5.0(3 Reviews)Expert-Guided Kids Fishing Trips at Anclote River Park
5.0(3 reviews)
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Kids ages 715 learn fishing techniques with USCG Master Captain JoshSixhour inshore trips departing Anclote River Park at 8amAll fishing equipment and expert guidance included for $125 per child
Looking for the perfect way to get your young angler hooked on fishing? Captain Josh's specialized kids fishing trips at Anclote River Park are designed specifically for children ages 7-15 who want to learn the ropes from a true pro. These aren't your typical "throw a line and hope" trips – they're hands-on fishing lessons wrapped up in a fun day on the water that'll have your kids talking about their catches for months.
These specialized trips run from 8 AM to 2 PM on select dates in March, giving young anglers plenty of time to master different techniques and land some serious fish. Captain Josh keeps groups small – just 4-6 kids per trip – so every child gets personal attention and coaching. The boat launches from Anclote River Park, and parents handle drop-off and pickup while Captain Josh takes care of everything else. He provides all the fishing gear, ice, and water, but you'll want to pack sunscreen, snacks, lunch, and drinks for the kids. Weather can change quickly on the water, so trips depend on conditions, but Captain Josh prioritizes safety while maximizing fishing time.
This isn't just babysitting with fishing rods – Captain Josh teaches kids legitimate angling techniques they'll use for years. Young anglers learn to read water, understand tidal movements, and master different casting methods depending on the target species. The inshore waters around Anclote River Park offer perfect conditions for learning because the fish are active and the environment is forgiving for beginners. Kids get hands-on experience with live bait fishing, artificial lures, and bottom fishing techniques. Captain Josh explains why certain baits work better at different times and teaches proper fish handling so kids learn respect for their catches. By the end of the trip, most young anglers can tie their own rigs and know the difference between a good fishing spot and just pretty water.
"I have gone with captian Josh quite a few times. Not only is he super knowledgeable about fishing honey holes. He is also very entertaining and alot of fun with adults and kids a like. Can I also add how well he works with kids! He is so passionate about passing knowledge on to the next generation. It is very admirable. Nordic is the ONLY charter I use and tell all my friends and family about." - Brett
"My son had a great time on the fishing trip with Captain Josh! We would definitely book this again in the future." - Jolene
"Where do I even start! Captain Josh was so caring and loving to my three kids. He understood that this wasn't just any other day for us. My son is on the spectrum and has multiple diagnosis, Josh was very patient with not just my son but my other two girls. The boat is kid friendly as well. I'd give more stars if I could. Thank you for having us and giving my kids this experience!!!" - Rachel Weisberg
Southern Kingcroaker are one of the most reliable catches for young anglers in these waters. These fish hang around sandy bottoms and grass flats, making that distinctive croaking sound when you pull them up – kids absolutely love hearing their catch "talk" to them. They're active year-round but really turn on during warmer months. Kingcroaker fight hard for their size and rarely let go once they grab your bait, giving kids plenty of time to feel the bite and set the hook properly. They're also excellent table fare, so families often take a few home for dinner.
Snook are the ultimate prize for young anglers because they're smart, strong, and put up an amazing fight. These fish love structure like docks, mangrove roots, and oyster bars around Anclote River Park. Spring and early summer offer the best action as snook move into shallow water to feed. Kids learn quickly that snook fishing requires patience and precision – these fish can be picky about presentation. When a young angler hooks their first snook and feels that head-shaking power, they understand why these fish are so prized by Florida anglers.
White Grunt might not sound exciting, but these fish are perfect teachers for young anglers learning proper technique. They bite consistently, fight respectably, and gather in schools, so once you find them, the action stays hot. White grunt hang around hard bottom areas and respond well to both live and cut bait. Kids love the rapid-fire action when a school moves in, and these fish help build confidence in young anglers who might be struggling with more finicky species.
Sea Trout offer young anglers their first taste of sight fishing and artificial lure techniques. These beautiful fish cruise grass flats in shallow water where kids can actually see their targets before casting. Spring through fall provides consistent action, with early morning and late afternoon being prime time. Sea trout have relatively soft mouths, so Captain Josh teaches kids proper hook-setting technique and how to fight fish without pulling the hook out. Their spotted flanks and bright colors make them photogenic catches that kids love showing off.
Redfish are every young angler's dream catch because they're aggressive, powerful, and absolutely gorgeous with their copper-bronze coloring and distinctive black spots. These fish patrol shallow flats and mangrove shorelines around Anclote River Park year-round, though they're most active during warmer months. Redfish aren't shy about crushing baits, giving kids that satisfying "thump" when they bite. They fight hard and long, teaching young anglers how to work a fish properly and use their drag system. Many kids catch their first redfish and immediately start planning their next trip to target them specifically.
