Enjoy Family Fishing Cape May

By Harriet Porter


Catching fish is an outdoor activity that people of all ages enjoy. For a day trip or a vacation, family fishing Cape May will make memories to last a lifetime. The sport is best for children in summer, when the croakers come into the area, but it's a year-round activity here.

Croakers are small fish, usually not more than twelve inches long. They put up a great fight when hooked, but they aren't too strong for a child to bring in. They also are plentiful during the summer, so a day out in a party boat can be full of action.

Party boats are designed for people who are either learning or just want to see what a fishing trip is like. They have cabins for shelter from sun or rain, high side rails for security, bathrooms on board, and staff that love to show kids a good time. The crew will help both adults and children 'rig the tackle' (bait the hooks), bring in a fish, and even clean one that's big enough to take home. The boats are inspected and licensed by the US coast Guard, so they are safe, clean, and equipped with all safety gear.

Kids also will like the natural wonders of the area. An area called 'The Rips' where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean has strong tidal currents which create a rippled bottom with deep holes and sandbars. Off-shore winds, when they're against the tide, cause high waves to stand up behind the barriers on the bottom. This area is only for experienced fisher-folk, but it's great for sightseers and birdwatchers.

Part of the fun for children is seeing the water, feeling the wind, and watching for wildlife. At the Rips, all sorts of birds prey on the bait-fish, as smaller species are called. Gulls, terns, pelicans, storm-petrels, kittiwakes, gannets, and jaegers are some that can be seen. Bottle-nosed dolphins and even Hump-backed whales may join the party. Many of these birds and animals can be seen from the off-shore boats, as well.

It's recommended that children be seven and older to go on the off-shore boat trips. There are four-hour excursions that are about all the excitement smaller kids can stand. Teens may be interested enough for the six to eight-hour day trips, which is a long time to spend on the water. However, the time goes quickly when it's all new and exciting. Those really into the sport of game-fishing will like night trips after the large, strong bluefish.

Boats are great, but the family can also fish other places. There are quiet back bays where even toddlers can explore the sport in safety. Surf-casting and trolling is fun, as is fishing from the bridges and jetties around town. Crabbing is a favorite of small children, who love lying on the dock and watching their chicken neck attract blue crabs.

There are other things to do, if the family wants to spend more than a day. There are great beaches, fabulous ferry rides, and a famous light house to visit. Great hotels, charming B&Bs, fine restaurants, museums, and great shopping make this area a wonderful vacation destination.




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