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5/5

From 12
verified reviews

jackAiIconJack AI Customer Experience Snapshot

Captain JW Watson consistently delivers exceptional fishing results, with customers regularly catching limits of red snapper, king fish, and other species. JW's expertise shines through his ability to locate productive spots quickly - one group caught their red snapper limit in just 1.5 hours, bringing home about 100 pounds of fish. He adapts to changing conditions expertly, switching from bottom fishing to trolling when rough waters make red snapper fishing difficult, ensuring guests still go home with great catches. JW's thoughtful communication starts days before trips with weather updates, and his genuine care for families creates memorable experiences. He's particularly patient with children, personally helping young anglers hook and land fish throughout the day. Along with his skilled deckhand AJ, JW provides full-service experiences including cleaning, filleting, and bagging catches, plus restaurant recommendations for cooking the fish. Customers consistently book return trips and recommend JW for his friendly approach and professional expertise.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Red Snapper
Trolling
Weather Updates
Family Friendly
Fish Cleaning
Limit Catches
King Fish
Professional Crew

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All Reviews

GW

Garrett W

August 13, 2024
Trip - Private Fishing Charter – South Padre Island, Red Snapper, Cobia, and Kingfish on August 13, 2024
Clock Icon 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM

My father and I had an awesome time hanging out with captain JW and deck hand AJ. Although the troll wasn’t as great as anticipated they were still able to put us on some decent fish and we ended up with a great haul for the day. I highly recommend them if you are looking for a private charter and will certainly fish with them again next time I am in the area.

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David Y

August 10, 2024
Trip - Private Fishing Charter – South Padre Island, Red Snapper, Cobia, and Kingfish on August 10, 2024
Clock Icon 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM

JW called starting three days out to keep us updated on sea conditions. AJ was our deck hand and let me say this guy was awesome. They put us on the fish and one thing that impressed my wife and I, was that JW came down to help our son. Words can’t express how these guys made use feel. Two of the most friendly people I’ve had the privilege of fishing with. We were treated wonderful and I just can’t thank them enough. I’m looking forward to booking with them next year. Truly a wonderful experience.

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SW

Steven W

August 5, 2024
Trip - Private Fishing Charter – South Padre Island, Red Snapper, Cobia, and Kingfish on August 5, 2024
Clock Icon 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Our half day trip with Captain JW and his mate AJ was outstanding. They were especially good with our 7 year old, helping her to hook and catch many fish throughout the day. Both JW and AJ were extremely helpful for all of us, and we would highly recommend booking with them. We will definitely be back next summer.

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KV

Kevin V

June 24, 2024
Trip - Private Fishing Charter – South Padre Island, Red Snapper, Cobia, and Kingfish on June 24, 2024
Clock Icon 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM

We had a great time on our five hour morning trip ! For most of us on the trip it was out first time deep sea fishing and they were very knowledgeable. They taught us the basic and kept everything running smoothly. There were some rough waters so it made it difficult for us to fish for red snapper. JW and Tyler got us set up for trolling and we were able to catch 4 King fish! When we finished one of the places they recommended to get the fish cooked wasTom & Jerry’s . We had them fry half and the other half was blackened and all turned out delicious.

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SB

Shea B

June 17, 2024
Trip - Private Fishing Charter – South Padre Island, Red Snapper, Cobia, and Kingfish on June 17, 2024
Clock Icon 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Captain J.W. and AJ were absolutely on top of things when it came to making sure me and my group had a great time out on the waves. Ended up going home with a ton of fish and great stories, and if we find ourselves down in south padre again to do some fishing, we know who we’re going to try to book first. Thanks for the great experience!

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AT

Alvin T

May 28, 2024
Trip - Private Fishing Charter – South Padre Island, Red Snapper, Cobia, and Kingfish on May 28, 2024
Clock Icon 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM

My birthday was this past May 2022, my wife’s gift was a fishing trip to South Padre. Captain JW and First Mate AJ were awesome! There were a total of four of us, Three Adults and one 11 year old. We did the 5 hour trip and every minute was worth it. When we got to our first spot, as soon as we dropped lines we were getting bites and catching fish. Captain JW knew exactly where to go and when the fish were biting. I would definitely recommend Captain JW and the 5 hour (or longer trip). On our trip we caught all Red Snapper. We caught total of 16 Red Snapper. Due to size we had to release 6, so we brought home 10 good sized Red Snapper.

