Keeping your little ones happy on the water

Many of our guests, past and current, have had the experience of going out fishing with their parents when they were young, and can now share that experience with their own children. Whether it meant sitting in the freezing rain in an open aluminum 14’ boat or cozied up in the heated cabin of a 30-footer, those are memories that last a lifetime and a tradition that many hope to continue.

However, it’s not always easy to keep your kids happy on the boat and with the discomfort that occasionally comes with fishing long hours in variable weather, you want to avoid making it too miserable and turning your kids off fishing completely. Here are a few simple tips to help make that experience fun and something they want to keep doing.

1. Bring extra clothing

a. No matter when or where you are fishing, or what kind of boat you’re on, there is always opportunity for harsh weather.

b. Bring a few spare changes of clothes and plan for a variety of conditions, prioritizing sun protection and warm/waterproof clothing.

c. Plus, most importantly, bring a lifejacket properly sized for your little one. Lifejackets can be uncomfortable, especially if they are not used to wearing one, so try to throw it on while around the house or outdoors to help them adjust.

2. Keep them occupied

a. If your boat has autopilot, turn it on while trolling and sit them in the front seat to let them “drive” the boat.

b. For older kids: with assistance from a mechanical puller, let them bring in the rope when pulling prawn or crab traps.

c. Bring a few toys or books and let them play with some of the gear on the boat such as measuring tapes, buckets, fishing lures (no hooks!).

d. Pick up an age-appropriate fishing rod so they can practice their hand at casting off the boat or just dangling a lure in the water, and reeling it back in.

3. Plan for naps and other idle time

a. Bring a blanket or extra hoodie to keep them cozy during naps.

b. Make sure they have somewhere secure to sit/be put down. For infants: a car seat is great because it will gently rock with the movement of the boat. Ideal for helping baby to nap! For older toddlers and kids, plan a spot for nap time such as the v-berth of the boat, or maybe just in your arms if someone else is available to reel in the fish for a while.

4. Snacks

a. Try to pack a variety of snacks that are easy to eat on the boat, not too messy, and avoid excessive sugar to limit sugar crashes and tantrums.

b. Bring a few different drinks to keep them occupied and hydrated (milk, hot chocolate in a thermos, juice, etc.)

Recipe ideas:

- Peanut butter roll ups: spread peanut butter and jam on a tortilla. Roll it up and cut into bite size pieces. Instead of jam, top with other things like chia seeds, nuts, dried fruit, banana.

- Cheese, deli meat or smoked meats like pepperoni, and crackers.

- Egg muffins: combine eggs, cheese, bacon, and any veggies you wish to add and pour into mini muffin tins. Bake at 350 for 10-15 minutes until the egg is set.

5. Don’t forget to take care of yourself, mom and dad!

a. Caring for your children takes a lot of time and effort, make sure to keep yourself well hydrated and fed, and bring some extra clothes too.

Let us know if you have any tips or suggestions to add. Get out there and have some fun!