Need to get my boys catching, everytime we go all they want to do is swim or go to BPS to eat! don't get me wrong its good times but i need something that is easy for them to cast and reel...

Getcha some slabs and have fun

slabs or minnows

I started with my kids and grandkids by hooking the fish then handing the rod and reel to the kid to reel in. If you want them to hook the fish themselves, I'd start with a hell-pet rig and troll with them holding the rod(perhaps with adult assistance so they don't let go of the rod). Also, the small ones enjoy handling the fish. I let them do this by using the long-nose pliers to pick them up and putting them in the live well or tossing them back overboard. As they get older I teach them to catch fish using a Mepps spinner. I simplify the instructions by just saying cast and let it go to the bottom. Then reel it back to you fast. If I am over fish, they'll catch some and they off and running. Good luck!

For kids I keep a bunch of Zebcos with smaller slabs on them. Small like a 1/2 oz. or so. Find any structure on the outer edges of Robertson Park (Or look for boats huddled up) and fish there. They should catch them. Happy Fishing.

I'm sure some of the guides will weigh-in on this!

When fishing with young kids I would suggest removing the barb. You can thank me later

+1

Book a trip with John Varner, he is an excellent teacher!
http://www.jvguideservice.com/

Agree with all of the above.

Also, I have had to make myself understand that my son isn't as into the hunt for fish as I am. He has a great time when we are slaying them, but gets bored easily while we look. Sometime this is cured by letting him drive the boat from spot to spot. That helps a lot. He is 12 and can drive a boat like you couldn't imagine. Has been on the boat since he was two. I hope this gives him the skills he needs when he becomes a boat owner.

I just have to go out with the mentality that either I get them on fish quick or we check a few spots and if we don' catch, I know soon we will be swimming, eating, etc.

Good luck!

Don't forget to bring the Ipad. I have taken many many youngsters out. Their attention span is very very short. Even when they catch fish then they want to go. My neighbors boy who is five was out fishing with us and we were catching fish. He caught a couple then said can we go. I asked him where he wanted to go and he didn't know. Go figure! I use the Shakespeare synergy combo, or the Zebco 33 combo for kids. Works well. Oh also, catch live bait they love helping catch them, and like to play in the bait tank.