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RM

Rickey M

May 16, 2024
Trip - Private Fishing Charter – South Padre Island, Red Snapper, Cobia, and Kingfish on May 16, 2024
Clock Icon 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM

We had a wonderful time. didn’t get our limit in red snapper but caught alot of smaller ones. thankyou jw for a good day.

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RY

Robert Y

April 10, 2024
Trip - Private Fishing Charter – South Padre Island, Red Snapper, Cobia, and Kingfish on April 10, 2024
Clock Icon 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM

JW our captain made our trip an excellent experience. He knew where fish were. We caught red snapper limit in about 1.5 hours. 5 persons About 100 lbs. He and his crew hand cleaned , fillet and bagged our fish and even gave us some ice. We had lots of fun. The captain keeps you updated with any changes if needed.

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JH

Jodi H

March 26, 2024
Trip - Private Fishing Charter – South Padre Island, Red Snapper, Cobia, and Kingfish on March 26, 2024
Clock Icon 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM

We celebrated my Dad’s 80th birthday with a fishing trip. These gentlemen were so respectful and helpful with my dad. Our family had an amazing trip and we had so much fun. I highly recommend these gentlemen and this trip.

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CC

Cezanne C

March 26, 2024
Trip - Private Fishing Charter – South Padre Island, Red Snapper, Cobia, and Kingfish on March 26, 2024
Clock Icon 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM

J.W. and A J. were awesome. We didn’t have a good experience the previous year with a different company as there were about 40 people all fishing from one boat and we didn’t catch anything big enough to keep. This year’s trip with Captain J. W. was a far different outcome and a very satisfying experience. He put us on the fish and when we drifted away, he moved the boat back on them. We caught a lot of fish but many were too small to keep. It was a little early in the season for the Red Snapper although we did catch one big enough to keep. A. J. was always right there to take the fish off and rebait our hook so we could drop it back in the water. I would highly recommend J. W. for your private charter. His communication was excellent about the weather leading up to our trip and it was a beautiful day on the water. Thank you J. W. and A. J.

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TC

Tom C

February 13, 2024
Trip - Private Fishing Charter – South Padre Island, Red Snapper, Cobia, and Kingfish on February 13, 2024
Clock Icon 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM

JW rearranged his schedule and took us out a different day due to the windy forecast. The weather was perfect. He and AJ put us onto some large red snapper right away. They were encouraging and never upset if you missed hooking the fish when you were getting bites. This was the highlight of the trip hands down!! Shout out to Tom and Jerry’s, their recommendation to cook some of our catch. So delicious!

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RH

Richard H

January 15, 2024
Trip - Private Fishing Charter – South Padre Island, Red Snapper, Cobia, and Kingfish on January 15, 2024
Clock Icon 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Even though it was heavy fog we made it out to the reef. The captain knew where the fish were and when we weren’t getting hits he moved the boat and found more fish. He seemed to know right where to go. The first mate Tyler did a great job of taking our fish off and keeping our hooks baited...even fixing a backlash or two. JW and Tyler are both super friendly guys and made us feel at home and also gave us great fishing tips. Overall a great experience had by all of us. Thanks again JW and Tyler.

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Top-rated Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

What Guests Are Saying About What's On Fishing in South Padre Island, TX

Our customer testimonials speak for themselves—What’s On Fishing is a top choice for fishing charters in South Padre Island, TX. Guests consistently praise the trip quality, the captain’s expertise, and the thrill of catching species like Red Snapper, Kingfish, Mahi Mahi, and even Marlin. Whether it’s a first-time experience or a returning group, anglers highlight how Captain JW Watson and his crew go above and beyond to make each trip safe, successful, and unforgettable. Many guests become repeat customers, booking again year after year for the outstanding fishing and exceptional service.

The reviews also reflect the variety of trips offered—from half-day nearshore outings to full-day offshore adventures. Families, groups, and seasoned anglers alike mention how welcoming and professional the crew is, ensuring everyone feels confident on the water. With high-quality gear, deep local knowledge, and a passion for fishing the Gulf, it’s no surprise that What’s On Fishing earns glowing feedback from both locals and visitors. See what others are saying and book your trip today—your South Padre Island fishing adventure is just a click away!

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Set on an unforgettable fishing journey with What's On Fishing, your premier choice for unforgettable fishing trips in South Padre. Led by Captain JW Watson, we offer anglers of every skill level the opportunity to catch impressive fish while soaking in the amazing scenery of South Padre’s crystal-clear waters. With a focus on customer satisfaction and a genuine passion for fishing, What's On Fishing ensures a fantastic day on the water, brimming with excitement, camaraderie, and cherished memories.

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