The secret to a successful fishing trip with kids is to keep it brief, easy, and patient.
Both kids and adults can enjoy fishing. In addition to spending valuable time together, families can take a break from their busy lives to enjoy the sun, laugh, and the fresh air.
Some people might find it scary to introduce young children to the sport, but it’s actually pretty easy if you plan ahead.
“Patience is key,” says Greg Schoby, who is in charge of fishing for the Idaho Department of Fish and Game in Salmon. “Be happy and have fun, and remember that it’s not just your fishing trip; it’s also theirs.”
Parents who teach their kids how to fish should also see it as an investment that will pay off in the long run.
She says, “If you wait and do it right, you’ll get paid back later when they take you fishing.”
Important to catch: Getting kids interested in fishing means getting a fish on the line quickly. For kids, it’s not how big they are but how many they catch. Finding a pond or lake with lots of fish is very important. It’s easy to find family-friendly fishing spots in Idaho thanks to Idaho Fish and Game.
Do not complicate: You can use closed-face reels and short, light poles. You just need a few small hooks, bobbers, and sinkers that are 1 inch long. The Take Me Fishing vans from Idaho Fish and Game have loaner fishing rods, tackle, and bait, as well as experienced anglers who can help you if you don’t have your own gear or have never fished before. These trailers show up at fishing spots across the state that have a lot of fish. To see a list of free events near you.
Say only what you need to say: Little kids have short attention spans. Don’t hold kids hostage while they watch their fishing poles if the fish aren’t biting. A break to skip rocks or spend time at the beach is a good idea. Let them do whatever makes them happy and lets them enjoy the outdoors. Don’t be shocked if they don’t put getting fish first. Remember that your fishing trips will last longer as your child’s attention span grows.
Be patient and know that you probably won’t be fishing much yourself while you untangle lines and bait hooks. Most likely, they’ll get tangled, dirty, or even wet. But remember that getting mad at kids is the fastest way to stop them from wanting to go fishing. Be gentle and keep the trip short (less than an hour for beginners). This will help you make a fishing buddy for life.
Snack breaks: Bring a cooler with you and fill it with treats, granola bars, cookies, and a lot of snacks. Take a break after about 30 minutes of fishing. Take a break and then fish for 30 minutes. Kids will be more interested in things for longer if they eat snacks during breaks.
Along with hooks, line, and sinkers, don’t forget to bring sunscreen, bug spray, drinks, a few Band-Aids, and, if needed, a fishing license. Kids in the state who are 13 years old or younger do not need a fishing license, but kids 14 years and higher must have one with them at all times while they fish.
Don’t miss chances to teach: Fishing isn’t just about getting fish; it’s also about making memories and learning. Use free time to teach them about fish, bugs, birds, trees, and other animals. Kids will learn a lot in the great woods.
While it’s important to catch and return fish when you’re fishing, it’s also fine to keep a few for the pan if the rules allow it. Also, it might make them think about where the food they eat comes from. It is important to teach your child about where food comes from, just like you teach them about farming.
Leave it cleaner than you found it: Take out your trash and tell the kids to do the same. These lessons teach hunters how to be responsible and careful, which is good for the sport’s future.
The word “fun” is the most important thing if you want your kids to go fishing again. Plan a day with lots of sunshine, take pictures, and enjoy seeing them have fun. Remember this, and every trip will be a success, no matter how many fish you catch.
