Get ready for a fishing trip that'll have your kids hooked! Our 3-hour private charter is tailor-made for young anglers looking to reel in some excitement off the beautiful Destin coast. With lightweight gear and a patient captain, we'll make sure your little ones have a blast hauling in everything from colorful Sand Perch to prized Red Snapper. It's the perfect way to introduce kids to the joys of fishing without overwhelming them.
As soon as we push off from the dock, the adventure begins. Our seasoned captain knows all the sweet spots where fish are biting, so we'll head straight to the action. We keep things fun and laid-back, perfect for kids who might be new to fishing or just want a chill day on the water. The boat's got plenty of shade and comfy seats, so parents can kick back while the kiddos do the fishing. We'll show them how to bait hooks, cast lines, and most importantly – how to reel in the big ones!
Don't worry if your kids have never held a fishing rod before – we've got you covered. We use light tackle that's easy for small hands to handle, and our crew is there every step of the way to lend a hand. We'll teach them all about different types of bait, how to feel for a nibble, and the right way to set the hook. It's all about learning while having a ton of fun. And when they catch their first fish? The looks on their faces are priceless!
Grey Triggerfish are a favorite among our young anglers. These quirky-looking fish are known for their strong jaws and unique teeth – perfect for crushing shellfish. Kids love their distinctive shape and the challenge of reeling them in. Triggerfish are most active in the warmer months, putting up a good fight for their size. They're curious creatures, often following divers around, which makes for some fun stories to share back on land.
White Grunt, or "pigfish" as the locals call 'em, are another crowd-pleaser. These silvery fish with bright yellow-orange stripes are a common catch in Destin's waters. They get their nickname from the grunting sound they make when caught – always a hit with the kids! White Grunt are year-round residents, so there's a good chance of hooking one no matter when you visit. They're not just fun to catch; they're tasty too, though we practice catch-and-release to keep our waters thriving.
Red Snapper is the rockstar of the Gulf, and for good reason. These bright red beauties are a prized catch, known for their firm, white flesh and mild flavor. Snapper fishing is strictly regulated, but when the season's open, it's a real treat for young anglers. These fish can grow pretty big, so landing one is always a thrill. Red Snapper like to hang around reefs and wrecks, so we might do some bottom fishing to try our luck at hooking one of these fantastic fish.
Our kid-friendly charters are more than just fishing trips – they're memory makers. We've seen shy kids turn into confident anglers over the course of a single trip. Parents love watching their little ones light up with excitement as they reel in their catch. And let's be honest, even the grown-ups get a kick out of it! Many families tell us this becomes the highlight of their Destin vacation, with kids begging to come back year after year.
We take safety seriously, especially with our youngest guests on board. Our boat is equipped with all the necessary safety gear, including kid-sized life jackets. The captain keeps a close eye on the weather and sea conditions to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride. We're also stocked with sunscreen and plenty of water to keep everyone hydrated and protected from the Florida sun. Our crew is trained in first aid and knows how to handle any situation that might come up, so parents can relax and enjoy the trip too.
To make the most of your family fishing adventure, here are a few insider tips: 1. Dress in layers – it can be cooler on the water than on land. 2. Bring snacks – fishing works up an appetite! 3. Don't forget the camera – you'll want to capture those proud smiles. 4. Consider motion sickness remedies if your kids are prone to seasickness. 5. Get a good night's sleep – an early start means more time for fishing fun!
While the fishing is the main event, there's so much more to enjoy on our trips. Keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the wake of the boat – they often make an appearance and never fail to delight both kids and adults. The views of Destin's famous emerald waters and white sand beaches from the boat are stunning. It's also a great chance for kids to learn about marine ecology, navigation, and boating. Our captain is always happy to answer questions and share stories about life on the water.
Ready to give your kids an adventure they'll be talking about for years? Our private 3-hour charters fill up fast, especially during peak season. With room for up to three young anglers and additional space for adults to tag along, it's the perfect family outing. Remember, while the grown-ups are welcome aboard, this trip is all about letting the kids shine. So grab your hats, slap on some sunscreen, and let's get out on the water! Call our captain today to check availability and book your family's next great fishing story. Trust us, the only thing you'll regret is not doing it sooner!
Red Snapper are prized catches in our Gulf waters, typically ranging from 1-2 feet long and weighing up to 10 pounds. You'll find them hanging around reefs and wrecks in depths of 30-200 feet. These fish love structure, so we target areas with plenty of underwater hiding spots. The best time to catch Red Snapper is during the summer months when the season opens. Kids love going after them because they put up a good fight and have those signature bright red scales. Plus, there's nothing like the taste of fresh-caught snapper for dinner. When fishing for Red Snapper, we'll use heavy weights to get our bait down deep. Live bait like cigar minnows or pinfish works great. Here's a local tip - once you hook one, reel fast and steady. These fish will try to dive back to their rocky homes and can easily break your line if you give them slack. Remember, Red Snapper have strict regulations, so we'll make sure to follow all the rules while still having a blast catching these beautiful fish.
Grey Triggerfish are quirky catches you'll find around reefs and hard-bottom areas, usually in 60-300 feet of water. They typically run 1-2 feet long and can weigh up to 13 pounds, though most are smaller. These odd-looking fish have tough, leathery skin and a powerful set of teeth they use to crunch crabs and other sea critters. Kids love their unique shape and the way they can change colors to blend in with their surroundings. Triggerfish season is usually open in the fall and winter months. They're fun to catch because they put up a surprisingly good fight for their size. Plus, they're excellent eating - the meat is white and flaky. When fishing for triggers, use a small, strong hook and tough bait like squid that can withstand their nibbling. Here's a local trick: when you feel the bite, wait a second before setting the hook. Triggerfish often grab the bait and retreat to their hole, so give them a moment to feel secure before you try to reel them in.
White Grunts are fun catches for kids, usually 6-12 inches long. You'll find them around reefs, docks, and mangroves in water up to about 100 feet deep. They're most active at night, but we can still catch plenty during the day. These silvery-blue fish with yellow stripes are common year-round in our area. Kids get a kick out of their grunting sound - that's how they got their name! When you catch one, you might hear it making noise as you reel it in. White Grunts are great for young anglers because they're eager biters and put up a nice little fight for their size. They'll go for just about any bait, but shrimp works especially well. Here's a tip: if you're targeting grunts, use a smaller hook size and fish close to the bottom. While they're not the biggest fish out there, White Grunts are tasty and make for a fun, easy catch that'll keep the kids entertained throughout the trip.