Somehow fishing just won’t be the same after you start to take your young angler out fishing with you for the first time. You will experience more memories and fun showing a beginner how to cast, tie knots and select lures.
Keep some of the following tips in mind when fishing with a young one.
Keep it fun! It’s not the size of the fish or whether the fish are biting at all. A young angler will be just as content catching a small crappie using a hook and bobber.
Keep it simple! A fishing outing should not be too complicated. Kids can only take in so much information at any one time; too much will just frustrate them. You do not need fancy equipment; you child will be just as content keeping it simple and spending time with you.
Equipment! Always check fishing equipment prior to going on your fishing outing. You don’t want a problem to arise in the middle of your fishing trip.
Always practice safety! Show your child how to act safely around water and teach them what to do it they get in trouble with water.
Attention span! Always remember the short attention span kids have. The younger the child, the shorter the attention spans. Don’t force your child to fish for hours; you can make the most out of a fifteen-minute fishing trip, just as you could an hour or two.
Make it into an adventure! Fishing at the hole doesn’t have to be it. Plan the whole outing from the start. Enjoy buying the fishing license together, take a look of a map of the area you are heading out to and plan for a lunch break.
A fun experience! When a child has a fun and successful experience at fishing they will be hooked on fishing for generations. Giving your child the praise and confidence will make even the smallest catch seem like a BIG one.
Lots of picture! Never forget the most important thing, photos. Capture this daily with plenty of photographs.
Make a checklist for your day of fishing. Include the following items:
- Stocked tackle box
- Fishing line (6 to 8 pound test)
- Small split shot weights (BB style)
- Hooks (size 2 up to 3/0)
- Bobbers
- Pliers
- Lures (plastic worms, spinner bait, top water, and road runner)
- Bait (purchased or picked fresh that day)
- Spin casting reel
- Casting rod
- Sunglasses
- Fingernail clippers to cut the fishing line
- Sunscreen, hat or cap
- Insect repellent
- Long pants and socks (for walking through grass or brush)
- Old shoes you won’t mind getting wet or muddy
- Cooler with drinks, snacks and lunch
- Landing net
- Tape measure (for measuring your catch)
- Camera (for capturing the moments)
- A portable radio
- A raincoat or poncho
Continued >> on the next page
