Fishing with Kids: How to Plan a Fun & Safe Day on Lake Somerville
Fishing with Kids: How to Plan a Fun & Safe Day on Lake Somerville
Fishing is one of the best ways to introduce children to the outdoors. It teaches patience, appreciation for nature, and provides an opportunity for real connection — away from screens and daily distractions. And when you’re fishing with kids in Texas, Lake Somerville is one of the safest, easiest, and most rewarding destinations.
At Hooked on Fishing, LLC in Brenham, we’ve guided countless families — including our own children and grandchildren — on memorable trips that turn first-time anglers into lifelong fishing fans. Whether you’re bringing a 5-year-old or a teenager, here’s how to plan a safe, smooth, and exciting fishing day with kids on Lake Somerville.
Why Lake Somerville Is Ideal for Kids
When it comes to fishing with young anglers, not all lakes are created equal. Here’s why Lake Somerville checks all the boxes for a kid-friendly experience:
Calm Waters and Protected Coves
Lake Somerville has several shallow, protected areas ideal for introducing kids to fishing. These calm waters reduce the chance of motion sickness and make casting and reeling much easier.
Active Fish Species for Short Attention Spans
Kids love action. And Somerville is full of fish species that provide fast bites and simple setups:
- White bass – Easy to catch in schools
- Catfish – Bite consistently, even with basic rigs
- Crappie – Provide light-tackle fun with minimal waiting
The goal is to keep kids engaged, and Somerville delivers.
Easy Access and Comfortable Amenities
The lake is close to home for many families in Central Texas and offers easy parking, restrooms, and day-use areas near major boat ramps. If you're traveling from Houston, Austin, or College Station, it’s a very manageable day trip.
Safety First: What Every Parent Should Know
At Hooked on Fishing, we make safety our top priority, especially when kids are on board.
Here’s how we ensure a secure trip for every young angler:
Licensed and Insured Guide Service
Our trips are operated by a licensed captain, and all safety requirements are in place, including:
- U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for all sizes
- Emergency communication equipment
- First-aid supplies
- Clean, stable fishing boat with railings and shaded areas
Proper Supervision and Instruction
Captain Steve Lyons has guided children as young as 4 years old. We focus on:
- Showing kids how to safely handle gear
- Providing help with casting, baiting, and reeling
- Using barbless hooks or child-safe tackle when needed
- Adjusting pace and activity based on each child’s comfort and interest
Parents are always welcome to be as involved or relaxed as they like. We support both hands-on and hands-off approaches.
Tips for a Kid-Friendly Fishing Trip
To make the day more fun for everyone, here are some tried-and-true tips:
1. Choose a Half-Day Trip
For younger children (under 10), a 4-hour morning trip is ideal. Kids are more focused earlier in the day, and the action is usually better. Longer trips can lead to fatigue or boredom.
2. Bring Their Favorite Snacks and Drinks
We provide coolers onboard, but having their own snacks helps keep kids energized and content between bites.
3. Don’t Focus Only on the Fish
For kids, catching fish is great — but it’s the whole experience that matters. Point out birds, watch for turtles, let them steer the boat for a minute, or teach them to identify different fish species.
4. Celebrate Every Catch
Whether it’s a trophy white bass or a tiny sunfish, celebrate every fish like it’s a big one. Take photos, let them hold the catch (if they want to), and make them feel proud of their effort.
5. Be Flexible
Some kids may want to fish for 3 hours straight. Others might lose interest in 30 minutes. We build trips around your child’s personality, not a rigid schedule.
What to Pack for Fishing with Kids
Here’s a checklist of items we recommend you bring:
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Hats and sunglasses
- Snacks and water
- Light jackets (for cooler mornings)
- Camera or phone for photos
- Wet wipes or hand sanitizer
- Positive attitude (especially if the fish aren’t biting right away)
Don’t worry about rods, reels, bait, or tackle — we supply all that.
Real Family Fishing Stories
"Our daughter caught her very first fish!"
“We took our 7-year-old daughter on her first trip and she ended up catching six white bass! Captain Steve was so patient and helped her every step of the way. She still talks about it weeks later.”
— Rachel D., Bryan, TX
"Safe, professional, and fun"
“As a parent, I was nervous at first. But everything from life jackets to instructions was handled perfectly. My boys had a blast — and so did I.”
— Jorge M., Brenham, TX
"This was the highlight of our weekend getaway"
“We booked a morning trip while camping at the lake, and it was easily the best part of the whole weekend. The kids caught fish, and I got to sit back and enjoy it all.”
— Allison P., Cypress, TX
These are the moments we aim to create for every family we serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the minimum age for kids to go fishing?
We’ve had children as young as 4 years old on our boats. There’s no minimum age, but we suggest at least 4 for best results. Safety and comfort always come first.
Do we need a fishing license for kids?
No. In Texas, children under 17 years old do not need a fishing license. Adults accompanying them will need a valid license, which can be purchased online.
Are your boats kid-friendly?
Yes. We use safe, clean, stable fishing boats with plenty of space, railing for support, and covered areas to get out of the sun.
Will my child catch a fish?
We can't guarantee every child will catch one, but our success rate is very high — especially during spring and summer. We’ll do everything possible to make it happen.
Can we take photos of the trip?
Absolutely. We encourage it. We’re happy to snap pictures for you during the trip so everyone can be in the photo.
Book Your Family Fishing Trip on Lake Somerville
There’s nothing quite like the look on a child’s face when they reel in their first fish. Whether it’s a one-time family outing or the start of a lifelong hobby, fishing with kids is more than just catching fish — it’s about building memories.
At Hooked on Fishing, LLC, we’re proud to offer safe, guided trips designed specifically for families. We take care of the gear, the fish, and the fun — so you can focus on your kids and enjoy your time together.
Call (979) 451-0044 or book online today. We serve Brenham, Lake Somerville, and all nearby communities with family-first fishing charters.
