Tips for fishing with kids

PRACTICE: If children want to learn casting, spend a little time with it a few days before the fishing adventure. Use a ‘practice plug’ instead of a real hook.

BARBLESS HOOKS: For safety, use only barbless hooks. Otherwise, use needle-nosed pliers to bend down the barbs on all hooks used.

BAIT: Use simple baits (worms, bread, etc.) along with a bobber (float) or sinker rig for fishing on the bottom. It is easier than lure fishing, and allows kids to have fun doing other things while waiting for bites.

AN EASY CATCH: Fish for plentiful and easily caught fish.

KEEP SOME & RELEASE SOME: Only keep fish that you plan to eat. Introduce children to the ‘catch-and-release’ concept of allowing fish to grow bigger to catch another day.

SHORT & SWEET: Make the trip short. It is better for children to leave wishing they could stay a little longer than for them to wish they had left sooner.

BAIT IT & REEL IT IN: Make the day a positive one. Be prepared to help where needed and build confidence by praising their efforts and accomplishments.
Most importantly, let them reel in the fish ‹ that¹s the fun part.

SAFETY FIRST: Since you will be by water, all children should wear a life preserver (PFD or Personal Flotation Device).

LET¹S EAT: Make it a picnic. Bring food, snacks and drinks so that between skipping stones, wading and landing fish, you can all enjoy an outdoor meal.

ENVIRONMENT: Conversation during meal time is also a great opportunity to instill responsibility by pointing out the importance of leaving the area cleaner than you find it. You can introduce kids to nature, the value of the environment, the importance of fish and game laws, and the biology and habitat of fish.

HAVE FUN: The number of fish caught, the species of fish, or the size of the fish are secondary. It is important for children to enjoy the outdoors and fishing. The ‘fun’ part is vital, so that they will want to go fishing again. Such trips will help cement relationships and teach children a sport that they can enjoy their entire lives.