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Fishing with kids is more than just casting lines and catching fish—it’s a chance to slow down, connect with nature, and create lasting memories together. Here we’ll explore tips to help make your family fishing trips successful and enjoyable for anglers of all ages.

At Stuart Sport Fishing, we love helping families create unforgettable on-the-water adventures. Our experienced crew knows how to make young anglers feel confident, safe, and excited—whether it’s their first time holding a rod or they’re already reeling in big ones. We provide all the gear, guidance, and encouragement you need to make your family trip one they’ll talk about for years. Ready to make fishing memories with your little ones? Book your trip today

7 simple tips to get your kids out fishing and having fun outdoors. Just a little bit of prepping for your kids to catch their first fish.

Fishing is a fantastic activity that gets your kids outside and interacting with the environment. With a little preparation and patience, you will have your kids catching their first fish in no time. Building memories on the water is very rewarding, and we have some ways to help make it super simple. Here are my top tips for successfully fishing with kids.

1. Plan your Trip with Kids in Mind

As a parent or caregiver, you know that plenty of unexpected events can put the damper on a fun trip. Make your first fishing trip easy by finding a spot close to home with bathroom access and enough open space for kids to cast. Public fishing piers and longer beach accesses are ideal. To find fishing spot near you, check out the Places to Boat & Fish Map and the Top Mom-Approved Places to Fish and Boat in the US.

2. Always Bring Life Jackets

Everyone should be wearing a life jacket as they learn to fish, including you! Even when you are fishing from shore, wearing a lifejacket develops safety habits. Also, bring along, hats, a pocket sized first aid kit and enough water and snacks for an enjoyable day.

3. Target Easy Fish

Do not go for trophy sized game fish when you take kids fishing. These species take more skill and patience than children are comfortable with. You should focus on targeting the most populated and actively feeding species. Panfish and trout are a good place to start. They can be found right next to the dock or weed beds adjacent to the shoreline. Rig up a basic hook, sinker and bobber. You can find this tackle in the Tailored Tackle Basic Fishing Kit. We recommend baiting a pinch of nightcrawler or small ball of bread.

4. Fishing Isn’t Boring

While not catching fish can be discouraging, especially to a young angler, there are many ways to go out ‘fishing’ and have fun without ‘catching’. When they’ve tired of casting, encourage them to poke around the river bank. They can look for critters, collect rocks, and get dirty. Playing with worms, launching leaf “boats” into the water, or even just taking a break and going for a walk can help younger anglers stay engaged. And don’t make your first excursion an all-day affair. An hour or two of casting, depending on the child’s age, will likely be just enough to keep them wanting more!

5. Teach them to Be Gentle

For kids under 12, you should be the only one releasing fish. Show them how to remove the hook, submerge the fish in water, and resuscitate by working the fish’s tail. Kids over 12 will have hands large enough to release fish on their own, however emphasize gentle release by submerging the fish. Children may panic the first time they hold a fish (it’s slimy! It moved!) so ensure your larger adult hands are cupping the child’s to ensure the fish isn’t thrown or dropped by accident.

6. Selfless Patience Creates New Anglers

Focus on giving your kid an amazing fishing experience. Your goal is to create a new angler who can enjoy the water with you for the rest of their lives. Fishing can be frustrating and feel slow going if the fish aren’t biting. It is your job to make it easier and exciting. While it may take a bit of work in the beginning, the reward is a new fishing partner. When their pole gets tangled, give them yours to keep them fishing while you fix it. If the bite slows down, go adventure along the shoreline or play in the water. You want them to associate fishing with fun. As you keep them interested in the sport, they will advance and learn to appreciate it as they grow.

7. Follow the Rules

Make sure you are aware of your state’s regulations before your family goes out fishing. The good news is that Take Me Fishing has an amazing License and Registration tool that makes getting a license and following the rules easy.

Ready to turn your family outing into an unforgettable adventure? There’s nothing quite like the joy of watching your child’s face light up with their first catch—or simply enjoying a peaceful day together on the water. At Stuart Sport Fishing, we believe these are the moments that matter most. Whether you’re new to fishing or making it a family tradition, our crew is here to make every trip easy, fun, and unforgettable. Let’s get you out on the water—plan your next family fishing adventure today! Call at 772-202-0623. Dive deeper into our Instagram here.

