Excited and Overwhelmed

[Stitch76]

We are taking our first trip to the Fort in a few months, (July 17-25).
I have been a busy bee, gathering as much info as possible, but there's just sooo much, I feel like I'm studying for an exam, and I'm gonna forget everything when we get there.
We're using Tina's "Wildcat" 5th wheel from "Camp at the Fort". So luckily we don't have to worry about setting the camper up. (Thank you Tina )
But there is still so much, I'm hoping all the Fiends on here can help me.

We would like to take the kids fishing, where is the best place to take KIDS. We don't want to wade in a swamp, and we can't afford an excursion. We'd just like the kids to be able to catch a few bluegill or something small. Also do they sell bait (worms) anywhere in the Fort, or would we be better off, buying it on the way down somewhere?

We also thought about bringing bikes for the girls (my DDs are 8 and 10), but since hearing of the horrible accident recently, where the little boy rode his bike into the side of a bus, I am questioning this decision.
Is there anywhere really for them to ride them (safely), such as a "bike path" or something, I will be watching them like a hawk, but I am not comfortable with them riding on the sidewalk.

Another question, (sorry ), I know the heat is going to be a booger in July, but what about bugs? We went to WDW in 08 and stayed at the ASM. We didn't remember seeing a single bug in the parks or at the resort the whole time we were there. We figured Disney sprayed, but we were wondering about the Fort. Do they spray, or are the bugs pretty bad. This is a major issue. Usually bites are uncomfortable, but on DD 10 they swell up and make huge knots. DS 3 and myself usually get eaten up pretty good too.
If the bugs are bad, what have you all found to work the best against them. I don't want to use anything too powerful, especially on DS 3. I usually use Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard, around home. It works okay, but sometimes when the bugs are really bad, even that doesn't deter them.

One more question, (actually a million, but I will only bother ya'll with one more for now). What time do they usually start gathering to watch the MK Fireworks and Water Pageant (Parade), at the Fort, and where is the best spot? Do people take lawn chairs and sit on the beach, or what? We would like to do this one night, but don't want to show up late to a crowd of people, and our only view is of a tree or something.

Sorry for the long post, but as a Fort "Newbie", I figured I'd go right to the source and ask the ones who REALLY know. Thanks in advance!!

 

[motherwild]

RElAX. There is so much to see & do. you can't do it all in one visit.
I think the fireworks are about 9pm and the Electric water padgent is about 9:45. You should get a schedual when you check in.
There are chair and table near the dock. Get a little crowded for the firework where all the chairs are taken but there is still plenty of room to see everything. I have never been there in July but never had a problem with bugs.
I would suggest the campfire with Chip & Dale. You can bring your own marshmallows and sticks.

 

[Born 2 Fish]

From what you said,,I would take the kids to one of the ponds at the Fort,,no wading,,easy to fish.
BRING your own worms. Yes, you can buy worms at the Fort, FOR A TON OF MONEY !! Go to your local Wal-Mart before you come and buy worms,,put the box of worms inna bag and keep them in the fridge (they;ll keep for ever).

Another suggestion for bait,,try a few different things outta your fridge,,hot dog pieces,, pop corn,,melon pieces, etc,,use your imagination,,you'd be surprized what fish at the Fort will hit.

 

[ntsammy5]

Another suggestion for bait,,try a few different things outta your fridge,,hot dog pieces,, pop corn,,melon pieces, etc,,use your imagination,,you'd be surprized what fish at the Fort will hit.

Otters have tried to use beer and that doesn't work. Just a word of warning!

 

[YodaGirl]

Another suggestion for bait,,try a few different things outta your fridge,,hot dog pieces,, pop corn,,melon pieces, etc,,use your imagination,,you'd be surprized what fish at the Fort will hit.

Grant it, they didn't at the Fort, but DH used to catch bluegill with corn, and my granddaddy has been known to catch fish with gumdrops. Who woulda thought?

 

[Stitch76]

Thanks for all the great info so far, it's highly appreciated.

 

[polkadotsuitcase]

We also thought about bringing bikes for the girls (my DDs are 8 and 10), but since hearing of the horrible accident recently, where the little boy rode his bike into the side of a bus, I am questioning this decision.
Is there anywhere really for them to ride them (safely), such as a "bike path" or something, I will be watching them like a hawk, but I am not comfortable with them riding on the sidewalk.

On our last visit, my guys were 8 and 10. We rode our bikes for hours all over the Fort without incident in loops, on sidewalks, down the path between the Fort and WL...everywhere. I'm as cautious as the next mom, but not once did I ever feel nervous or worried for our safety.

If you want to bring the bikes but want to rule out sidewalks entirely, I think you'll rule out most riding altogether. However, many sidewalks aren't directly beside the road, as was the case with the tragedy earlier. That said, if I understand where the accident happened, I think if the kids had cut through the 1400 loop path, they would have avoided that stretch of road entirely. My point being, you wouldn't have to ride on that particular stretch -- if it makes you nervous -- and still be able to, say, ride to the pool.

Anyhoo. My vote is don't let fear stop you from bringing bikes, but plan your routes wisely so you won't have to fret while you're there!

And have fun whatever you decide!