Fishing with kids

Question

I have 3 boys (15,13 and 11) and they dream of being able to catch a lot of fish/crab / other sea life and eat their own catch.

I have zero experience with fishing but since we live in Atlanta, I was thinking of taking them to the GA coast for a fishing trip. We can’t afford more than few hours in a boat fishing trip. So what are good areas to fish or crabbing? Are there any hotels/condos/ airbnbs with a channel/pier or places that are pretty easy to really catch something?

Is there any crabbing or getting oyster or something like that?

I guess I just need advice on how to plan/ where to go for a fishing trip that is not a failure.

Thank you so much

Answer

It’s wonderful that you're planning a fishing trip for your boys! The Georgia coast offers a great variety of options for both fishing and crabbing, even for beginners. Here are some suggestions for making sure your trip is a success and your kids can catch plenty of fish, crabs, or other sea life.

### Best Areas for Fishing and Crabbing

Tybee Island - Just outside Savannah, Tybee Island is one of the most popular fishing destinations on the Georgia coast. It has a beautiful beach, a pier, and access to saltwater fishing right off the shore. There’s also a strong local fishing community, so you’ll be able to find charters that can help your boys fish off the pier or on a small boat. Tybee’s Back River is also a great spot for crabbing and fishing.
St. Simons Island - This island in the Golden Isles offers both inshore and offshore fishing. There are many places along the shoreline where you can easily fish from the dock or pier, and St. Simons is also known for its crabbing opportunities. For families, there are several boat rental places where you can fish on the water or even try your hand at collecting oysters.
Jekyll Island - Known for its beautiful beaches and natural areas, Jekyll Island is another great spot for families to fish. You can fish from the pier at Jekyll Island Pier or take a short boat trip to fish in the tidal creeks. There’s also crabbing along the shore, and you can rent equipment from local shops.
Sapelo Island - If you’re looking for more of an off-the-beaten-path experience, Sapelo Island offers great fishing, crabbing, and even clam harvesting. It’s a more remote destination, but you can access it by ferry, making it a fun adventure for the family.

### Accommodations with Fishing Access

Condos or Airbnbs with Pier Access - Several condos and vacation homes in the Golden Isles offer easy access to fishing piers or docks. Look for places on or near the Back River in Tybee Island, the Frederica River on St. Simons Island, or near the Jekyll Island Pier. Some properties even offer private docks where you can fish right from your accommodations.
Hotel Suggestions - The Holiday Inn Resort on Jekyll Island offers direct beach access and has family-friendly amenities. Similarly, the King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort on St. Simons Island offers a beautiful setting with access to both beach and pier fishing.

### Crabbing and Oysters

Crabbing - Crabbing is very popular along the Georgia coast, especially in the tidal marshes. You can go crabbing off the piers in Tybee Island, Jekyll Island, and St. Simons Island, or you can even go crabbing in the marshes by renting a small boat. Just make sure you’re aware of local regulations, such as limits on the number of crabs you can catch per day and size requirements.
Oysters - You can also harvest oysters in certain areas along the coast, but you’ll need to be familiar with the local rules and seasons. Some areas, like the Sapelo Island area, offer opportunities for clam and oyster harvesting if you’re interested in trying your hand at shellfishing.

### Additional Tips

Guided Tours - Since you mentioned having zero fishing experience, booking a short guided fishing trip can help ensure you and your kids have a great time. Local guides will provide the gear and knowledge you need, so you’re more likely to catch something and have a fun experience. Most guided trips are around 3 to 4 hours and are fairly affordable for families.
Renting Gear - If you don’t want to buy all the gear, many local shops rent out rods, reels, and crabbing equipment. Be sure to check with the local tackle shops on Tybee, St. Simons, or Jekyll Island.
Safety and Regulations - Be aware of local fishing and crabbing regulations. For example, you’ll need a Georgia fishing license if you plan to fish from the shore (but not for crabbing off the pier). You can typically buy a short-term fishing license online or from local shops.

With some planning and a little guidance, you’re sure to have a successful fishing trip where your boys can catch plenty of fish and enjoy the experience. There’s nothing quite like the excitement of reeling in a fish or catching a crab, and Savannah’s Golden Isles offer the perfect setting for that! Enjoy your trip!

Fishing with kids

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