When I see or hear something that gives me ideas on what to write about, there are times when it is not the right season or time to write an article on that subject, but yesterday I witnessed many children fishing with their parents with the help from knowledgeable anglers. I should have wrote this article three months ago, but that sight inspired me. hopefully some will learn from this or for next season.

I believe Children are the future of not only fishing but the environment as well. I see so many kids playing games or texting on their phones, and they are not aware of the tremendous environment around them. Taking kids fishing is the perfect way for them to unplug and enjoy the outdoors. That being said, if you have little ones, here are a few pointers on introducing kids to fishing.

First, keep it simple, cheap and fun. Unless the child is 3 or 4years old, I wouldn’t buy them a Spiderman or Barbie rod and reel because a decent 5 to 5 1/2-foot rod and reel combo will be close to the same price and the kids will not outgrow these in a year.

To make their first day on the water better for all, tie a weight on the end of the line and make a game out of practicing in the yard by setting up bucket and see how close they can get to it. This will not only teach them how to grip the rod, cast and reel the line back in, but it also teaches them the rod goes up and down NOT left or right to keep the end of the line (hook) away from others.

When they are ready for their first fishing adventure, clear the boat of ANYTHING that will not be used. (Trust me mom and dad you won’t have time to fish yourself). Head to a good fishing spot that you know will hold fish (LILY PADS), then before the first cast is made, show the kids how sharp the hooks are (without drawing blood, lol). Snap on a bobber, a hook, a worm and have him or her cast out, just like you practiced in the yard.

Then watch the bobber until it goes under water and don’t jerk the rod, just reel in the slack and lift the rod.  If there are 2 or more children that will be fishing, it is a good idea to have them take turns at first until they get the hang of it and you are sure know one will get hooked. When that first fish is caught, show the kids how to handle the fish carefully by that sliding your hand down from the top the dorsal fin so they won’t get hurt.

Here is the most part of all of this (besides safety) give A LOT OF PRAISE. “I can’t believe you caught a fish already” – “look at the size of that fish” – “are you kidding me, you caught another fish”. Trust me, the excitement will be there, but encouragement and praise from mom and dad will be HUGE. It’s all about teaching kids to fish, getting them to unplug, learning about the outdoors and at the same time you get quality family time. Oh, and let’s not forget the sunscreen, water and snacks for the little ones.

IF THEY CATCH THEIR FIRST FISH, SEND US A PITCURE AND WE WILL POST IT.