I was going to mention about the life jackets also, but when I looked the second time I saw the kids had them on & thought they must have been under their coats.
I agree with Pap cables stretch & things get out of adjustment, loose screws ,shifter. I know a good o/b mech. lives in Colden & very reasonable if you need one.
Good luck with getting your problem fixed. Jmo. but remember kids don't care about big fish, size doesn't matter to them they like quantities/numbers. Maybe a pan fish trip would be a good idea. again Jmo.
FYI, for the sea sickness try taking some ginger root capsules an hour before you go on the water. it can be found in the vitamin section at the stores & you can take as many as needed/when ever. They worked for me.