Taking an 11 yr old to the bay on Saturday...help!!!

[Dukdogtx]

For a few months now, I've been promising my buddies son Tyler, that I'd take him fishing. He says that he wants to catch some "saltwater" fish-lol.
I usually fish from Oak Island to a few of the reefs in EGB (Whitehead, Deep reef, and down to Hannah's). Tyler is really athletic and can cast very well with spinning gear but not sure exactly what would be the best approach when fishing with an 11 Yr old.
I really don't want to drive all the way to OI or Smith Point, and considering putting in at the Galveston Yacht Basin which would be a new experience for me. I really want his first "saltwater" experience to be a good one. My plans were to fish Pelican Island, run across to either Sievers or Stingeree and out into the bay to do some drifting using shrimp under a popping cork.

Any suggestions by some of you guys that have younger fishing partners would be greatly appreciated.
HELP!!!

[speckcaster]

sounds like you've got a good plan...you can't beat dunking shrimp or fishing croakers with a young one...the surf might be hot this weekend too (i'm hoping)

tight lines & cross some eyes

[GacresOutdoors]

Just remember he is 11. Have patience and fun. Ask if you need to provide sunscreen and see what kind of drinks he likes. The more you cater to his likes, the more enjoyablemthenexperience will be. Catching fish will only be a huge bonus.

[Dukdogtx]

Originally Posted by GacresOutdoors

Just remember he is 11. Have patience and fun. Ask if you need to provide sunscreen and see what kind of drinks he likes. The more you cater to his likes, the more enjoyablemthenexperience will be. Catching fish will only be a huge bonus.

AWESOME response!!!
We really got a kick out of it. Very true though.

Tyler's dad will be going as well.

[Dukdogtx]

Next question:
Where would be the best Place to pick up some croaker/or shrimp? I'll be traveling from the Cypress area.

[GacresOutdoors]

Can't help you there as I'm addicted to potlickin POC.

[GacresOutdoors]

Another tip when fishing with kids, wear your life jacket also. That way they don't feel uncomfortable having to wear one when the adults don't. Act like you need to get something and ask him to watch the wheel. They get a huge kick out of driving the boat, and usually don't want to turn it back over to you.

[Drifting Dry]

I would put in at the TX City Dike. To me, it is a easier run if you are planning on hitting the ICW towards Sievers. With the forecast for a light Northeast wind, I would try any of the reefs on the North shoreline.

[FISHTEXX]

Slow drift the reefs you mentioned with shrimp/cork, slip out the anchor when you find the fish. As mentioned, find out what he likes to eat and drink, paint him up with sun screen and have fun. If you struggle with finding the fish, don't grind. Take a boat ride, looking for fish and let him drive.

[Kevin Spectackler]

Tell him to bring a hat and sunglasses. Bring extras in case he doesn't.