At $125 per child, this top-rated fishing experience delivers serious value for young anglers ready to learn from a USCG Master Captain who genuinely cares about kids. Captain Josh's patience
Step aboard our 26-foot Carolina Skiff, perfectly rigged for young anglers ready to learn the ropes at Anclote River Park. This spacious fishing platform comfortably accommodates up to 6 kids, giving everyone plenty of room to cast lines and reel in their catches. The boat's wireless trolling motor lets us move quietly through the shallows without spooking the fish, while the fish finder helps locate schools hiding beneath the surface. GPS keeps us on track to the best fishing spots, and the VHF radio ensures we stay connected. Kids will love the onboard multimedia system during breaks between bites. With a live bait well keeping our bait fresh and lively, plus snorkeling gear for those curious about what's swimming below, this vessel has everything needed for a successful day on the water. The onboard toilet means no cutting fishing time short, and USCG Master Captain Josh provides all the tackle and expertise to turn beginners into confident anglers.
Sciaenops OcellatusRedfish are the perfect inshore species for young anglers - they're aggressive, fight hard, and grow big. Most run 20-30 inches, but we see plenty pushing 40+ inches. They love super shallow water, often with their backs showing, around oyster bars, grass flats, and mangroves. Year-round fishing is good here, but fall and spring are prime time. What makes them special is that distinctive black spot near the tail and their willingness to eat almost anything. They're also great on the table when kept in the slot. The key is staying quiet and watching for tailing fish. Topwater plugs at dawn create explosive strikes, but live shrimp and soft plastics work all day. My secret: look for nervous baitfish - reds are usually nearby.
Salmo TruttaSpotted sea trout, or specks as we call them, are perfect targets for kids - they run 14-24 inches and love to bite. Look for them over grass flats and shallow bays, especially at first light and dusk. They're most active in spring and fall when water temps are comfortable. What makes them popular is they fight well on light tackle and taste great - mild, flaky meat that's hard to mess up cooking. They're also pretty forgiving to catch. Live shrimp under a popping cork is the classic setup, but soft plastics work great too. Pro tip: work the edges of grass beds where they ambush baitfish. During winter they school up in deeper channels, so adjust your depth accordingly. Keep them on ice right away to preserve that delicate flavor.
Centropomus UndecimalisSnook are the ultimate inshore gamefish around here, averaging 1-2 feet but capable of hitting 4 feet. They love hanging around mangroves, docks, and shallow structure in our estuaries - anywhere from 2-60 feet deep. Spring through fall is peak season, especially around the new and full moons when they're most active. What makes them special is that explosive strike and strong fight - they'll test your drag for sure. Plus, they're excellent table fare with flaky white meat. They're ambush predators that hit fast, so be ready. My go-to trick is working soft plastics and topwater lures around cover early morning or late evening. Remember, they're temperature sensitive, so cooler days in winter slow them down considerably.
Menticirrhus AmericanusSouthern Kingcroaker, or kingfish as most folks call them, are solid inshore targets running 9-12 inches on average. They hang out in sandy areas and surf zones, feeding on shrimp, crabs, and mollusks with their downward-facing mouths. Spring and summer are prime time when they move closer to shore. What makes them special is that distinctive "croaking" sound they make when you pull them up - kids always get a kick out of that. The meat is firm and mild, great eating. They're not picky about artificial lures, but fresh cut bait like shrimp or clam works best. Pro tip: listen for that thrumming sound underwater - it means you're in the right spot. Use a medium-light rod with 1.5-3 ounce sinkers depending on current.
Haemulon PlumieriiWhite Grunts are reliable fish that kids love catching - they're active, willing biters averaging 6-12 inches. You'll find them around reefs, docks, and mangroves from the surface down to about 100 feet, though we usually target them in shallower water. They're year-round residents but more active in warmer months. What makes them fun is that famous grunting sound they make when caught - always gets the kids laughing. They're also excellent eating with sweet, flaky white meat. Since they're opportunistic feeders, almost any bait works - shrimp, squid, or small pieces of cut fish. The key is keeping your bait near the bottom where they feed. Small hooks and light tackle make the fight more fun for young anglers.
5.0 out of 5.0I have gone with captian Josh quite a few times. Not only is he super knowledgeable about fishing honey holes. He is also very ent...
My son had a great time on the fishing trip with Captain Josh! We would definitely book this again in the future.
jay was awesome cant wait tomhave him out again!
Where do I even start! Captain Josh was so caring and loving to my three kids. He understood that this wasn't just any other day f...
Tampa, FL