Family Friendly Fishing Trips in Seattle | Puget Sound & Kid-Friendly Guide

Looking for the best Seattle family fishing trips? Whether you're planning your first outing with kids or searching for kid-friendly fishing spots near Seattle, this guide covers everything parents need to know about fishing with kids in Seattle and on Puget Sound.

One of the most rewarding parts of my job is watching a kid reel in their first fish. The wide eyes, the excitement, the pure joy - it never gets old, even after 15+ years of guiding. If you're thinking about taking your family fishing near Seattle, here's what you need to know.

Best Family Fishing Trips in Seattle

Not every fishing trip is ideal for young anglers. Here are the best Puget Sound fishing trips for families, organized by age and experience level.

Puget Sound Salmon Trips (Ages 5+)

This is my top pick for families. The boat is stable, the scenery is stunning, and salmon provide enough action to keep kids engaged. Half-day trips work great for younger children who might get restless on longer outings. Puget Sound salmon fishing is one of the best kid-friendly fishing spots near Seattle because the water is calm and the fish are active.

River Fishing Adventures (Ages 8+)

River trips on drift boats are exciting but require a bit more patience and balance. Older kids who can sit still and follow instructions will love the adventure of floating down a scenic Washington river chasing steelhead or salmon.

Ocean / Westport Trips for Older Kids (Ages 10+)

Ocean fishing is thrilling but the longer boat rides and bigger swells make it better suited for older kids and teens. The payoff is worth it - hauling up a big halibut or lingcod is unforgettable. This is a great option for families who have already done some fishing with kids in Seattle and want a bigger adventure.

Why a Guided Charter is Perfect for Families

Taking kids fishing on your own can be stressful. Tangled lines, lost hooks, bored kids - it adds up fast. A guided charter takes the pressure off so everyone can focus on having fun.

What I handle for you:

• All equipment and tackle (kid-friendly to operate)
• Bait rigging and line management
• Finding the fish so there's plenty of action
• Teaching proper technique at every skill level
• Answering all the questions kids have!
• Safety on the water

What Ages Are Appropriate?

I've had kids as young as 4 on the boat, though I generally recommend:

• Ages 4-6: Short Puget Sound trips with patient parents nearby
• Ages 7-10: Half-day salmon trips, calm river floats
• Ages 11+: Any trip type, including full-day and ocean charters

Every child is different. If your kid loves the outdoors and can handle a few hours of activity, they'll probably do great.

What to Bring for a Family Fishing Trip

Before the Trip

• Talk to your kids about what to expect - the early wake-up, being on a boat, waiting between bites
• Start with a half-day trip if it's their first time. We also offer afternoon trips in peak summertime from 1pm - 5pm.
• Pack extra snacks (hungry kids are unhappy kids)
• Bring motion sickness prevention just in case. Not always needed and sometimes crackers or peppermint can help in the moment.
• Sunscreen and hats for everyone
• Layered clothing - mornings on the water are cool

On the Water

• Let kids reel in fish even if it takes longer
• Celebrate every catch, no matter the size
• Take breaks if someone needs a rest
• Bring a camera - these moments are priceless

Managing Expectations

• Some days the fish bite nonstop, other days are slower
• The experience matters more than the catch count
• Even "slow" days usually produce a few fish
• Kids often remember the boat ride and wildlife as much as the fishing. We often see harbor seals, Porpoises, Eagles, and occasionally Orcas!

Safety on Family Fishing Charters

Your family's safety is my top priority:

• Coast Guard approved life jackets for all sizes
• Calm water routes when kids are aboard
• Experienced handling of hooks and tackle around young hands
• First aid kit always on board
• I adjust the trip based on conditions and comfort levels

Making Memories That Last

Some of my favorite moments as a guide have been watching families connect over fishing. There's something about being out on the water together, away from screens and schedules, that brings people closer.

Many of my family clients come back year after year. The kids grow up, their skills improve, and the fishing stories get better every time.

Ready to create your family's next adventure? I'd love to help plan the perfect trip for your crew. Reach out and let's chat about what works best for your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do kids need a fishing license? In Visit Washington State, children under 16 do not need a fishing license to fish in fresh or saltwater.

What is the best age to take kids fishing in Seattle? Kids as young as 4-5 can enjoy a short Puget Sound salmon trip. For river fishing, I recommend ages 8 and up. Ocean fishing from Westport is best for kids 10 and older. Every child is different, so consider your kid's patience level and comfort on the water.

Do you provide fishing gear for kids? Yes, all equipment is provided including kid-sized rods and reels. I carry tackle appropriate for every age and skill level so you don't need to bring anything except snacks and weather-appropriate clothing.

How long should a family fishing trip be? For first-timers and younger kids (under 8), I recommend a half-day trip of about 4-6 hours. Older kids and experienced young anglers can handle full-day river trips. Starting shorter helps ensure everyone has a great experience.

What if my child gets motion sickness? Motion sickness is not as common for kids on Puget Sound or the rivers. Some preventatives like Dramamine can make them sleepy or groggy. Use your best discretion for your child. If they start to not feel well, they can take a break sitting or laying in the cabin. Crackers or peppermints sometimes help.

What fish will we catch on a family trip? On Puget Sound, families primarily target salmon (Chinook, Coho, and Pink salmon depending on season). To keep it action packed, we sometimes catch flounder and sharks. River trips target steelhead and salmon. Westport ocean trips go after halibut, lingcod, and rockfish. I focus on species that provide plenty of action to keep kids engaged.