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As soon as we hit the beach for vacation last week, my kids started begging to go fishing. We headed over to the nearest pier, bought a rod and bait and got to work. They had a blast! They only caught a few fish (which we threw back promptly), but the experience was enough to get them HOOKED (I know, I’m hilarious)!
As soon as we got home, I purchased my fishing license online, changed the rigs from saltwater to freshwater and headed to the lake. We didn’t have any luck that day, but they are still asking to go back, because fishing is fun!
If your kids are asking to try fishing or even if you have experienced fishermen or fisherladies, here are a few tips to keep your kids fishing for life.
- Don’t go crazy on the rod or tackle. You can start your child off with a small rod and reel combo, a few hooks, tiny weights, a cork or bobber and some bait. Worms or crickets work well in our area.
- Research before heading out. If you don’t have a boat, finding a place for kids to fish is tricky. Make sure you find a place with a dock, pier or level land. Some great places to fish in our area are around Lake Wylie and the Catawba River and also at the Anne Springs Greenway. You can find a list here.
- Get your license. Kids under 16 do not need a license to fish. However, if you are out there with them, you are going to want to help them out and cast a few yourself. License are only $13 online and you can also buy them at your local Wax-Mart and other sporting goods stores. (If you are at the beach and using a public pier that has a fee, this typically includes your license for the day.)
- Be patient. Your first trip out will probably only last an hour or so, but it can be boring if nothing is biting. Be sure to bring sunscreen, bug spray, drinks, snacks and a comfortable place to sit.
- Don’t pressure them to catch a fish. Make the trip seem all about the chase. You can say things like “we are going to try to catch a fish” or “fishing is a great way to spend time together”. This will make them less disappointed if you leave empty handed.
- Teach them to respect wildlife. If you are not going to eat the fish, please release them. Fishing for sport can be just as fun as fishing for dinner.
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No matter what the outcome of your fishing trip, you will have spent an amazing day together, made lots of memories and possibly come up with some “whoppers” to tell.
