Gone are those days when kids go out and play in the open. Computers, video games, Play Stations, internet are all kids find interesting these days. Our busy schedules keep us on our toes and there is hardly any time to enjoy a good time together, let alone take them fishing. But once you manage to take them out in the water, they are sure to love the sport just as you do! If your kids have never been out fishing, it is time, don’t worry, it is not hard work. Who taught you how to fish? Definitely wasn’t a school teacher. You can teach them the basics at least and with time they will also develop a knack for it.
Now that you have made up your mind to take your kids fishing, you must be wondering how to go about the entire process. There are just a few simple pointers that you should follow.
First and foremost, you have to keep things simple. Starting off with bait fishing is a good idea. Lure fishing needs a little practice which the kids are not patient enough for. Handlines would suffice instead of expensive tackles. They will be able to feel the bite more. Fiber glass rods work well for the beginners; these are cheap as well as durable. Same goes with the reel; you just need a cheap fishing reel.
Kids don’t fuss about the size of the fish they catch. They are too happy and excite to just catch a fish! They want action more than anything. It fascinates them to just see the fish swim around and then take your bait. Do not do everything for the kids, let them get involved. But be sure to supervise. There are some sharp hooks involved. Show the kids how to handle them in a proper way to avoid getting hurt.
If you want you can even ask a fishing guide for a little supervision along with you, which will enable the kids, will learn a lot more.
If you have a boat, kids will have more fun on the boat but make sure all the safety precautions have been met with. All the kids should be made to wear a personal flotation device or a PFD. Before you get down to fish, they need to be explained about the dos and don’ts on the boat. Kids should also have protection from the sun, hats, sun blocks, lots of fluid and snacks incase they get hungry and start feeling sick. Trolling is a good idea since you have a boat. Dragging deep lures along the drop offs is a great way to catch some trout.
If you don’t have a boat, shore fishing is the way to go. You can also show the kids how to take care of nature and the wildlife. Before you take the kids out, make sure you keep a check on the weather; you would not want to take them fishing and return home due to bad weather. Practice catch and release and tell them why it is essential. Teach them the right ethics and make them aware of the upsides associated with fishing. It is a great way to spend a quality time in the outdoors with the entire family in minimum cost. Good Luck!
Allan Simons is an expert angler from Down Under Australia. He also is an accomplished author of various interesting and informative articles on fishing, fishing safety, fishing tackles and many such tiopics.