[Gearhead]

Never been on the island , Me and some friends are carrying our little boys on a father son fishing/camping trip the weekend of April 20-23 , Should we go south or north after being dropped by Davis Ferry to fish/camp , once we set up camp we don't plan to move . It seems it will be high tide that afternoon when we arrive , I wish it was low tide so it would be easier to set up on a hole or slough, any suggestions on going north or south and suggestions for bait tis time of the year would be greatly appreciated to show these kids a good time . Thanks

 

[rocket]

Never been on the island , Me and some friends are carrying our little boys on a father son fishing/camping trip the weekend of April 20-23 , Should we go south or north after being dropped by Davis Ferry to fish/camp , once we set up camp we don't plan to move . It seems it will be high tide that afternoon when we arrive , I wish it was low tide so it would be easier to set up on a hole or slough, any suggestions on going north or south and suggestions for bait tis time of the year would be greatly appreciated to show these kids a good time . Thanks

It's hard to say which will be better in April. I prefer to set up camp at the south end. From north of the lighthouse to the south point there can be good structure and you also have the option of going around to the jetty, with good holes to be found between the point and jetty as well. If you are tent camping take a look at the wind forecast and try to use the dunes for protection if necessary. Don't set up out in the open.

You'll want to at least come over with fresh shrimp. If you can find or net fresh jumping mullet that would be a bonus. Try http://drumwagon.com/fishrep/. That forum will have more folks familiar with the island.

 

[Gearhead]

Thanks Rocket , I didn't think about the wind and tents . So south has some structure that's a plus.

 

[HStew]

if you find a clear spot to camp in the dunes off the beach, you may see lots of ***** and really sharp cactus (don't go bare foot)

 

[rocket]

if you find a clear spot to camp in the dunes off the beach, you may see lots of ***** and really sharp cactus (don't go bare foot)

I've never had an issue with the cactus around the south end but do keep an eye out. The raccoons were mostly killed by the park service a few years ago. I hear they are making a come back but I wouldn't expect large numbers of them. Be sure to keep any food locked down because they are smart and will find a way to get to it if they can.

 

[bubbagump]

You didn't say how young the boys are, but consider that the weather that time of year can be cold and windy, or it can be very nice. Plan to dress in layers. There are some good camping areas just off the back road just south of the lighthouse within a reasonable walking distance to the privies. Bring plenty of sunscreen and insect repellant. Be prepared to move around to find fishing locations after you set up camp. If you get a big Northeast blow, the east facing beach can become unfishable. You can head south to the point or west back towards the jetty if that happens. If all else fails, the Park Service's dock by the lighthouse usually produces pinfish if you want to make sure the boys feel a tug. Teach the boys to dig sand fleas if you can find them. They will have fun learning to catch their bait.

 

[Gearhead]

Thanks guys, youngest boy is 10, oldest around 14 and a couple between I believe, So we need to camp on the back side of the dunes somewhat protecting us , In my head I was visualizing camping right on the main beach with ocean out front and dunes to our back just back far enough from high tide . I was planning to buy one sand flea rake to let them share.