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St. Andrews Bay Kids Fishing | Bluewater Charter
- Published Date: November 18, 2025
- Fishing
- Panama City, Florida
- $400 - $850 price range
- Updated Date: November 19, 2025
Summary
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Bay Fishing Fun
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St. Andrews Bay: Kid-Friendly Fishing Adventure
Hey there, fishing fans! If you're looking to introduce the kiddos to saltwater angling or just want a laid-back day on the water, boy, do I have the trip for you. Bluewater Charter's "Kids Or Beginners Trip" in St. Andrews Bay is the perfect way to get your feet wet (literally and figuratively) without diving headfirst into the big, blue ocean. Let's break down what makes this trip a real catch for families and first-timers alike.
What to Expect on the Water
Picture this: You're cruising the calm waters of St. Andrews Bay, the sun warming your face as you cast your line into the emerald waters. This isn't your average fishing trip – it's tailor-made for the young'uns and newbies who might not be ready for the rolling waves of the open Gulf. We'll stick to the sheltered waters of the bay, where the fish are plentiful and the seasickness is minimal. And hey, if everyone's feeling brave and the weather's playing nice, we might just sneak out past the pass for a taste of the big water. It's all about comfort and fun here, folks.
Fishing 101: Baits and Basics
Now, don't you worry if you can't tell a jig from a crankbait – that's what I'm here for! We'll start with the basics, showing the little ones (and the young at heart) how to bait a hook, cast a line, and reel in their catch. We use light tackle that's easy for small hands to handle, and I'll be right there to guide everyone through each step. You'll learn about different baits we use in the bay, from live shrimp that make redfish go nuts to artificial lures that trick even the wiliest of fish. By the end of the day, you'll be talking fishing lingo like a pro!
Species You'll Want to Hook
Let's talk about the stars of our show – the fish! St. Andrews Bay is home to a variety of species that are perfect for beginners to target. First up, we've got the sheepshead. These striped beauties are like the raccoons of the sea – clever and always looking for a snack. They love to hang around structure, so we'll try our luck near pilings and jetties. Sheepshead put up a good fight and are delicious to boot – a win-win in my book!
Next on our hit list are redfish, or as the old-timers call 'em, red drum. These copper-colored bruisers are a favorite among anglers of all ages. They've got a distinctive black spot on their tail, which according to local legend, is there to confuse predators. Redfish are known for their powerful runs, so hold on tight when you hook one – it's gonna be a fun ride!
Don't overlook the humble sand perch, folks. These little guys might not win any size contests, but they're abundant and eager to bite, making them perfect for keeping the kids engaged. Plus, they're tasty in fish tacos!
If we're lucky enough to venture out a bit further, we might tangle with some red snapper. These deep-water dwellers are prized for their flaky white meat and put up one heck of a fight. Just remember, we follow all the regulations to keep our fisheries healthy for years to come.
Last but not least, there's the Spanish mackerel. These speedsters are like the greyhounds of the sea – sleek, fast, and always on the move. When they're running, the action can be non-stop, and they're a blast to catch on light tackle. Keep an eye out for birds diving – that's often a sign that the mackerel are feeding on the surface.
Why Families Keep Coming Back
Let me tell you, there's nothing quite like seeing a kid's face light up when they reel in their very first fish. It's not just about the catch, though – it's about making memories that'll last a lifetime. Out here on the water, away from screens and schedules, families get to connect in a way that's hard to find anywhere else. You might come for the fish, but you'll leave with so much more – new skills, a deeper appreciation for nature, and maybe even a new family tradition.
Time to Book Your Spot
Alright, folks, if you're itching to get out on the water and introduce the next generation to the joys of fishing, this is your chance. The "Kids Or Beginners Trip" with Bluewater Charter is more than just a fishing trip – it's an investment in fun, learning, and family bonding. We've got everything you need, from rods and reels to bait and expert guidance. All you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe some sunscreen).
Remember, the bay is calling, and those fish aren't gonna catch themselves! Spaces fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to book your spot. Whether you're looking to create some lasting memories with the kids or just want to dip your toes into the world of saltwater fishing, this trip is your ticket to a good time. So what are you waiting for? Let's get you and your crew out on the water and start making some fishing stories of your own. Trust me, once you feel that first tug on the line, you'll be hooked for life!
Learn more about the species
Red Snapper
Red snapper are a prized catch in the deeper waters off St. Andrews Bay. These bright red beauties can grow up to 35 pounds, but most you'll catch are in the 5 to 15 pound range. They're typically found in 60 to 300 feet of water, hanging around reefs, wrecks, and other structures. Summer is prime time for red snapper fishing when the season opens. Anglers love them for their hard-fighting nature and excellent table fare – their white, flaky meat is top-notch. To target big ones, use heavy tackle and drop large live baits like pinfish or cigar minnows to the bottom. Here's a local secret: chum the water with cut bait to get them fired up, then drop your line. Just be ready for a strong pull when they hit!
Redfish
Redfish, or red drum, are a favorite target in St. Andrews Bay. These bronze-colored beauties with a distinctive black spot near their tail typically range from 20 to 40 inches. You'll find them in shallow flats, around oyster bars, and near grass beds, often in water barely deep enough to cover their backs. Fall is the prime season when big schools move into the bay. Redfish put up a great fight, especially on light tackle, and they're excellent eating too. Locals love sight-fishing for them in clear shallows – it's like hunting with a rod and reel. Try using a gold spoon or live shrimp under a popping cork. When you spot tailing reds, cast beyond them and slowly retrieve – they can't resist an easy meal.
Sand Perch
Sand perch are small but feisty fish you'll find in St. Andrews Bay, usually hanging out near sandy or rubble bottoms. They're typically 5 to 9 inches long, with a brown top and white belly, sporting blue stripes and a dark spot on the tail. These little guys are territorial and don't school up like other fish. You'll often catch them in shallow waters up to about 30 feet deep, especially around seagrass beds or near rocky areas. They're fun to catch on light tackle and make for great eating. Kids love targeting them because they're easy to catch and put up a spirited fight for their size. Use small hooks baited with bits of shrimp or squid, and fish close to the bottom. Pro tip: look for them near bridge pilings or over sandy patches between grass beds.
Sheepshead
Sheepshead are a unique catch in St. Andrews Bay, known for their distinctive black and white stripes and human-like teeth. These crafty fish typically weigh 1-8 pounds and hang around structures like docks, bridges, and oyster beds. They're masters at stealing bait, so you've got to be quick on the hook-set. Spring is prime time for sheepshead fishing, as they gather to spawn near passes and offshore reefs. Anglers love targeting them for their strong fight and excellent table fare. Their sweet, white meat is a local delicacy. To up your chances, try using fiddler crabs or barnacles as bait – sheepshead can't resist 'em. Remember to bring a good pair of pliers; those teeth can make unhooking a challenge!
Spanish Mackerel
Spanish mackerel are fast-moving predators that cruise St. Andrews Bay and nearby coastal waters. These sleek, silvery fish with yellow spots usually weigh 2 to 4 pounds and put up a great fight on light tackle. Look for them in open water, often near the surface, chasing bait schools. They're most active in spring and fall during their migrations. Anglers love targeting Spanish mackerel for their high-speed runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. They're also delicious when grilled fresh. To catch 'em, try trolling small spoons or jigs behind the boat at a good clip. Local tip: watch for diving birds – they'll often lead you right to a feeding frenzy. Cast a flashy lure into the action and hang on tight!
