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Kids' Inshore Fishing Adventure in Santa Rosa
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Santa Rosa Beach, FL
- $430 - $700 price range
Summary
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Fishing Fun for Kids
Great catches and even greater river views.
Fresh air, fun vibes, and fishing lines.
Calm water, productive day.
Redfish hiding in Choctawhatchee Bay.
Casting lines on Ottawa’s peaceful river today.
Scenic waters, big catches, happy anglers.
Smiles and fish—perfect day on the river.
Catching trout never felt this rewarding before.
Ottawa’s fishing spots never disappoint anglers
Expert-guided trips for anglers of every level.
Great catches and even greater river views.
Fresh air, fun vibes, and fishing lines.
Calm water, productive day.
Redfish hiding in Choctawhatchee Bay.
Casting lines on Ottawa’s peaceful river today.
Scenic waters, big catches, happy anglers.
Smiles and fish—perfect day on the river.
Catching trout never felt this rewarding before.
Ottawa’s fishing spots never disappoint anglers
Expert-guided trips for anglers of every level.
Great catches and even greater river views.
Fresh air, fun vibes, and fishing lines.
Calm water, productive day.
Redfish hiding in Choctawhatchee Bay.
Kid-Friendly Fishing Fun in Santa Rosa Beach
Get ready for a splash of family fun on the calm waters of Choctawhatchee Bay! Our 2-hour afternoon kids' special is tailor-made for young anglers looking to wet a line and maybe catch their first fish. Whether you've got a budding pro or a first-timer, this trip is all about sparking that love for fishing in a safe, laid-back setting. We'll cruise the scenic shorelines, drop some lines, and who knows - your kiddo might just out-fish the grown-ups!
Trip Overview
Picture this: you and your crew (up to 6 folks) hopping aboard our comfy boat for a couple hours of pure fishing enjoyment. We've designed this trip with kids aged 4-17 in mind, but let's be real - mom and dad, you'll have a blast too! We'll putter around the protected waters of Choctawhatchee Bay, where the fish are plentiful and the views are postcard-worthy. No need to sweat the small stuff - we've got all the gear, know-how, and patience to ensure everyone has a great time. And hey, no fishing licenses required for the kiddos, so it's hassle-free fun from start to finish.
Baits, Boats, and Big Smiles
On this trip, we keep things simple and fun. We'll use light tackle that's easy for small hands to handle, with a mix of live bait and artificial lures to see what the fish are biting on that day. Our captain will show the kids how to cast, reel, and set the hook - essential skills for any angler. We'll drift along grass flats, toss lines near docks, and maybe even try a little bottom fishing. The key here is patience and lots of encouragement. Every nibble is exciting, and every catch is a big deal, even if it's just a little pinfish. It's all catch-and-release, so we'll make sure to snap some quick pics before sending our finned friends back home.
What to Expect on the Water
Choctawhatchee Bay is like nature's own fishing classroom. The water's usually pretty calm, making it perfect for kids who might get a bit queasy on choppy seas. We'll cruise around, picking spots where fish like to hang out - maybe near some oyster beds or along a grassy shoreline. The boat's got plenty of shade and comfy seats, so everyone stays cool and comfy. Our captain's always got an eye out for dolphins, ospreys, and other cool wildlife that call the bay home. Between casts, we'll share some local stories and maybe even a corny fish joke or two (hey, someone's gotta do it). And don't worry if the fish aren't biting right away - half the fun is just being out on the water together.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Sheepshead: These striped bandits are like the underwater version of raccoons - they're crafty and love to steal bait. Kids get a kick out of their human-like teeth (yep, you read that right). Sheepshead hang around structures like docks and pilings, and they put up a good fight for their size. Spring's usually the best time to catch 'em, but they're around most of the year.
Sea Trout: Also known as speckled trout, these guys are a bay fishing favorite. They've got a beautiful spotted pattern and can range from little guys to some real whoppers. Sea trout love to chase lures, which makes for some exciting fishing action. They're most active in the cooler months, but you can catch them year-round if you know where to look.
