Teaching Your Kids How To Fish

We understand that someday you might want to take your kids fishing with you. We also understand that you might be unsure of how to handle them and make them enjoy fishing. Don't worry; we have some pointers on teaching your kids how to fish.

How To Teach Kids How To Fish

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• Practice Casting At Home: You should practice casting at home before heading out for the trip. This will help get the kids acquainted with the fishing rod and line.
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• Use Fishing Equipment Designed For Kids: Kids might not be able to handle a full fishing rod. Buy a no-tangle fishing rod for them. You can get these rods in colorful designs and small sizes with plastic hooks. They are perfect for children.
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• Pack Special Items For Kids: It is important that you make the fishing experience very enjoyable for your children. Remember that first impressions last longer. Pack chocolate, snacks, fruit drinks and other goodies they might enjoy. Also, pack sunshades, sunscreen, life jackets, insect repellent and any other item necessary for kids. Some of these items might not be needed for adults, but they will make the fishing experience better for kids.
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• Plan For Other Activities: You can make the fishing trip much more enjoyable by creating time for other activities like catching frogs and swimming. 
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• Select An Appropriate Location: Before the trip, scout ahead and find a location with plenty of fish. Children will enjoy the trip more if they catch a lot of fish. At this stage, the type or variety of the fish doesn't matter much to them.  
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• Take Only As Many Children As You Can Supervise: Do not go with more children than you can handle. If possible, go with another adult who knows how to fish. This will make it easier to control and monitor the kiddos. It will also prevent you from getting frustrated.
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• Don't Make Things Complex: When you are explaining fishing terms, equipment and methods, keep it as simple as possible. Do not confuse kids with complex terminologies and lengthy explanations. Remember, you are dealing with kids here.
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• Have A Lot Of Patience: Be very patient, as this is probably the first time they are fishing. Sometimes kids ask a lot of questions; do not ignore them. Take your time to answer and encourage your kids.
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• Do Not Fish For Too Long: If your fishing takes too long, your kids could get bored and tired. Plan for a short trip that won't last for more than a few hours. When the kids indicate that they want to stop, then it is time to stop. It doesn't matter what else you have planned ahead, you have to put them first.
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Remember that the kids are your priority on this fishing trip. They should enjoy it so much that they will want to come back again for another trip. Try to do all you can to make it enjoyable for them. Be patient with them and take the right items along with you. If you follow these tips on teaching your kids how to fish, you and your kids should have a pleasant fishing experience.

Use our interactive map to find great fishing and boating spots and enjoy a day in the water with your family. To learn more about fishing and boating, visit TakeMeFishing.org.