Expert-Guided Family Day Charter on Pine Island

Family Fun Day: Fishing, Beach & Dolphins

Get ready for a full day of adventure on the water with Matlacha Saltwater Outfitters! This 8-hour trip packs in everything from fishing to dolphin watching, with plenty of family-friendly fun in between. We'll kick things off with some rod-bending action, then chill on a secluded beach before hitting up the historic Cabbage Key. By the time we wrap up with dolphin spotting, you'll have a boatload of memories to take home.

What's in Store

Our day starts bright and early at the Matlacha dock. We'll load up the boat with snacks, drinks, and all the gear you need for a full day on Pine Island Sound. First up is two hours of fishing - perfect for both seasoned anglers and first-timers. We'll hit some of my favorite spots where the fish are always biting. After that, we'll cruise over to a quiet beach that's off the beaten path. It's a great spot to stretch your legs, hunt for shells, or just soak up some Florida sun. For lunch, we'll dock at one of the local waterfront spots where you can grab a bite (my pick: try the fresh grouper sandwich). Then it's off to Cabbage Key, a little slice of Old Florida paradise. We'll wrap up the day searching for playful dolphins - trust me, watching these guys show off never gets old, no matter how many times you've seen it.

Hooks, Lines, and Good Times

During our fishing time, we'll be using light tackle setups that are perfect for inshore species. I'll show you how to cast, set the hook, and reel in your catch like a pro. We might do some drift fishing over grass flats or anchor up near mangrove islands - it all depends on where the fish are biting that day. Don't worry if you're new to this - I've got plenty of patience and love teaching kids (and grown-ups) how to fish. And for you experienced anglers, I promise we'll put you on some good action. We practice catch and release for most species, but if we hook into something keeper-sized for dinner, we can certainly clean it up for you at the end of the day.

Species You Might Reel In

While we're not targeting any specific fish on this trip, there's a good chance you'll tangle with some of Pine Island's most popular inshore species. Redfish are always a favorite - these copper-colored brutes put up a great fight and love to hang out around oyster bars and mangroves. In the warmer months, you might hook into some feisty snook. These "line-siders" are known for their acrobatic jumps and hard runs. Spotted seatrout are another common catch, and they're great for beginners since they're usually eager biters. If we're lucky, we might even hook into a tarpon - the "silver king" is the ultimate prize for many anglers visiting Florida. Remember, half the fun is in the surprise of what's on the end of your line!

Island Hopping and Dolphin Spotting

After our fishing adventure, we'll trade rods for relaxation as we hit the beach. This isn't your typical crowded tourist spot - we're talking about a quiet stretch of sand where you can really unwind. Once we've had our fill of beach time, we'll make our way to Cabbage Key. This 100-acre island is like stepping back in time - there are no paved roads, and the main attraction is a historic inn rumored to have inspired Jimmy Buffett's "Cheeseburger in Paradise." Take a short walk around the nature trail, or grab a drink at the bar covered in dollar bills (it's a tradition - trust me). As we head back, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins. These curious creatures often swim right up to the boat, and I know all the best spots where they like to play and feed. It's the perfect way to cap off our day on the water.

Why Families Keep Coming Back

This full-day trip is a hit with families because it's got something for everyone. Kids love the excitement of reeling in fish and spotting dolphins, while parents appreciate the mix of adventure and relaxation. I've had grandparents tell me it's the best day they've spent with their grandkids in years. Plus, with a max of 6 guests, you get plenty of personal attention and can really customize the day to fit your family's interests. Whether you're local to Matlacha or visiting from out of state, this trip shows you the best of what Pine Island has to offer, all in one action-packed day.

Book Your Family Adventure

Ready to make some waves (and memories) with your crew? This full-day family trip books up fast, especially during peak season. Give Matlacha Saltwater Outfitters a call to check availability and lock in your date. Don't forget to pack sunscreen, hats, and maybe a light jacket - Florida weather can be unpredictable, but I promise the fun is guaranteed. See you on the water!