Tips For Taking Kids Fishing

Fish for bluegill and other sunfish in the beginning. Sunfish (bream) are usually easy to catch because of their abundance and willingness to bite. Catching fish is important; size isn't.

Plan a short trip depending on the age of the children. An hour or two is plenty for most youngsters.

Pack a cooler with drinks and snacks.

If you go in the summer, fish during the cooler parts of the day. Fish are usually more active in the morning and evening.

Use a push-button spincast reel, but be flexible on how they fish. You may have planned to start with a bobber (float) and live bait, but you may find your budding angler wants to continually cast and reel. Instead of insisting on him sitting still and quiet, tie on an artificial ultra-light lure that they can cast and reel to their heart's desire.

Teach basic skills like casting, knot tying and baiting the hook. Help a first-timer remove the hook from a fish. Hooks are sharp so supervision is advised. Some fish have sharp spines so be careful. Don't let a good experience turn into a painful one.

Recognize all successes and achievements such as putting a bobber on or making a great cast. Always give pats on the back and never make discouraging comments.

If the youngster becomes impatient or bored, take a break and explore other wildlife and the natural surroundings. Point out birds, frogs, turtles, flowers, trees, insects and other items of interest.

Bring the camera to preserve the memories. Other recommended items are sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent, and a trash bag to leave the place cleaner than you found it.

Make fishing outings quality time. Leave the cell phone in the car or packed away for emergencies. Use fishing as a time to communicate and be together.

Don't stop after one trip. Repeat trips will keep the fishing bug alive. Even if you don't catch any fish, don't let the day end on a negative note. On the way home, talk about the fun you had and how you can try again another day.