Tide Hustle Fishing Charters is creating hands-on experiences on the water for families
Photos courtesy of Tide Hustle Fishing Charter
Designed to introduce kids and families to fishing in a fun, safe, and supportive environment, Tide Hustle Fishing Charters is your newest family-friendly North Fork experience.
“We offer everything from daily open boat fishing trips to private charters, but what really sets us apart is our focus on creating memorable experiences,” said Captain Rachel Johnson, owner of Tide Hustle, lifelong angler, and a U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captain with a master's degree in education and a background in special education. “Whether someone is an experienced angler or has never held a fishing rod before, we want everyone to feel welcome aboard. Fishing brings everyone together. It doesn't matter if you're five years old or ninety-five; everyone has the same excitement when that rod bends.”
Captain Rachel and her husband, Todd, own and operate Tide Hustle Fishing Charters based out of Brick Cover Marina in Greenport. Their U.S. Coast Guard-inspected vessel accommodates up to 15 passengers, allowing them to provide plenty of space and personalized attention while fishing.
“Teaching has always been a huge part of who I am, and I realized that many of the same skills I used in the classroom translate perfectly onto a fishing boat,” Captain Rachel shared. “Every child learns differently, and my educational background helps me meet each child where they are. Whether a child already loves fishing or is shy or nervous about trying something new, I work to create an environment where they feel comfortable, confident, and successful.”
Tide Hustle Fishing Charters focuses on safety, connection (every catch is celebrated!), and fun with child-appropriate music playing in the background. Everything needed for fishing, including rods, reels, bait, tackle, and fish cleaning, is included, and no experience is necessary. Life jackets are not required, but are available. Children and people of all ages are welcome to attend these family-fun adventures.
“Families can expect a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where no experience is necessary. We provide all of the fishing equipment, bait, tackle, instruction, and fish cleaning,” Captain Rachel told us. “Fishing also gives us a chance to teach children about local marine life and becoming good stewards of our local waterways, something that's incredibly important to me.”
Aboard, parents can rest assured that children will not only learn about the art of fishing, but also about safety.
Captain Rachel explained, “Safety is also a huge priority. I believe children learn best when they feel safe and supported, so we take the time to explain equipment, boat safety, and fishing techniques in a way that's easy to understand. Parents can relax knowing their children are learning in a structured, welcoming environment. We'll teach everyone how to use the rod and reel, bait hooks, handle fish safely, and identify the different species we catch. Kids can choose to keep what they catch or release it back into the water. Along the way, we'll talk about local marine life and hopefully make a lot of great memories together.”
Creating memories is at the core of what Captain Rachel hopes families take away from their time aboard Tide Hustle.
“Fishing has given me some of my favorite memories with family, and I wanted to create those same opportunities for others. Today, kids have so many competing distractions, and it's becoming harder to find activities that bring families together. I wanted to create an experience where families can unplug, spend quality time together, learn something new, and enjoy the incredible natural resources we have here on the North Fork. If a child catches their very first fish and leaves excited about the outdoors, that's a huge win in my book.”
Tide Hustle Fishing Charters currently has three dates of Family Fishing Experiences planned with two trips per day. Sunday, July 26, Sunday, August 2, and Sunday, August 9, with family-friendly trips scheduled for 8 to 11 a.m. and 12 to 3 p.m. The cost is $60 per person.
Captain Rachel hopes that these family fishing experiences become a regular offering through the season; however, private charters are also available. Book your charter online at www.tidehustle.com or call Captain Rachel at 631-384-6294 to learn more.
