First time fishing
 

This weekend I will be taking my girls 9 and 7 fishing on a party boat for the first time. Do you guys have any tips on how to make this trip the most enjoyable it can be for them. I am hoping to get them hooked and have a couple of fishing buddies for life.

Re: First time fishing
 

I would think a 1/2 Day boat is the way to go, 8 hrs. in mid Aug may be a bit much for first timers.

Re: First time fishing
 

You really should start out on a charter. If you go on a party boat there is no turning back if they get sick. Also the head boats are packed this time of year. I know its more expensive but you want there first time to be memorable for the right reasons. Maybe even a boat like MIMI they have a nice inner area with tv, and Kenny is same price as OE or Mohawk. Other guys are awesome but its a long day for young kids, good luck.

Re: First time fishing
 

1. Its all about them for the day. Have fun!

2. Go on a catching boat (like for the mackeral and little blues). You want it to be stupid fishing which will keep them interested. They will not care if they are not catching 10# fluke. A 10oz fish will be just fine.

3. Cater to them in any way you can - bring their favorite snacks, drinks, etc. Enjoy the ride on the boat. Look for dolphins. Look for whales (even if there ain't any around - they don't know that!)

Whenever I took my kids in the early years, I wouldn't even fish. It was 100% attention to them. The only exception would have been to maybe hook a fish and hand the rod off to them.

Have fun!

Re: First time fishing
 

Thanks guys. We are doing a half day sponsor party boat. I have already let them pick out all of the snacks and drinks they want to bring. Also allowing them to bring some toys in case they get board and they can then go up on the sun deck to play. I have taken them fishing off my parents dock and they seem to be able to handle about 2 hours or so of that.
They already told me that they will not be touching the bait.

Re: First time fishing
 

find a boat thats porgy fishing

Re: First time fishing
 

I think Porgy fishing is the way to go also. Light tackle , kids could have a blast with them. Lots of them around also, plus the boat ride isn't very long to catch em

Re: First time fishing
 

Definitely 1/2 day.

If they bore easy you have to fill that void.

My son Sea Tow's with me and is on You Tube every chance until the battery dies on his phone. Now he brings a charger. :(

Re: First time fishing
 

I would reccomend you talk to the mate when you first get on board and let him know the kids are all new to fishing. If you tip in advance you'll likely get additional attention, which I'm sure the kids will love.

Their first impressions can make or break them on fishing and seems like you are trying to make sure it's as good as an experience as possible.

Good for you and hope you all have a great time.

Please let us know how you do.

Re: First time fishing
 

There are a few afternoon groupon trips that are good for kids. Short and sweet and not too $$$.

Also, set them up with bait and small hooks on the bottom. Kids like catching dogfish, skates, shorts, whatever...As long as they're reeling something in.

Re: First time fishing
 

You may wan to consider getting some sea sick medicine. Get the drowsy kind that lasts 24 hours. Give it to them the night before. They will sleep good and not be drowsy the next day. If they get sea sick, they may not want to go in the future

Re: First time fishing
 

Also maybe give them some ginger the night before very natural and helps prevent sea sickness

Re: First time fishing
 

Thanks again guys. I have ginger for them and Dramamine. I will also make sure to talk to the mates when we board the boat. Will past a full report after the trip

Re: First time fishing
 

I recommend renting a skiff in Shark River. Freedom to go where you want within the area. You can take it out early and keep it out til 4pm. You can always dock somewhere for lunch and pee breaks or just sight see the area. The river floor is full of short Fluke with a keeper size possible and don't forget the snappers and small Blues that frequent the area chasing the bait fish.
We have always caught something interesting in the River, from Trigger fish to Sting Rays!

Good luck.

Re: First time fishing
 

You could try a 4hr chaterboat trip where you would be fishing in the rivers or sandyhook bay lots of benifits to fishing a charter boat.The capt or mate can give the kids constant attention,lower sides so the kids can set the hook,short run in,calm waters,and also you never know on a partyboat who you will be fishing next to.Bad language, alcohol ,flying hooks etc.

Re: First time fishing
 

I recommend Bonine instead of Dramamine, one of the side effects of Dramamine believe it or not is nausea.

Re: First time fishing
 

Thanks I will pick some up

Re: First time fishing
 

I would go on the Atlantic Star in Atlantic Highlands for a half day trip for you and your young family. Captain Tom is terrific with first timers.

I hope you all have the best time ever and you have two lifelong fishing buddies.

God Bless

Re: First time fishing
 

Go see capt tom on the Atlantic star very family friendly you go wrong with him

Re: First time fishing
 

All good advice....I'll add my .02

Been doing it awhile with my kid and his buddies,I got to learn the routine real quick when they are young. Its NOT about the fishing, its about the experience.

Sat early 1/2 day trip. Windguru is calling for 5-10 WSW. Should be comfortable for them.

Pack tons of treats...all the $hit you dont want them eating....candy, etc....if they get antsy, it keeps em busy.

Tour the boat. Every Capt on this board will welcome them in the wheelhouse for a look see...its a rush for them to see it.

Talk to the mates and tell em its their first time. These guys are always willing to help.

Awesome watching the kids fish. A doggie we complain about hooking may as well be a 300lb mako to these kids! Take pix and enjoy

Re: First time fishing
 

check your pm's azatuchney!