A Disney World fishing excursion can fill the center of a resort day without using a theme-park ticket. Guided boats take guests onto select waterways for catch-and-release largemouth bass fishing, while two resorts rent gear for fishing from shore.
The first decision is the format. A guided pontoon holds the largest group, a NITRO bass boat is smaller, and dockside fishing keeps the plan close to land. Every option is catch-and-release.
Compare the three fishing options
| Option | Group and time | Best fit |
|---|---|---|
| Sun Tracker Fishin Barge pontoon | Up to 5 guests; 2 or 4 hours | Families and groups that want a guided boat with the most seats. |
| NITRO bass boat | Up to 3 guests; 2 or 4 hours | Smaller parties that prefer a tournament-style bass boat. Live bait is not offered on this boat. |
| Dockside fishing | Gear rental at 2 resort locations | A simpler outing at Port Orleans Riverside or Fort Wilderness without committing to a guided boat. |
How guided excursions work
Guided catch-and-release outings run throughout the year. Two-hour and four-hour excursions are available. An extra hour may be added in person at the marina when space and scheduling allow.
A solo angler may book an afternoon excursion at a reduced rate. Call before building the day around that option so the current time, boat and rate can be confirmed.
What is included
A guided excursion includes an experienced guide, rod and reel, tackle, artificial or live bait, and assorted Coca-Cola beverages. NITRO bass boats use artificial bait rather than live bait.
Guests may bring food and nonalcoholic drinks. Adults age 21 and older may bring alcoholic beverages with valid identification. Keep anything you bring compact enough for the boat and confirm details when reserving.
Where guided boats depart
Guided fishing excursions depart from nine resort 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 Wilderness Lodge
- Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Available excursion waterways include Bay Lake, Seven Seas Lagoon, Village Lake, Crescent Lake and World Showcase Lagoon. Confirm the departure marina and current route when making the reservation.
Where to fish from shore
Dockside gear rental is available at two locations:
- Fishin’ Hole at Ol’ Man Island at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside.
- Bike Barn at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.
This is the lighter option for a non-park day. It avoids a multi-hour boat commitment and can work when only part of the group wants to fish. Check operating availability at the location before traveling across the resort.
How to place fishing in a non-park day
A two-hour boat is the easier fit when the day also includes a pool, resort meal or Disney Springs. A four-hour outing works better as the main event. Leave time to reach the marina and avoid putting a fixed dining reservation immediately after the scheduled excursion.
Pick the marina before planning the rest
Choose the boat size and excursion length first. Once the departure marina is confirmed, group the nearest meal or resort stop around that location.
Do not count on fishing as a quick activity squeezed between park reservations. Even the shorter guided option occupies two hours on the water, plus transportation and marina time.
Life jackets, weather and what to pack
Life jackets are provided. Children age 12 and under must wear one at all times, and Adults are encouraged to wear one as well.
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, rain gear and a hat. Central Florida weather can change quickly, so use clothing that can handle sun, wind and a brief shower. The guide provides the fishing equipment for a guided excursion.
What to settle when you call
- Current price for the selected boat and duration.
- Available departure times and marina.
- Whether the pontoon or NITRO boat suits the party size.
- Any current arrival instructions.
- Weather, cancellation and rescheduling terms.
- Current details for a solo afternoon excursion, if applicable.
Advance reservations are highly recommended. Call 407-939-3474 and keep the confirmed marina with the rest of the day’s transportation plan.
Check the official details: Open Walt Disney World’s fishing page before reserving.
Quick answers
How long are Disney World fishing excursions?
Two-hour and four-hour guided fishing excursions are available. An additional hour may be added in person at the marina when available.
How many people fit on a Disney World fishing boat?
The Sun Tracker Fishin Barge pontoon accommodates up to five guests. A NITRO bass boat accommodates up to three guests.
Does Disney World provide fishing equipment?
Guided excursions include a guide, rod and reel, tackle, bait and assorted Coca-Cola beverages. NITRO boats do not offer live bait.
Can children join a Disney World fishing excursion?
Yes. Guided excursions are available for all ages. Life jackets are provided, and children ages 12 and under must wear one at all times.
Where can I fish from a dock at Disney World?
Fishing gear is available for rental at the Fishin’ Hole at Ol’ Man Island at Port Orleans Resort – Riverside and at the Bike Barn at Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.