The Best Way to Introduce Kids to Fishing
There's something special about a child's first fish. The tug on the line, the excitement of the fight, the look on their face when they hold it up for the photo — it's a memory that lasts a lifetime. At Rising Son Expeditions, we've built our 2-Hour Beginners & Kids Trip specifically to create that moment.
Captain Trey has spent 40 years fishing Choctawhatchee Bay and has a genuine gift for working with young anglers. He knows how to keep kids engaged, how to explain the basics without overwhelming them, and — most importantly — how to put them on fish.
We fish the protected inshore waters of Choctawhatchee Bay, so the ride is smooth and the action is close. No rough offshore swells, no seasickness, no waiting hours between bites. Just consistent action on redfish, trout, flounder, and more.
Book the 2-Hour Family Trip →
Family-Friendly Trip Options
Choose the trip that fits your family's schedule and experience level. Both include all gear, bait, and the fishing license.
2-Hour Beginners & Kids Trip
- Perfect for ages 4 and up
- 5 departure times: 8 AM, 10:30 AM, 1 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:30 PM
- Smooth inshore bay water — no seasickness
- Educational — kids learn to cast, reel, and identify species
- Catch redfish, trout, flounder & more
- All tackle, bait & fishing license included
3-Hour Fisherman's Special
- Ideal for families with kids 8 and older
- More time to work multiple spots
- Target a wider variety of species
- Great for families with mixed experience levels
- All tackle, bait & fishing license included
- Flexible morning or afternoon departure
What to Expect on a Family Charter
Here's how a typical family fishing trip with Rising Son Expeditions unfolds from start to finish.
Meet at the Dock
We meet at the boat launch near Santa Rosa Beach. Captain Trey greets the family, does a quick safety briefing, and gets everyone set up with rods and life jackets. Kids get a quick casting lesson before we leave the dock.
Head to the Flats
We run a short distance to productive grass flats and oyster bars on Choctawhatchee Bay. The ride is smooth and scenic — kids love spotting dolphins, herons, and osprey along the way.
Catch Fish
Captain Trey puts you on fish fast. He handles all the baiting, unhooking, and fish handling so parents can focus on helping their kids. Every catch gets a proper photo before release or keeping.
Head Home with Memories
At the end of the trip, we head back to the dock. Captain Trey cleans any fish you're keeping and sends you home with a cooler full of fresh fillets — and a story the kids will tell for years.
What to Bring for the Kids
We provide all fishing gear. Here's what to pack for a comfortable day on the water with children.
Fish Kids Love to Catch
Choctawhatchee Bay is one of the most productive inshore fisheries on the Gulf Coast. Here's what's typically biting on family charters.
| Species | Best Season | Kid-Friendly? | Why Kids Love It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redfish | Year-round | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Visible on the flats, exciting fight, beautiful fish |
| Speckled Trout | Year-round | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Bites fast, jumps when hooked, great table fare |
| Flounder | Fall peak | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Flat and funny-looking — kids are fascinated |
| Sheepshead | Winter–Spring | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Striped like a convict, strong pull, easy to catch |
| Mangrove Snapper | Summer–Fall | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Fast bites, colorful, great eating |
Family Charter FAQ
What age is appropriate for a kids fishing charter near 30A?
Do kids need a fishing license on a charter in Florida?
What if my child gets bored or restless?
Can we keep the fish we catch?
Is the boat safe for young children?
Give Your Kids a Fishing Memory They'll Never Forget
Book the 2-Hour Beginners & Kids Trip and let Captain Trey do the rest. All gear provided. No experience needed.
Questions? Send us a message — we respond within a few hours.