
What Can You Catch on an Offshore Charter from North Devon This Season?
May 6, 2026Looking for something different to do with the children during your time in North Devon? Swap screens for sea views and give them an experience they will remember long after the holiday ends. Our fishing trips for children in Ilfracombe are designed to be fun, relaxed and suitable for all experience levels, whether it is their very first time holding a fishing rod or they already love being out on the water.
Based in Ilfracombe Harbour, we offer family-friendly fishing trips aboard our modern boats, with experienced crew, quality equipment and access to some of the South West’s best fishing grounds.
A Fishing Trip Children Will Remember
There is something special about watching a child catch their first fish. The excitement, the concentration and the smiles when they reel one in create memories that last for years.
Our trips are designed to make fishing easy and enjoyable for children. We provide the rods, bait and tackle, along with plenty of help from our experienced skippers and crew.
Families regularly tell us that fishing becomes the highlight of their North Devon holiday, and it is easy to see why. Time spent together on the water offers something completely different from the usual family attractions.
Mackerel Fishing in Ilfracombe, Perfect for Beginners
Our mackerel fishing trips are especially popular with families and younger children.
Running from late May through to early September, these shorter trips are ideal for keeping children engaged while giving them the excitement of catching fish in the waters around North Devon.
We provide:
- Rods, bait and tackle
- Tuition for beginners
- Help throughout the trip
- Friendly crew support
- The chance to take fish home for the barbecue
Mackerel fishing is fast-paced and fun, making it perfect for children trying fishing for the first time.
Reef Fishing for Families Looking for More Adventure
If your children already enjoy fishing or want to try something different, our reef fishing trips offer another great option.
Fishing around reefs and wrecks along the North Devon coastline gives families the opportunity to target species such as:
- Pollock
- Wrasse
- Bass
- Codling
- Gurnard
Our crew know the local waters exceptionally well and always choose fishing locations based on the tide and sea conditions.
Every trip is different, which is part of what makes fishing exciting.
No Experience Needed
One of the biggest concerns parents have is whether children need fishing experience before coming aboard.
The answer is simple, absolutely not.
Our trips are suitable for beginners, and we are always happy to help children learn the basics. We take time to explain equipment, show techniques and make sure everyone feels comfortable.
We believe fishing should be fun, not complicated.
More Than Just Fishing
A day on the water around Ilfracombe often brings surprises beyond the fish.
Depending on the trip and conditions, families may spot:
- Seals
- Dolphins
- Seabirds
- Stunning North Devon coastline views
Our location also provides access to waters around Lundy Island’s Marine Nature Reserve, one of the South West’s most incredible wildlife locations.
For children who love nature and adventure, it adds even more excitement to the experience.
Family Friendly Boats and Experienced Crew
Safety and enjoyment are always our priority.
Our experienced team have years of local knowledge and work hard to ensure every family has a great experience onboard. Whether helping untangle lines, teaching children how to hold a rod properly or celebrating that first catch, our crew are there to make the trip memorable.
We know fishing is not always catching, but we always do our best to give families the best opportunity possible.
Planning Your Family Fishing Adventure in Ilfracombe
If you are visiting North Devon and looking for something different for the children, a fishing trip offers fresh air, adventure and memories that last.
Whether you choose mackerel fishing, reef fishing or a longer trip exploring deeper waters, there is something special about time spent together at sea.
Join us in Ilfracombe and discover why so many families return year after year for another fishing adventure. Your child’s first catch might just become the highlight of their holiday.
See our fishing trips here: https://wildfrontiercharters.co.uk/ilfracombe-boat-trips/

