4 Tips for Planning Family Fishing Trips in August

Are you planning a few family fishing trips in August before the kids go back to school? Now is the time to get outdoors and make the most of the last few weeks of summer.

August fishing trips can be simple as dunking a few crickets for bluegill in North Florida or as challenging as targeting billfish off the coast of Maryland. Consider the ages and skill levels of everyone in the family before you go. Check out these tips that cover planning August fishing trips for families.

1. Visit a Fish Hatchery in Georgia

Turn family-friendly fishing trips in August into educational experiences that also teach kids about how fish are raised and stocked. For example, places like Lake Burton Fish Hatchery near Clarkesville, GA have kid-friendly ponds that offer easy and fun fishing opportunities for beginners. Ultralight tackle and live baits will guarantee bites from freshwater fish such as trout and catfish. Be sure to call the hatchery before you go to find out if they offer guided or self-guided tours.

2. Plan a Family Panfish Trip to North Florida

August fishing trips for families should include a day of catching bluegill using a simple cane pole and bobber in North Florida. The bluegill spawn lasts through July and into August, which means the fish are active and very willing to feed on natural baits like crickets or worms. Holmes Creek is a major spring-fed tributary of the Choctawhatchee River in Northwest Florida, and it offers some excellent fishing for bluegill and other panfish. Families can rent canoes or kayaks from places like Snaggy Bend Outfitters or Holmes Creek Canoe Livery.

3. Experience Offshore or Inshore Fishing in Maryland

When it comes to August fishing destinations for families, Ocean City, MD offers plenty of summer saltwater species diversity. Families can fish from the surf or from inshore charter boats on the Assawoman and Sinepuxent Bays for striped bass, flounder, and bluefish. For experienced anglers, there are white marlin, mahi, blue marlin, and bigeye tuna offshore charter trips. After a day of fishing, you can head to the beach-and-boardwalk or pay a visit to nearby Assateague Island to see the wild ponies.

4. Bass Fishing and Lure History in Branson

Table Rock Lake, near Branson, MO, ranks among the best tournament lakes in the country for largemouth and spotted bass. You can book a trip with a professional fishing guide to maximize your time on the water or rent a boat and do some exploring on your own. If you want to catch rainbow trout, nearby Lake Taneycomo is a great spot for a day of family fishing with ultralight rods and reels. Branson is also home to the History of Fishing Museum (containing the extensive lure collection of Karl and Beverly White) as well as the Wonders of Wildlife Museum and Aquarium.

Use these tips for family fishing trips in August to get out on the water and make some new memories.