How to Plan the Perfect Family-Friendly Charter Fishing Trip

A family fishing trip can create wonderful memories for children of all ages. Every fishing enthusiast remembers their first time out on the water. From casting their first line to reeling in their first catch, there’s so much novelty and excitement to be found. The benefits of teaching kids to fish are almost too many to list. Fishing requires focus and patience; it builds confidence; it’s a great exercise; not to mention, it limits screen time. Overall, family fishing trips are a win-win for kids and parents alike.

To avoid the summer fishing rush, start planning now. We’ve compiled our top tips for planning a family fishing trip you won’t soon forget.

Start Close to Shore

Wrestling a giant tuna 90 miles out is a thrilling experience. However, it’s not ideal for beginners. Even seasoned anglers appreciate the somewhat relaxed pace of inshore fishing, which is simply fishing within approximately 10 miles of the shore. Target species — like redfish, flounder, bass, black drum, catfish and more — are plentiful. Indeed, there are so many species that Louisiana has two official state fish: freshwater white crappie (or “sac-a-lait”  as we call it in Louisiana) and saltwater speckled trout. Most crappie weigh under a pound and are easy for kids to catch.

With inshore fishing, travel time on a fishing charter is greatly reduced; short trips are best for keeping kids engaged through the learning curve. Inshore fishing equipment is typically lighter and easier to master, and most charter captains provide basic gear and bait. As an added perk, the weather is typically calmer and more predictable the closer you are to shore.

Come Dressed for Success

What you wear can make or break a family fishing trip, so keep two things in mind: comfort and safety.

Fluctuating weather conditions pose the greatest challenge to comfort. That bulky sweater you love wearing at dawn could become your worst nightmare as the sun advances in the sky. Think loose, lightweight layers — tanks, tees, pullovers and windbreakers — that are easy to remove or put back on. You’re bound to get at least a little wet, so choose waterproof fabrics or materials that dry quickly. Rain ponchos come in handy sometimes.

There are no ironclad rules about shoes, though most captains require they be closed-toed. Seasoned pros swear by their personal favorites, which range from ordinary sneakers to tall rubber boots. There is a staggering number of options in water shoes nowadays, so any style you like wearing is probably available. Whatever you choose, ensure your shoes are skid-proof as boat decks can get slippery.

Limiting your direct exposure to the sun is a must. The sun reflects off the water even when it’s overcast, so we can’t say enough about protecting your skin and eyes. Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts if possible. You’ll need a cap with a visor or, even better, a wide-brimmed hat to shade your face and neck. Sunglasses are a necessity, and the right pair will even help you spot and catch your prey. Polarized lenses reduce glare on the water to help you see fish teeming beneath the surface. Different lens colors are recommended for different water depths and types of fishing.

The best clothing and accessories are designed specifically for fishing. Mossy Oak, for instance, makes a wide range of stretchy, comfy, cooling garments for a great day of charter fishing. There are clothes for every member of the family, and its water-wicking technology also features built-in sun protection. 

Come Prepared

This is no time to grab items willy-nilly as you leave the house. You’ll be safer and have more fun if you come prepared. Here are some items to get you started:

• Snacks, drinks and an ice chest. Ask your fishing charter captain what’s provided, and go from there. You’ll need a cooler for any snacks and drinks, as well as a second cooler for storing your catch. Make sure to bring plenty of water, and always check with your captain before bringing any alcohol along.

• Waterproof storage. This is for IDs, permits, cellphones, money (tips for great experiences are appreciated) or anything else you want to keep dry. Fanny packs or resealable storage bags are ideal.

• A camera or binoculars. Make the most of the scenery and wildlife here in Sportsman’s Paradise.

• Bug spray. For the most part, insects are your friends because fish like eating them. Still, a good repellent will keep the kids from whining about bugs.

• Extra socks. Toss in a clean, dry pair for everybody. After a morning of fishing, it’s a creature comfort that you’ll be glad you thought of.

• High-SPF sunscreen. We hate to harp on this, but the sun is more punishing on water than on land. Throw in some protective lip balm too.

Prepare to Cook Your Catch

Seafood is healthy, versatile and super tasty. If you’re not sure what to do with your bountiful catch, we’ve got you covered. Our series, Catch & Cook, features Chef Jay Ducote, a seasoned pro and native Louisianan. He can turn even the most common catch into a true Cajun delicacy. Guest stars from Food Network are also part of the lineup. Look for featured recipes, such as Asian Flair Black Drum and Slap Ya Mama Fried Fish, on our Catch & Cook web page. Check out the full episodes for more Louisiana fishing fun on Mossy Oak’s YouTube channel.

Book Now

Our fishing charter captains are smart, skilled, experienced and safety-minded. They’re walking encyclopedias on everything from state licensing to the “left-handedness” of certain flounder. Plus, they’re highly entertaining.

For a customized family fishing trip that you won’t soon forget, book early through LouisianaCharterFishing.com.

SOURCES:

https://www.fws.gov/story/guide-fishing-first-time
https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/species/category/freshwater
https://www.mossyoak.com/fishing
https://www.lawff.org/