Reference: [https://www.takemefishing.org/blog/november-2019/7-tips-for-fishing-with-kids/]

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Beyond the thrill of the catch, fishing offers significant mental well-being benefits. Casting a line provides an escape from stress, promoting mindfulness and a deep connection with nature. Read on to see how fishing can boost your mental health.

Ready to get out here and experience some tranquility in your soul? At Stuart Sport Fishing, we are the ultimate destination for offshore fishing enthusiasts. Our fishing charters are based in Stuart, Florida, which is known as the sailfish capital of the world. Our 36 Contender Center Console, captained by Chris Britton, is the perfect fishing platform for your favorite type of offshore fishing. Whether you are an experienced angler targeting a trophy fish or a novice looking to catch whatever is biting today, we have the trip for you!

Many of us crave outdoor experiences on or near the water, but do we know why fishing for mental health can be so beneficial? The short answer is, we do. There are published studies that highlight the scientific evidence behind the ways in which stress relief through fishing and the outdoors can have a positive impact on our well-being.

Check out some of the amazing mental health benefits (backed by research) that are associated with being on or near the water:

1. Fishing reduces stress and enhances mood. According to the National Library of Medicine, recreational fishing has been associated with lower stress levels and improved mood. One study on recreational fishing, health and well-being found that avid anglers reported up to 15.4% lower stress scores compared to less active anglers.

2. Being outdoors improves mental well-being. Spending time in nature, including activities like fishing, can enhance overall mental well-being. Research highlighted by the American Psychological Association outlines how exposure to natural environments is linked to improved mood, a reduction in anxiety (the benefits of fishing for anxiety are proven), cognitive benefits, and a decrease in negative emotions.

3. There is a direct connection between mindfulness and fishing. Fishing requires focus and patience, which fosters a state of mindfulness. The meditative aspect of time in nature leads to relaxation and stress relief, which contributes positively to mental health. According to an article published by the National Alliance on Mental Illness, fishing can remind us of the importance of making deliberate choices for our well-being.

4. Outdoor activities can encourage positive social connections. Participating in fishing often involves social interactions, which are very beneficial for mental health and longevity (check out the National Library of Medicine research on social relations and life satisfaction). Engaging in outdoor activities with others can improve social bonds, boost self-esteem, and provide a source of emotional support.

5. Fishing provides outdoor physical activity. Fishing is a form of physical activity that is accessible to many, including individuals with disabilities or those recovering from illness. When we can engage in outdoor activities that improve our physical health, there are additional positive mental health outcomes that follow (reference the research on Mental Health and Recreational Angling in the UK).

These findings underscore why fishing for mental health is more important than we may have previously thought. Now is a good time to encourage your family and friends to enjoy the benefits of stress reduction, mindfulness, social interaction, physical activity, and overall well-being through fishing – or relax with a few hours of quiet time on the water yourself.

Ready to cast your worries away and reel in some calm? Grab your rod and head to a truly refreshing experience on a fishing charter! Book your charter at 772-202-0623. Dive deeper into our Instagram here.

Reference: [https://www.takemefishing.org/blog/april-2025/why-fishing-for-mental-health-is-more-important-than-you-might-think/]

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If you’ve just returned from fishing, preparing your catch properly is the next essential step. Cleaning the fish involves removing the scales and internal organs, a process that ensures a cleaner, safer, and better-tasting meal. This guide will provide some basic tips on how to effectively clean the fish you’ve caught, preparing it for your next delicious dish.

Our fishing charters are based in Stuart, Florida, which is known as the sailfish capital of the world. Our 36 Contender Center Console, captained by Chris Britton, is the perfect fishing platform for your favorite type of offshore fishing. Whether you are an experienced angler targeting a trophy fish or a novice looking to catch whatever is biting today, we have the trip for you!

For the best possible meal, start by treating the fish right from the moment you land it. If you’re going to eat your catch, you have to keep it fresh, even before you begin cleaning your fish. Keep caught fish in a live well, a cooler or on a stringer in the water. And always fill your cooler or live well with the same water you’re fishing in.

