Family & Kid Fishing Trips

One fishing destination that should be on everyone’s list is the Gulf State Park Fishing & Education Pier, which offers a great fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels. Depending on the time of year, a variety of species can be caught from the pier – sheepshead, redfish, Spanish mackerel, pompano, whiting, flounder, and speckled trout. Families can also rent gear like rods and tackle at the pier’s bait shop.

Each year, the pier holds Angler Academy, a beginner’s guide to saltwater fishing with instruction on how to catch a big one, or a little one, at the pier. The instructions will start with Alabama’s fishing rules and regulations, and with the tackle needed for success. Participants will practice tying essential knots, choosing the best hooks, and using the bait. 

The word has spread about how great the surf fishing is along Alabama’s sugar sand beaches, and it’s another kid-friendly opportunity to catch fish. If you’re heading in from upstate or out of state, bring a few bass fishing rods, and you’ll be fine for most surf fishing. If you want to get serious, you can bring the 10-foot rods and big weights for casting well into the Gulf, but most anglers do fine with 7-foot rods and 10- to 12-pound test line.

With that surf drawing the kids' attention, it may be hard to get them to be patient and let the fish find the bait and bite. The solution is to involve the youngsters in gathering the bait. Local bait stores and other retailers sell bait rakes to use at the water’s edge to rake up sand fleas (mole crabs) to catch whiting and pompano, with an occasional redfish or other species mixed in. 

If a kid hooks a hardhead catfish, the adults need to unhook the fish carefully. Those hardheads have sharp spines on the fins, so handle them carefully. Depending on the time of year, try to find a stretch of beach that is a little less crowded to have fun fishing in the surf.

If you want a fun family outing on the water, consider booking an inshore charter boat that specializes in family fishing. Several local guides cater to families and kids who are new to fishing. Many of these charters make sure the kiddos reel in a catch and get photos of themselves holding the fish with the family. A short, inshore charter trip is ideal for little ones as the boat doesn’t travel far out into the Gulf. When booking a charter with kids, consider amenities like air-conditioned cabins, trip length, and charter size.