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 sounds like you’re planning a fantastic trip with your boys! The Georgia coast is a great destination for a family fishing adventure, and there are plenty of opportunities for both beginner and more experienced fishers. Here’s a breakdown of the best options for fishing, crabbing, and finding places to stay that are close to the water:

Since you have no prior fishing experience, it’s a good idea to start with spots that are beginner-friendly and don’t require a lot of technical know-how. Thankfully, there are several locations along the Golden Isles of Georgia that are perfect for families and offer various types of fishing experiences, including pier fishing, shore fishing, and boat fishing.

Jekyll Island – This island is one of the most family-friendly destinations along the coast. You can find pier fishing at places like the Jekyll Island Fishing Pier or the Jekyll Island Marina. The pier is ideal for fishing from land, and you don’t need a boat to catch something. You can also rent equipment or join a short, guided fishing tour if you want a little more help. Additionally, crabbing is a popular activity here, and you can try your luck near the tidal pools and salt marshes.
St. Simons Island – Just a short drive from Jekyll, St. Simons Island offers some excellent shore fishing spots, including the St. Simons Island Pier and the Gould’s Inlet Beach. Many of the vacation rentals on the island also have access to canals, and some even have piers where you can fish right from your accommodation. The island has great access to both saltwater fishing and crabbing. You can even book a half-day fishing charter for an affordable price, which will give your boys a chance to learn how to fish from an experienced captain.
Brunswick – If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, Brunswick has some great piers and fishing spots that are very easy to access. The Golden Isles Marina has fishing docks, and the nearby tidal creeks offer easy access for kids. You might also want to check out the Brunswick Landing Marina for a quieter spot where you can fish off the docks. For crabbing, you can purchase crabbing equipment locally and try crabbing right off the shores or at low tide in the marshes.

In terms of accommodation, there are several options for staying near the water:

Airbnb – Look for homes or condos on Jekyll Island or St. Simons Island that have a private pier or direct access to tidal creeks. This will allow you to fish or crab from the comfort of your accommodation. Many vacation rentals in these areas cater to families and provide easy access to fishing spots, whether from the shore or a private dock.
Jekyll Island Campground – If you want a more affordable option with easy access to the beach, the Jekyll Island Campground offers both tent camping and cabins, with a short walk to the pier and beach areas. You’ll be able to fish and crab right from the shore and enjoy the outdoors with your kids.
Resorts or Hotels with Marinas – Consider staying at a resort with its own marina, like the Sea Island Resort on St. Simons Island. This will give you easy access to fishing and crabbing without needing to leave the property. Resorts often have their own guided tours for fishing, and some will offer family-friendly activities like crabbing excursions.

When it comes to crabbing and oyster collecting, these activities are often available through local charters or tours. You can inquire at the Jekyll Island marina or St. Simons Island about local guides who offer crabbing excursions. The marshes and tidal creeks along the Georgia coast are known for their abundance of blue crabs and oysters, and some guides will provide you with all the gear you need.

Overall, it sounds like you’re planning a fun trip, and with some research into family-friendly fishing spots and accommodations, you’ll have an unforgettable experience. Make sure to check local fishing regulations for the area (such as limits and seasons) and have your fishing licenses ready before you head out. Best of luck, and enjoy your time on the Georgia coast!

Fishing with kids

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