If you’re not going to eat your catch, unhook it carefully—while it’s still in the water—and release it using proper catch and release practices.

How to Clean a Fish: Steps

If you are planning on cooking your fish whole or if you are going to steak it, rather than filleting it, you must learn how to gut a fish.

To begin, rest the fish on the table or cutting board. Insert the knife tip into the fish’s belly near the anal opening and move the blade up along the belly, cutting to the head.
Keep the knife blade shallow so you don’t puncture the intestines.
Spread the body open and remove all of the entrails, locate the fish’s anus and cut this out in a “V” or notch shape.
Some fish have a kidney by the backbone. Remove it by scraping it out with a spoon or your thumbnail.
Rinse the cavity out with a good stream of water and wash the skin. Some fish have a dark tissue lining the abdominal cavity that can be scraped off to prevent a strong, oily flavor.
Remove the head if you like, trout are often cooked with the head on.
Clean your fish-cleaning table immediately, collect the guts, heads, and scales, and discard them properly.
Your clean fish is now ready to be cooked.

How to Clean a Fish: Tips and Warnings

Research the area you’re fishing to determine if the fish are safe to eat, some bodies of water are polluted with mercury and other heavy metals that fish absorb. Always check your state regulations before your head out fishing.

Now that you have a clean fish, or prepared your steaks or fillets, you can store your fish or cook your fish! Check out our favorite cooking methods and recipes as well.

Fish fins can be very sharp and cause serious puncture wounds, so be very careful when learning how to gut a fish, fillet a fish or clean a fish whole.
Some fish are too bony or strong flavored to be considered edible.
Some fish have very sharp teeth, be careful if you’re holding a fish by the head while cleaning your fish.

Reel in your dream catch with our experienced captains on a fishing charter! Book your charter at 772-202-0623 and get ready to prepare your fresh meal! Our experienced crew can help you bottom fish for huge Mutton Snapper, slow pitch jig for trophy Amberjack, and fly a kite for a bucket list of Sailfish, all in the same trip! No other fishery in the world offers all of these types of Charter fishing in the same trip. Dive deeper into our Instagram here.

Reference: [https://www.takemefishing.org/how-to-fish/how-to-catch-fish/how-to-clean-a-fish/]

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Reeling in a fish is more than just turning a handle; it’s a delicate dance between angler and adversary. This guide breaks down essential techniques to smoothly bring your prize aboard.

Once you successfully set the hook, the fish instinctively struggles to get free. This might involve jumping, making a long run, swimming back against the line or swimming around obstacles. Each species of fish reacts differently. Fish hooked in shallow water are more likely to jump and behave more frantically than those hooked in deep water. Deep-water fish often seek the bottom.

How to Reel in Fish Properly

Because bigger fish pull harder, reeling in a big fish is often a challenge for most anglers, including experienced pros. The first sign that you’ve hooked a big one is the sound the reel makes when it speeds into reverse, taking line off your fishing reel while you are holding it tightly. Here is where you must remember your fishing reel techniques such as how to play a fish by not reeling in the line while the fish is swimming away. Other useful fishing reel tips for anglers just learning how to fish include:

Relax and let the drag and rod do the work. Just keep the fishing rod up at about a 45-degree angle to the water, aim it straight towards the fish, and be ready to reel when the drag stops moving and buzzing.
When the fish slows down and stops taking line off your reel, it’s time to go to work. When learning how to reel in a fish of greater size, a great technique to try is the pump and reel.
Without reeling the fish in, lift the tip of the rod up like you’re trying to point it skyward to about 90 degrees. A stronger, or heavier fish will often put a major bend in your fishing rod, but don’t worry this is normal.
Then reel as you lower the rod tip back down to about 45 degrees, keeping even pressure on the fish.
Repeat this process.

Want to put these reeling techniques to the test? Join our experienced captains on a fishing charter and learn how to reel in your dream catch! Call us today at 772-202-0623 and create lasting memories. Dive deeper into our Instagram here.

