What to Bring on a Family-Friendly Fishing Charter in Northeast Florida

A family-friendly fishing charter should feel fun, simple, and memorable. You do not need to bring a truckload of gear or know everything about fishing before you step on the boat.

At Reel Spooled Charters, Captain Trever Dorics provides the fishing gear needed for the trip, including rods, reels, tackle, bait, and saltwater fishing licenses for guests. That means your family can focus on enjoying the experience instead of worrying about every little detail.

Still, there are a few personal items that can make your day more comfortable, especially during the warmer months in Northeast Florida.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is one of the most important items to bring on a fishing charter. The Florida sun can be strong, even on days that feel breezy or partly cloudy.

Lotion sunscreen is usually better than spray sunscreen on a boat. Spray sunscreen can get on the deck, seats, fishing gear, and sunglasses, and it may not apply as evenly in the wind. Apply sunscreen before the trip and bring extra so you can reapply as needed.

Hat or head covering

A hat can make a big difference on the water. It helps protect your face, keeps the sun out of your eyes, and makes the trip more comfortable.

For kids, a hat with a brim or neck coverage can be especially helpful. Just make sure it fits well enough that it will not blow off easily.

Sunglasses

Polarized sunglasses are helpful for fishing because they reduce glare and make it easier to see the water. Even if you are not planning to cast all day, sunglasses help protect your eyes and keep you more comfortable.

For kids, any comfortable pair of sunglasses is better than nothing. If you have polarized sunglasses, bring them.

Long-sleeve sun shirt

A lightweight long-sleeve sun shirt is one of the easiest ways to stay comfortable during a summer charter. It protects your skin without needing constant sunscreen on your arms and shoulders.

Quick-dry clothing is also helpful on the boat. Avoid heavy cotton if possible because it can stay wet and uncomfortable.

Drinks and snacks

Bring drinks and snacks your family will actually want. Water is always important, especially in the summer. Sports drinks, juice boxes, or other kid-friendly options can also be helpful.

Snacks are a good idea for younger kids or anyone who gets hungry quickly. Simple, easy-to-eat snacks work best. Avoid anything too messy or difficult to handle on the boat.

Personal items for kids

If you are bringing kids, think about what helps them stay comfortable. This may include a small towel, extra shirt, motion sickness medication if needed, or a favorite snack.

For younger kids, it can also help to talk about the trip ahead of time. Let them know they may catch fish, they may see wildlife, and they will need to listen to the captain while on the boat.

What Reel Spooled provides

Reel Spooled Charters provides the fishing equipment needed for your inshore trip. Saltwater fishing licenses are included for guests, along with rods, reels, tackle, bait, and basic gear needed for the day.

Captain Trever will help guide the trip, explain what to do, and adjust the plan based on the conditions. Whether your family has fished before or this is your first time, the goal is to keep the experience enjoyable and approachable.

What not to overpack

It is easy to overthink packing for a charter. Try not to bring too much. Space on a boat is limited, and a lighter bag is usually easier to manage.

You probably do not need to bring your own fishing rods unless you have already discussed it ahead of time. You also do not need a large cooler unless instructed. Keep it simple and bring what your family needs to stay comfortable.

A better family day on the water

The right preparation can make a fishing charter much more enjoyable. Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, drinks, snacks, and comfortable clothing can go a long way.

A family-friendly inshore charter is about more than catching fish. It is about time together, learning something new, seeing Northeast Florida from the water, and creating a memory your family can talk about long after the trip is over.

Planning a family fishing trip in St. Augustine? Book a private inshore charter with Reel Spooled Charters. Book a Charter