The Coastal Bend is a great place to take kids fishing. The water is shallow and warm, the fish are willing, and there are options for every budget. Kids under 17 don't need a Texas fishing license, which helps.
Three ways to go
1. Party boat (cheapest)
Walk-on bay trips from Port Aransas start around $53 per person for 3.5 hours, with rods, bait and a crew to untangle lines. Kids catch lots of small fish, and it's a great first trip. Offshore party boats cost more and can be rough, so save those for older kids.
2. Short private trip (best for learning)
Several guides offer 4 to 5-hour family trips with reduced rates for kids. Expect $500 to $650 for the boat. A private trip lets the captain slow down and teach.
3. Do it yourself from shore
Piers and parks with easy access: Goose Island State Park near Rockport, Indian Point Park in Portland, Roberts Point Park in Port Aransas and Bayfront Park in Seadrift. Bring a cork rig, live shrimp and a bucket.
What it costs for a family of four
| Option | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Bay party boat, 2 adults + 2 kids | About $210 to $240, plus 2 one-day licenses ($22 for Texas residents) |
| 4-hour private trip | About $500 to $700, plus tip and licenses |
| Pier or shoreline, own gear | About $20 to $40 for bait, plus licenses and any park fee |
Price your exact group with the trip cost calculator.
Tips that keep kids happy
- Go early and keep it short. Three or four hours is plenty for young kids.
- Pick a calm day. Check the wind on the conditions page; under 12 knots is ideal.
- Fish for action, not trophies. Croaker, piggy perch and hardhead catfish keep kids busy.
- Pack snacks, drinks, hats and long-sleeve sun shirts.
- Texas requires kids under 13 to wear a life jacket while a boat under 26 feet is underway. Bring one that fits.
- Teach them to handle hardhead catfish carefully or let an adult do it. Their spines sting.