October 1, 2025
Highwater Marks
Castaway Lodge Seadrift Report
By Capt. Kris Kelley
Guests braving the rugged cold weather of late on early runs at the ducks have been rewarded with fast shooting and solid straps. Goose hunts showing promise as well with Bob T. and guests taking 33 the first morning and 14 the next, mostly Snows. Capt. James C.; Capt. Matt; Capt. Doug; Capt. Chris and myself all managed solid shooting despite a big shift in the birds after the undulations in water levels after the big blast of the latest cold front. This took a lot of team work in weather that will test the resolve of any watermen and I’ve got to hand it to the guys for not only getting the job done but executing really well.
Fishing
We’ve had some duck/fish combinations lately but the rugged cold isn’t making that very comfortable. Capt. James E. managed some Redfish action wading marsh drains and bayous with artificial while Capt. Chris C. has managed to stay on the Trout with size toward the lower end and not a whole lot of keepers.
This weather reminds me of the days when I was starting my career. This latest front came through hard and has stayed nasty for nearly a week. What’s good for the duck may be a challenge for the fish and the fisherman! It looks like we are heading for a warm up; winds are switching Southerly and I’m betting on some fog in coming days which will complicate early morning schedules.
Reflections
We ushered the New Year in on top of our game with guests from Texas; North Carolina; and Florida. In a Seasonal time of Thanksgiving and good cheer I have taken pause over the last few days to reflect on the blessings I’ve been given. Being surrounded by not only excellent watermen and guides but just really good people is something special. To those riches I add the best host on the coast, my wife Wendi, and our guests that bless us with their friendship and business. I think 2013 is going to be another great year at Castaway Lodge and we hope you will come see us when you get a chance.
Happy New Year!
Like us on Facebook and we promise to “love you back”!
Capt. Kris Kelley
Castaway Lodge
1-888-618-4868
www.seadriftbayfishing.com
Facebook: Castaway Lodge
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thoroughly enjoyed our time at Castaway Lodge during our duck hunt. Class act from the food, to the lodging & duck hunting. The entire facility was top rate & I really appreciated the effort. And thanks for supporting Serve Outdoors Texas charity by donating the hunt. Jody O.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very nice clean place. Everything is very nice and new looking. Very well maintained.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a great father day fishing trip, we will return again! The lodge was wonderful and breakfast and dinner was great! Bill Hansen Medford Ma. Austin TxPosted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We did a blast and cast and had a successful day getting a few birds and a lot of bites. Our guide was friendly and knowledgeable which made our adventure a great learning experience too. The accommodation and hospitality at Castaway is top notch and I look forward to returning for another experience!Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great day fishing! Excellent guide and super meal! Thanks for having us. We will be back!!Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a great time hunting! Everyone was very friendly and knowledgeable and made it a great time for my daughter and myself.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great group of people, lodging and food. Definitely a great experience and plan to book another trip.
