Lake Okeechobee is one of the best places in the country to take a family fishing — and not just because it’s loaded with fish. It’s shallow, sheltered water close to the launch, the fish bite readily, and there’s always something tugging on the line to keep everyone entertained. Bo runs family charters all the time, and they’re some of his favorite days on the water.
Built for kids — and everyone else
The secret to a great family trip is simple: keep the rods bending. Bo does that by leaning on the two easiest, most productive bites on the lake.
- Live wild shiners do the heavy lifting. They don’t require any casting skill, and they draw the biggest bites in the boat. A shiner under a float along a grass edge is about the most kid-friendly way there is to catch a real Okeechobee largemouth.
- Bluegill and bream beds are non-stop fun. When the panfish are bedding, a cricket or worm gets bit as fast as you can drop it in — perfect for keeping younger anglers reeling and laughing instead of waiting.
No experience needed. Bo handles the tricky parts, teaches as he goes, and lets the kids do the fun part: reeling them in.
A comfortable, capable boat
Family days run aboard Bo’s 23-foot Key West bay boat — a stable, dry, roomy ride with space for up to four anglers. It’s easy to move around, easy to fish from, and comfortable for parents and kids alike. Okeechobee’s fishing is close to the ramp, so there’s no long, rough run to get to the action.
Pick the length that fits your crew
Families come in all shapes and attention spans, so Bo offers 4-, 6-, and 8-hour trips. For younger kids or first-timers, a 4-hour morning is often the sweet spot — you get the best bite of the day and are back before anyone melts down. Got seasoned young anglers who want to grind it out? Go longer. Not sure? Tell Bo who’s coming and he’ll recommend the right fit.
What to bring
Bo provides the rods, reels, tackle, and know-how (live wild shiners available — just ask when you book). You just bring:
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats for everyone
- Light, comfortable clothes and a light jacket on cool mornings
- Snacks and plenty of drinks — especially water for the kids
- A camera or phone
- Florida freshwater fishing licenses — most anglers need their own, and they’re quick to get online at GoOutdoorsFlorida. Bo will point you to it when you book.
Why families come back
The fish are a big part of it, but the reason families rebook is the experience: an easygoing, patient captain who genuinely enjoys teaching kids, a safe and comfortable boat, and a day built around fun instead of a fishing lesson. Some trips are about a kid’s first fish. Some are three generations in one boat. Either way, everybody leaves with a story.
Ready to make a memory on the Big O? Book a family trip and let Bo know how many anglers and how old the crew is — he’ll take care of the rest.