Redfish: Now we're talking about a real crowd-pleaser. Redfish, or red drum, are known for that distinctive spot on their tail. They're tough fighters and can grow to some impressive sizes. Kids love the thrill of reeling one in, and the smaller ones are perfect for young anglers to handle. Fall is prime time for reds, but they're a staple catch throughout the year.
Ladyfish: These are the acrobats of the bay. Ladyfish are known for their spectacular leaps and runs when hooked, which is why some folks call them "poor man's tarpon." They're not the biggest fish in the sea, but what they lack in size they make up for in entertainment value. Ladyfish are often around in the warmer months and are a blast for kids to catch and release.
Why Families Keep Coming Back
There's something special about watching a kid's face light up when they feel that first tug on the line. Maybe it's the thrill of the unknown, or the pride of reeling in their very own catch. Whatever it is, it's the kind of magic that turns a simple afternoon into a memory that'll last a lifetime. Our trips are more than just fishing - they're about spending quality time together, unplugged from screens and tuned into nature. Plus, let's be honest, there's nothing quite like the bragging rights that come with out-fishing your parents!
Time to Book Your Spot
So, are you ready to make some waves (okay, gentle ripples) in Choctawhatchee Bay? Our 2-hour kids' special is the perfect way to dip your toes into the world of inshore fishing. Whether you're locals looking for a new family tradition or visitors wanting to add some adventure to your beach vacation, we've got you covered. Remember, spaces are limited to keep things cozy and personal, so don't wait to book your spot. Grab your sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and maybe a snack or two - it's time to make some fishy memories in Santa Rosa Beach!
Learn more about the species
Ladyfish
Ladyfish, or poor man's tarpon, are a fun catch for light tackle. They're long and slender, usually topping out around 3 feet and 30 pounds. You'll find them in coastal areas, bays, and even up in streams. They're not picky eaters, so try small baitfish, shrimp, or jigs. These guys are known for their acrobatics - expect lots of jumps and skips across the surface when hooked. They're around all year, but summer's usually best. While they're not great eating, ladyfish make for exciting sport, especially for kids or beginners. Here's a local trick: use a heavy mono leader since they thrash around so much. And watch those teeth - they're small but sharp!
Redfish
Redfish are a blast to catch and a favorite for many anglers here. They usually run 28-33 inches when full grown, but can get much bigger - the record is a whopping 94 pounds! Look for them in super shallow water, sometimes with their backs sticking out. They love hanging around oyster reefs, grass flats, and structures like old piers. Redfish will eat just about anything, making them fun to target. Try topwater lures for some exciting strikes, or go with shrimp imitations. They put up a great fight and taste delicious too. Here's a tip: focus on areas with 1-4 feet of water, especially over mud bottoms. And keep an eye out for that distinctive black tail spot - it's actually there to confuse predators!
Sea Trout
Sea trout, or speckled trout, are a favorite around here. They usually run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds, though some monsters push 40. Look for them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They're suckers for artificial lures - try jerk baits, topwater plugs, or plastic shrimp. In winter, they school up in deeper water, so adjust your tactics. Sea trout put up a nice fight and make for some good eating with their mild, flaky meat. Just don't overcook it or it'll get mushy. One local trick: troll slowly along grass flats if you're having trouble finding them. These fish are active year-round, but fall and spring tend to be prime times when the water temperature is just right.
Sheepshead
Sheepshead are real characters of the bay, with those human-like teeth and convict stripes. They usually hang around 1-8 pounds but can hit 20 if you're lucky. You'll find 'em near any structure - docks, bridges, reefs. They love munching on barnacles and crabs, so that's where to look. Spring's the hot time when they spawn in big groups. Sheepshead put up a good fight and taste great, but cleaning them can be tricky with those tough scales. Here's a tip: use light tackle and get your bait right up against the pilings. When you feel that nibble, set the hook hard - these guys are notorious bait stealers. It takes some practice, but landing a big sheepshead is always satisfying.
About the Tran Sport Boats
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 46
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 200
