South Texas Duck Hunting & Boat Tours | Laguna Madre Charters

Conservation & Stewardship

Personal Message from Capt. Ethan Perez

This Place Raised Me – I’m Just Giving Back

I’ve spent my whole life on the Laguna Madre — from duck blinds at sunrise to sunset boat rides with family. I've seen how much this land can give… and how quickly it can be taken for granted.

From Port Mansfield to South Padre Island, we have one of the most biologically rich coastal areas in the country. But it's fragile. That’s why I don’t just guide hunts or scenic tours — I teach every guest how to enjoy the land responsibly.

I want kids, families, and future hunters to experience this place the way I did — alive, wild, and full of beauty. Conservation isn’t a side thing. It’s the heart of what I do.

Informational Tips by Service

Duck Hunting

  • We hunt ethically — no sky busting, no over-shooting.
  • All hunts follow TPWD regulations, with a focus on harvesting mature birds only to preserve population health.
  • We use non-toxic shot and recover every downed bird as well as used shell — no waste.
  • I actively scout to avoid disturbing nesting sites or protected areas.

Scenic Boat Tours

  • No speeding in shallow or sensitive zones — we respect marine grass beds and shorebird rookeries.
  • I point out local wildlife and educate guests on how these ecosystems work.
  • We never throw trash in the bay. If we see any, we pick it up.
  • Each tour is a chance to teach visitors how to enjoy the water without hurting it.

Local Conservation Info: Port Mansfield → SPI

The stretch of coast from south of Port Mansfield to South Padre Island is part of a globally recognized ecological zone — especially for:

  • Migratory waterfowl and shorebirds (like redheads, pintails, roseate spoonbills)
  • Endangered species like sea turtles and aplomado falcons
  • Seagrass beds and hypersaline lagoons that are vital for fish and water filtration

Threats here include:

  • Coastal development
  • Boat prop damage in shallow water
  • Illegal dumping
  • Unethical or unregulated hunting

Laguna Madre Charters commits to respecting state regulations, minimizing habitat impact, and promoting public awareness. I support and stay informed through:

  • Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD)
  • Ducks Unlimited
  • Local clean-up and wetland advocacy efforts

Guest Education & Free Youth Trips

Youth Are the Future — And the Best Students

Each season, I offer 2 free select youth duck hunts and boat tours aimed at educating kids on conservation. I teach them:

  • How to hunt legally and responsibly
  • The value of protecting wetland habitatss
  • How to identify different parts of our wetland habitat
  • Why clean water matters — and how to help protect it
  • How ecosystem laws and conservation rules protect everything from fish to birds to grass beds

These trips aren’t just about making a shot or snapping a photo — they’re about raising a generation that loves and respects the outdoors.

I also provide every youth with a chance to ask questions, get hands-on experience, and learn what it really means to be a good steward of the land.

If you're interested in signing your child up for a free youth educational eco-tour or guided duck hunt, use the button below to contact me directly. These experiences are for youth under 16 years old and will include a parent or guardian attending the trip. Spots are limited to 3 each season, but even if they are already booked I provide youth discounts on all my services.

These trips are designed to be educational and fun. Cold drinks and light snacks will be provided to make sure everyone is comfortable and focused on enjoying the day out on the water or in the field.

Sign Up for a Youth Trip

Help the Conservation Here

Conservation is a team effort, and every bit helps protect the Laguna Madre and its incredible wildlife for future generations. If you want to support the cause beyond your trip, consider donating to trusted organizations dedicated to preserving waterfowl habitats and coastal ecosystems:

Your support helps fund habitat restoration, conservation education, and wildlife research programs that keep the Laguna Madre thriving. Together, we can protect this special place.