Do you love fishing? Go ahead and share that passion with kids. Fishing together gives you the opportunity to bond, teach them a new sport, and create lasting memories that they will always treasure.
Getting kids involved from the get-go is key. Kids love to feel included and teaching them a sense of responsibility can go a long way. Take into consideration how old they are, and give them simple tasks they can be responsible for. It all starts even before you head out the door. Make a list of supplies you will need for your fishing trip. This list should include sunblock, insect repellent, hats, sunglasses, extra clothes, water shoes, personal flotation devices, first aid kit, simple tackle and bait. Also, don't forget to bring along a cooler filled with snacks and plenty of liquids. Kids tend to get hungrier more often than adults. Go down the checklist and have the kids make sure you've got everything. Also, don't forget to bring along your fishing license.
Choose a location that you know will result in fishing success. Nothing is more disappointing than not catching or seeing any fish. With that being said, also teach kids that fishing is not only about catching fish but trying to catch fish. Be patient with them and give them lots of encouragement. Give them frequent breaks so that they don't get bored or discouraged. Let them play in the water, throw stones, or any other form of free play to keep them busy.
Teaching kids how to fish is also important. Keep it simple by teaching them the three basic techniques:
Tying a Fisherman's Knot
Insert the fishing line through the "eye" of the hook. Pull out about 10 inches of line. Use those extra inches of line and wrap it around the primary fishing line about five times. Gather the end of the 10 inch line and loop through the eye of the hook once again.
Baiting Your Hook
Instead of threading the worm through the center, it is best to thread the worm lengthwise on to your hook. This will help your worm stay on your hook and prevent a fish from coming and stealing worms off your hook.
Casting
It's easier for kids to cast over their shoulders. Have them hold down the reel button with their thumb. Get ready to cast the line. As they cast the line have them let go of the button. Reel in the slack line. You want the line tight so you can feel when a fish is tugging on it.
It is best if you show kids how to do these techniques before they actually try to do them alone. Practicing before heading out would be a good idea.
Also, in teaching kids how to fish, take the opportunity to teach them about the safety skills involved in fishing. Such as not playing with the hook and being safe in and around water. It will be essential in ensuring a great fishing experience.
The idea is to make fishing fun. Make it an experience that they will want to look forward to repeating time and time again. Remember, these are memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.
