Old enough for Bluewater fishing?

[Bullish]

I have a son that will be 9 years old next year and was wondering at what age other bluewater fisherman started taking their kids to the edge. My thinking is 12 years-old might be old enough to get him more familiar with Mr. Yellowfin but wanted to know other's experiences.

[lowprofile]

I take my son that is 7 out of Oregon Inlet on select days. My daughter that is now 16 has been fishing with me for 5 years. This year she won top junior angler for Mahi at the Barta Billfish tourney. But you must realize that when they go they are your top responsiblity I have survival suits for them that are on the boat year round, When weather is even a question we come in or don't go. If they want to come in we do. It is a lot of fun seeing them enjoy fishing but it puts a lot of pressure on us as parents because offshore fishing does have risks and we must do everything possible to reduce these risks.

Hope this helps.

[Bullish]

How far offshore do you go with the kids out of Oregon Inlet?

[lowprofile]

Out of OI it is usally about a 35nm run from the sea bouy.

[Nutz]

My oldest son has been going with me since he turned 7. We go out of VB and run about 60 miles. He is a true fanatic and has reeled in some yelowfin (with help) and has caught his fair share of bailers unassisted. I just moved up to the 28 CC from a 27 walk around and feel alot more comfortable with him onboard in regards to his safety. He as made every trip with me since his first. I tried to leave him behind when he had a baseball semi final playoff game but after having him beg and plead and cry for more than an hour my wife gave him the ok to skip the game. I promised him next year I will give him a shot at a white.

[Bullish]

Your son is a die hard! Nice to hear the enthusiasm at a young age. Most kids (nowadays) prefer to PS2 to the boat.