Kids Fishing

Kids Fishing

Some parents assume that fishing is an expensive hobby. They mistakenly believe that in order to fish, they must own a boat, boating supplies, and expensive fishing gear. Nothing could be further from the truth! Haven't tried to take your kids fishing because you don't know what you need or how to fish? We've got all the information you need to spend a fun and inexpensive day fishing with your kids.

Supplies

You'll need to gather a few fishing supplies before you head out to the nearest creek, river, lake, or pond. All you really need is a fishing pole, hooks, and some kind of bait.

• Poles: Sure, you can buy an expensive fishing rod and reel, but it may not guarantee you more fish. All you really need is an inexpensive rod and reel set or even a cane pole. For little anglers, look for small rod/reel sets designed for little hands.
• Bait: Live bait typically works better than the artificial kind when you are fishing with children. You can purchase crickets and worms at local bait shops, and sometimes stores, such as Wal-Mart, carry them as well. Another popular bait choice is chicken or turkey liver. You can find liver at a nearby grocery store. Turkey liver tends to stay on the hook better than chicken, but it can be harder to find. Take along a pair of scissors so that you can cut small pieces of liver to place on the hook. When you get home, put the liver in the freezer until your next fishing trip. Any one of these baits will almost guarantee at least a few nibbles if any fish are in the area.
• Hooks: If you are fishing for bream, you'll need very small hooks. If you are fishing for bass or catfish, you can use a bigger hook, but don't go too big, or your fish may not be able to get it in his mouth.
• Bobbers: Taking your kids fishing will certainly be an adventure, especially if you are all novice anglers. Don't be surprised if you don't actually get to do much fishing because you are busy baiting hooks and helping your kids reel in their fish. Since it can be difficult for fishermen of any age to know when a fish is on the line, plan on using a bobber. You may need to adjust its location on the fishing line according to the depth of the water. As soon as a fish takes it under, give a slight pull to set the hook, and reel that fish in!
• Weights: You'll probably need to add a small weight to the fishing line to help keep the line in the water. Take along a pair of pliers to use for placing the weight on the line.

Finding the Fish

Now that you've stocked up on fishing supplies, where do you take your kids fishing? Depending upon your area, you may have a large selection of public waterways, fishing piers, creeks, and even stocked lakes. To find an appropriate location:

• Search for information at Mr. River.
• Check with your state's conservation department.
• One of your best resources is the store from which you purchased your fishing supplies and bait. Ask one of the employees for help and advice on where to take your kids fishing.

Fishing Contests

Some fishing organizations such as Crappie International hold fishing rodeos or fishing contests for kids in various areas of the country. The winners may receive prizes, and participants are often treated to hotdogs, chips, and drinks. Registration is usually free and open to kids up to a specific age. This is a wonderful way to introduce your kids to fishing as well!

Online Resources

• Fishing Vacations: Looking for a unique way to vacation with your family this year? Consider incorporating fishing into your plans. For help in planning your fishing vacation, check out this site.
• Fishing Clubs: You can find information on youth fishing clubs at this site.
• Fishing Youth Camps: Consider sending your kids to a fishing youth camp. For more info, click here.

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