Reference: [https://www.takemefishing.org/how-to-fish/how-to-catch-fish/how-to-reel-in-fish/]

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Experience the thrill of saltwater fishing in comfort and style. Whether you’re chasing trophy fish or enjoying a laid-back day on the water, the right clothing can make all the difference. From breathable shirts that keep you cool under the sun to quick-dry shorts that handle splashes with ease, dressing smartly ensures you stay comfortable and focused. Don’t forget polarized sunglasses to cut through the glare and a wide-brim hat for sun protection. This guide will help you select the perfect gear for your next fishing adventure.

The only thing that stands between you and raw saltwater conditions are the clothes on your back. From extreme heat to extreme cold, modern outdoor saltwater clothing will protect you from the different elements.

Even on a bright sunny day, you can get soaking wet from salt spray, especially when deep sea fishing. A good set of foul weather fishing clothing is required attire on any saltwater fishing trip. Breathable materials have their place, but in the wet world of offshore fishing, nothing beats a set of PVC bibs, boots and rain jacket. Deep sea fishing clothing consisting of PVC attire will keep you dry and clean all day, and you can simply rinse it off and hang it to dry so it is ready for your next trip.

Suitable Saltwater Fishing Clothes

If you fish in the surf or from a kayak, a good pair of saltwater waders will be the key to comfort. In water that is warmer than 65 degrees, a quality pair of breathable saltwater waders will be as comfortable as your favorite jeans. In cold water, neoprene waders will keep you comfortably warm. Look for saltwater waders with reinforced knees, seat and booties. Boot foot waders are cheaper, but bulkier and heavier than stocking foot waders that require a separate boot. Even if you’re fishing in warm water, a solid pair of wading boots will protect your feet.

Saltwater Clothing for Sun Protection

The most dangerous condition you’ll face on the water isn’t wind or waves, but the sun. Sunburn isn’t just uncomfortable — it could lead to skin cancer. The best way to shield yourself from the sun isn’t by wearing some form of saltwater clothing, but rather by wearing sunscreen. Of course, there are ways to use clothing to protect yourself and stay cool, like by wearing a loose-fitting, lightweight long-sleeved shirt and long pants. Fabrics that have an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) greater than 40 will protect you from the sun all day. The newest generation of fabrics is designed to dry very quickly and cool the skin, making such materials an excellent choice of saltwater clothing. Add a wide-brimmed, well-ventilated hat, and you’re wearing your own personal air conditioner.

A good pair of sunglasses will protect your eyes from the sun’s rays and help you catch more fish. Look for high-quality polarized lenses with wraparound frames to cut through the sun’s glare and see fish and structure below the water. The best fishing shades will have a thick frame that blocks light from entering the eyes. Grey lenses are best in bright conditions with clear water, while amber lenses work better in low light or cloudy, off-colored water. Some anglers even go so far as to wear light-colored gloves and a face mask to completely block out the sun.

Saltwater Clothing For Cold Weather

Some of the best fishing is done in some of the coldest weather. Today’s high-tech fabrics allow you to layer on warmth without a lot of bulk. Start with a base layer of breathable fabric that will wick moisture away from the skin. Add a mid-layer of breathable fabric with thick loft to trap warmth. Finally, put on a windproof, waterproof layer to keep out the elements.

Since 80 percent of body heat escapes through the head, a waterproof, windproof hat with thick insulation will help retain warmth. Remember, extremities are the body’s weakest link, so consider a thin pair of neoprene gloves to keep your hands warm even when they’re wet. To keep your feet warm and dry, start with thin silk-based socks under thicker insulating socks.

Enjoy a more comfortable and successful fishing experience with Stuart Sport Fishing. Call us today at 772-202-0623 and create lasting memories. Dive deeper into our Instagram here.

Reference: [https://www.takemefishing.org/saltwater-fishing/saltwater-fishing-gear/clothing/]

Blog

Category: Fishing Guides

7 simple tips to get your kids out fishing and having fun outdoors. Just a little bit of prepping for your kids to catch their first fish.

1. Plan your Trip with Kids in Mind

2. Always Bring Life Jackets

3. Target Easy Fish

4. Fishing Isn’t Boring

5. Teach them to Be Gentle

6. Selfless Patience Creates New Anglers

7. Follow the Rules

How to Clean a Fish: Steps

How to Clean a Fish: Tips and Warnings