursions, but most come home in the evening, meaning you will need a place to stay. Seaside hotels often have good charter fishermen attached to their business and can offer you a deal on rates if you go deep sea fishing with one of "their charters."
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Step 6
Study deep sea fishing techniques and the best rods and lures to use for the kinds of fish you want to catch. The type of equipment you use and the methods to bait and hook certain fish can vary widely, and it helps to know which ones work best for your purposes. A good charter can give you sound advice, but reading up in advance will make things go easier.
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Step 7
Pack properly. Charter fishermen can provide good block and tackle for you, but if you have your own equipment, you may want to bring it along (make sure that's fine with the charter first). You'll also need the right clothes, sunscreen, a hat and shades to keep off the sun, as well as seasickness medicine if you're prone to nausea. Ask your charter what you will need beforehand and make sure you have it all when you head for the dock.
