Meet Guide Mark Ueding

Captain Mark Ueding is a retired Houston firefighter who brings the same dedication and calm under pressure to the water that he did to the fire service for years. His journey into professional guiding began in 2014, when he sought the serenity of the Texas coast as a way to recharge on his off days from the EMS and fire departments. What started as a personal passion for inshore fishing quickly evolved into a second career as he worked his way up from a deckhand with Texas Fins and Feathers to earning his license as a professional offshore captain. This transition from first responder to local guide was fueled by a genuine love for the Port O'Connor ecosystem and a desire to share its diverse beauty with others.

With over a decade of experience navigating the complex waters of the Texas Gulf Coast, Captain Mark has built a reputation for being a humble and patient expert who prioritizes the guest experience above all else. His background in public service translates seamlessly into a focus on hospitality and safety, ensuring that every person on board feels secure and well-attended. Whether he is guiding a seasoned group of anglers into federal waters for snapper or introducing a young hunter to the coastal marshes on their very first duck hunt, his approach is grounded in the belief that the outdoors should be accessible and enjoyable for everyone. He takes immense pride in being an ambassador for Port O'Connor, helping guests connect with the local environment through professional expertise and a friendly, down-to-earth attitude.

Captain Mark’s philosophy is centered on the joy of the excursion rather than just the weight of the cooler. He is particularly passionate about involving the next generation in traditional outdoor activities, often reflecting on the excitement of seeing a young guest experience their first successful hunt or catch. His local expertise isn't just about knowing where the fish are; it’s about understanding the subtle shifts in the tides, the weather patterns of the Gulf, and the behaviors of the local waterfowl that only years of daily observation can provide. When you step onto his boat, you aren't just hiring a captain—you are gaining a partner who is genuinely invested in making sure your time on the water is safe, educational, and memorable.

The Fleet: Built for the Gulf and the Flats

The quality of a trip is often defined by the equipment used, and Port O'Connor Coastal Outfitters utilizes a fleet designed for versatility and performance. For offshore excursions into federal waters, guests ride on a 34-foot Fountain center console, a powerhouse vessel renowned for its speed and stability even when the Gulf gets choppy. This boat provides ample space and top-tier navigation for groups chasing snapper or enjoying a scenic party cruise along the Intercoastal. When the mission shifts to the shallow backwaters and coastal marshes, we transition to an 18-foot Air Ranger airboat. This specialized craft allows us to skim across the flats and reach remote duck hunting grounds that traditional boats simply cannot access, providing a rugged and reliable platform for every adventure Captain Mark leads.