Best Family Fishing Vacations

Planning on taking a family vacation in the near future, but not quite sure where to go yet? With so many options around the United States, it can be hard to make a decision as to where to go. If you and your family enjoy fishing, there are several destinations where you can fish together as well as enjoy other fun activities like whitewater rafting, hiking, sightseeing, sports, and more. There is nothing like spending some quality bonding time on the water and in the outdoors! Here is a list of the best family fishing vacations around the United States to plan to go to on your next vacation. Wherever you decide to go, make sure you have the proper fishing equipment.

Durango, Colorado

Located in southwestern Colarado, Durango is a small, yet bustling town that has something for everyone all year long. As a fisherman, you have the options of the San Juan River, the Animas River, and Vallecito Lake all located near Durango. There are countless tributaries and small streams that are also great fishing. The rivers contain many species of trout like brown, rainbow, and brook, while Vallecito Lake provides these as well as northern pike. All of these waters are easy to access for the family, and if the kids are a little older, you can hike into the backcountry to fish these as well. The Animas River Trail follows the river for a good distance, and you can fish and see some country off this.

Boats and kayaks are easy to rent for many of these through local guide services, otherwise you also have the option of wading the rivers. As a family, boats would be a great way to go, and Vallecito Lake Marina rents these out. If you want to rent a canoe, kayak, or raft to float the rivers as a family, visit the riversports website. One thing to note about Colorado is the kids won’t need fishing licenses unless they are sixteen or over.

The quantity of fish that can be caught in this area is outstanding to keep the kids fishing all day. However, if you do want to do other things (and I wouldn’t miss out on these in this area either), there are countless other fun activities to do in the area.

Hiking and Mountain Biking

Durango is surrounded by mountains that make for great hiking and mountain biking and great views from the top. The Animas River Trail is right in town and follows the Animas River, and is also an easy walk or ride for the family. If you’re up for a slightly harder ride and an even better view, climb the Animas Mountain Trail to get a spectacular view of the city. There are dozens of other family friendly trails around the town. As a family, you can rent mountain bikes from many outfitters locally.

Whitewater Rafting

For a family, there are a couple mild rivers to float in a raft, the Animas River and the Piedra River. If you choose to do the Animas trip, you actually will be able to float right through the town! The Piedra River is a little more remote. Both these rivers will give you a little excitement, but nothing the kids can’t handle!

Four Wheeling

The whole family can climb into a 4×4 vehicle and see some rugged country with local guides, who will bring you on some high mountain trails. You can pack a lunch, or bring your fishing rods and fish some streams as well!

Arts

With several museums around the town, you and the family can see a bit of Old Western mining town culture, from the mines to the railroads and more! Durango has many options to visit some American history, from the Animas Museum to the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Museum. Check to see what the Durango Art Center is exhibiting as well.

Railroads and More

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the local train that takes families on a beautiful route through the mountains. While railroads used to be the way to transport ore back in the day, nowadays they are used to give you unforgettable views. There are also ziplines around the town that are family friendly and the kids will love. Glide through the air down a mountain slope on one of these with the family to top your vacation off! If your family enjoys golf, there are some premier golf courses around town. Finally, at the end of the day, hit up the natural hot springs for a rejuvenating soak!

Durango, Colorado is one of America’s best family vacation destinations, and by choosing to go here, you can combine some fishing with a lot of family fun! Learn more about Durango.

Key West, Florida

Another one of the best family fishing vacations can be found in Key West, Florida, where you have the options of deep sea fishing or offshore fishing for trophy saltwater species. The family is sure to enjoy catching the many fish that swim here, as well as basking in the warm Florida sun. Located at the southern tip of Florida, Key West is actually the furthest island away from Florida in the series of Keys.

Family fishing here means getting a fishing charter to target the plentiful fish, and you can go after species like snapper and grouper to keep the kids captivated or go for the big trophy marlin in the deep water. This would depend on what your family wants to do! Besides fishing, there are many other things to do around Key West.

Diving and Snorkeling

The whole family can enjoy drifting calmly through the water over the top of a colorful reef or visiting a sunken ship. Diving and snorkeling are two of the most popular activities around the Keys, and it’s easy to see why – the views are amazing. Spend an entire afternoon with the family gazing at myriads of fish and coral reefs, something everyone will love.

 Aquarium

Spend a few hours at the aquarium, where the kids can view and pet many different species of marine animals like sharks. You can also watch live feedings to see how these sea creatures eat. Guided tours are available.

Golf

What trip to Florida would be complete without going golfing? Key West offers an outstanding golf course for you and your family on a championship-level golf course. If the kids are old enough, this is a top-notch golf course well worth your time.

Historic Seaport

Stroll down the same seaport that shrimp boats of old used to use, and enjoy fine dining and many seafront shops at the historic seaport. Here, you can also arrange your day on the water by consulting with guides, or eat some fine food by the water’s edge. The shops along the boardwalk are plentiful, and you can find a trinket for everyone in the family in these. Plus, stay for sunset and watch as the sun sets over the ocean for a beautiful view you won’t forget anytime soon.

Key West is a vacation destination the whole family will enjoy, and you can split your time up with fishing, sightseeing, golfing, and more!

Kona, Hawaii

If you can’t quite reach a compromise with your significant other as to where to go that balances fishing with a family vacation, go to Kona, Hawaii. The west coast of the big island offers top notch fishing on chartered boats for many big saltwater species like billfish, tuna, mahi-mahi, and shark. You can also catch some smaller fish off the shore as well. You should still be able to get in some fishing here with your family for a day or two, then enjoy the many other things that Kona has to offer.

Sight See

The Big Island is filled with many sightseeing adventures. Start off by exploring the multitude of beaches that Kona has to offer, from black sand to white sand to green sand. Kailua Kona is the main town in Kona and offers many activities, so take your time and explore the city. Try some famous Kona coffee, visit the farmers market, and learn how to hula dance! The family will love spending any spare time wandering around this beautiful coast.

Tours

You can go on horseback rides to get a more intimate view of the country, which is a great option if any of the kids are horse lovers, or you can also get an aerial view from a helicopter. These tours can take you back into territory that is breathtaking, so be sure to bring a camera. Another idea is to go on a boat tour to watch whales or dolphins!

Diving and Snorkeling

Just like Key West, diving and snorkeling are one of the main things to do here. There are many colorful species of fish as well as serene sea turtlers waiting to be discovered in the crystalline water here in Kona. Spectacular underwater reefs and structure will make you feel like you are in a whole new world.

Surfing and Boarding

Depending on the kids age, surfing is something else that Kona offers. Rent a surfboard and join the locals out in the surf! You can also do stand up paddle boarding in one of the places where it has its roots.

Kona, Hawaii is a great family vacation spot, but you can also make it a fishing destination at the same time. Spend a week there with the family for a vacation they won’t forget!

Conclusion

Though it may not always seem easy to get out on a vacation with the family and fish at the same time, these three destinations make it very possible. Everyone can enjoy themselves catching fish, hanging out, and spending quality time together. Good luck on your next family fishing vacation!