this is just a fun thing for the kids to do,there isnt much you can do other than put a worm on the hook and drop it to the bottom,they do catch quite a few fish though.you really cant cast from the dock due to lack of room with all the kids on it,you could probably drop a jig down.the fish that i have seen caught are bluegills,rock bass,largemouth,yellow perch, and fall fish.good luck!!!