Tips for Fishing with Kids

A child’s first fishing trip is exciting for both parent and child. A fun experience can lead to future years of fishing enjoyment. Here are some simple tips for taking kids fishing.

• pack plenty of snacks and cold drinks
• choose a spot close to home
• morning trips are best – the fish bite better and kids have more energy
• make sure there are restrooms near
• pick a sunny day with moderate temperatures
• keep the trip short – a couple hours at most
• leave your fishing rod at home
• remember you are taking the kids — they aren’t taking you
• take plenty of breaks from fishing
• take pictures
• plan alternate activities to do if the weather turns bad or your child gets bored
• emphasize that fishing is fun, catching is a bonus
• have fun!

Fishing Trip Checklist

• bobbers
• camera
• cooler/ice
• drinks
• fishing license (all anglers16 years and older)
• fishing rods, youth
• first aid kit
• insect repellent       
• life jackets
• snacks
• sunglasses
• sunscreen     
• wet wipes
• worms

Safety Tips

• Bring a basic first aid kit with sterile bandages, tape, antiseptic, band aids, aspirin, scissors, wire cutters, tweezers, analgesic cream, sunscreen, and insect repellant.
• A wide brim hat and sunglasses will keep the sun out of your child’s eyes and off his forehead. Avoid fishing in the middle of the day.
• Life jackets are strongly recommended for children fishing around deep or fast-moving water. Make sure the life jacket fits your child snugly and won’t ride up around their face.