Are you an avid angler looking for a new adventure? Or perhaps you’re just a Disney enthusiast seeking something different to do with your family during your visit to the Happiest Place on Earth? Either way, fishing at Walt Disney World offers a unique and memorable experience that many guests don’t know is available when visiting.
In this article, we’ll be exploring what fishing experiences are available at Walt Disney World, where you can find them, and we’ll offer a few tips to make your fishing trip as enjoyable as possible. Let’s dive right in!
Fishing At Walt Disney World Resort Hotels
Walt Disney World Resort in Florida is not only home to iconic theme parks and attractions but also hosts a wide range of recreational activities that can be found at select Disney Resort hotels. Among these, fishing stands out as a serene and enjoyable pastime.
Disney World boasts several well-stocked water bodies that offer catch-and-release fishing. These include Bay Lake, Seven Seas Lagoon, Village Lake, Crescent Lake, and the waterways of Port Orleans Riverside. Each of these locations offers a different fishing ambiance, making every trip unique.
Types Of Fishing Experiences Available
At Walt Disney World, you’ll find a few different fishing experiences that are catered to different preferences and skill levels. Here’s a closer look at what’s on offer:
- Port Orleans Riverside: Fishing Pole & Worms – $4 / hour
- Port Orleans Riverside: Family Fishing (up to 6 people): $12.50 / hour
- Fort Wilderness: 30 minute casting rod: $8
- Fort Wilderness: Worms & Wigglers: $5
- Port Orleans Riverside: 7 AM – 3 PM typically
- Fort Wilderness: 9 AM – 5 PM typically
- Hours can vary seasonally
If you’re looking for a more casual fishing experience, dockside fishing is available at certain Walt Disney World resorts. This is a great option for families with young children or for those who want to enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the water.
Fishing gear is available for rental at:
- Fishin’ Hole at Ol’ Man Island at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
- Bike Barn at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
- 7 AM: $270 / 2 hr
- 10 AM: $270 / 2 hr
- 1:30 PM: $235 / 2 hr
- 7 AM: $455 / 4 hr
- 10 AM: $455 / 4 hr
- 1:30 PM: $235 / 4 hr
For those who prefer a more structured experience, Walt Disney World offers guided fishing excursions. These trips are perfect for both novice and experienced anglers, and they provide all the necessary equipment. The guided excursions are typically two-hour or four-hour ventures and can accommodate up to five guests, but the excursion at 1:30 PM can be taken by a single guest for just $170.
In addition to the fishing gear, the excursions come with an experienced guide who can share their knowledge of the local aquatic life and provide tips for a successful catch.
Please be aware that all children below the age of 12 are required to wear a Personal Flotation Device during their time on board. Additionally, any guest under the age of 18 must have an adult accompanying them.
Fishing excursions are available at the following marinas:
- Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
- Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
- Disney’s Contemporary Resort
- Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- Disney’s Old Key West Resort
- Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
- Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
- Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
How To Make Fishing Excursion Reservations
To make reservations for a fishing excursion at Walt Disney World that is provided by Take Me Fishing, call (407) 939-FISH or (407) 939-3474 . It’s possible to secure your reservations 90 days prior to your visit, but please note that they must be made at least 24 hours before the scheduled time.
Things To Remember
Before you head out for your fishing adventure at Walt Disney World, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Plan Ahead: Decide on the type of fishing experience you want and make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Pack Essentials: Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and water bottles to protect your family from the Florida sun.
- Teach Patience: Fishing is a game of patience. Make sure your children understand that catching a fish might take some time.
- Eat Before Your Excursion: Keep kids energized and happy with a range of healthy snacks, but do so before attending your excursion as guests are not allowed to bring their own food, beverage, or coolers.
- Choose Age-Appropriate Activities: If you have young children, consider options like dockside fishing which are more suited to their age and skill level.
- Safety First: Ensure everyone knows basic safety rules such as not running on the docks, handling hooks and bait safely, and wearing life jackets where required.
- Turn It Into A Learning Experience: Teach your kids about different types of fish, the importance of preserving nature, and the principles of catch-and-release fishing.
- Make It Fun: Bring along a camera to capture the moment when they reel in their first catch. You could even make a friendly competition out of who catches the first fish.
- Stay Positive: Even if the fishes aren’t biting, keep the mood light and fun. Remember, it’s all about spending quality time together.
- Wrap-up With A Story: At the end of the day, gather around and share your fishing tales. This can be a great way to bond and create lasting memories.
Experience Disney’s Deluxe Resorts For Less
Fishing at Walt Disney World offers a unique way to enjoy nature, relax amidst the excitement of the theme parks, and reconnect with your family. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking for a new experience, casting a line in the waters of Walt Disney World is sure to create lasting memories!
If you’d like to view confirmed reservations for rent, you can experience Disney’s Deluxe resorts for less, even without being a DVC member! If you’re interested in becoming a member, and joining the DVC family, you can save thousands by shopping from our current resale listings.
DVC Deluxe Resorts
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
