– Equipment: When I was a kid, I remember two distinctly different types of fishing rods: ones for adults and ones for kids. Children’s rods were often cheap, throw-away plastic and metal. Now, there are varying sizes and makes of rod for children. Take a trip to your local sports equipment store and see which rod fits your kid. However, if your child handles one of your old rods with ease, let him or her at it!
– The Shore: Fishing begins from the shore. Find a nearby body of water, and find a spot in the early morning. This can usually be helped by the workers at a local bait shop, who can help you find the right place and the right bait for a successful day of fishing. After finding an isolated spot along the shore, teach your child how to correctly bait the hook, and how to attach sinking weights and bobbers (leave lures for later). Then it’s finally time to cast out! Let your child put into motion the practice they’ve had with the rod. If things start to go sour, being at the shore makes packing up and leaving a breeze.
– The Boat: After a few separate and successful trips fishing on the shore, it may be time to get in a boat and head to the middle of the lake. Take some provisions, bait, and a positive attitude. Being on the water makes leaving difficult, as it ruins fishing for more than yourself when an outboard motor rumbles to life. Remember to have fun and enjoy this one-on-one time with your child.
Fishing is a calm, patient, and rewarding sport. Whether you’ve been fishing since your childhood, or you’re just getting to know the ropes yourself, including your children on this venture can be a rewarding experience for the entire family.
About the author
This is a guest post from Cypress Cay Pontoons, a pontoon boat manufacturer distributing boats nationwide.