What’s cuter than seeing your child waddle around with a tiny fishing rod in hand, trying their hardest to catch their first fish?
Fishing is a popular hobby for adults, but kids can also benefit from this outdoor activity that teaches patience, concentration, and appreciation for nature. By bringing your child to the water and teaching them these must-know angler’s tips, you can turn them from a curious onlooker to a skilled angler in no time!
Introduce Them to the Equipment
Before heading out to the water, familiarize your child with the fishing equipment you want them to use. Show them how to hold the rod and reel, how to cast properly, and how to set the hook when a fish bites.
Safety First
Safety should always be a top priority when fishing with kids. Make sure they understand the importance of wearing a life jacket and staying away from dangerous areas such as swift currents or deep water.
Teach Them About Different Fish
Take some time to educate your child about the different types of fish they can catch in the area. Show them pictures and describe their unique characteristics. The smallmouth bass? You’ll find them in rocky or sandy lakes, streams, and rivers. Brown trout? They have a beautiful spotted pattern and a preference for cool, clear water.
Knowing about the different types of fish can make fishing more exciting for your child. They’ll have something to look out for and be able to identify what they catch.
Understanding Seasonal and Weather Patterns
Did you know the season and weather can affect where you can find fish and how fish behave? For example, knowing a few tips for fishing during summer heat, such as waiting to fish until the early morning or late evening, can increase your chances of success. In contrast, during colder months, fish may be less active and seek warmer water. Teaching your child how seasonal and weather patterns can affect fishing can help them understand when and where to fish for the best catch.
Handling Their Catch
Your child will need to know how to handle their catch once they’ve reeled it in. Teach them how to gently remove the hook and release the fish back into the water if it’s not a keeper. For keepers, show them how to properly store the fish in a cooler or on ice until it’s time to clean and cook them.
Respect for Nature
Fishing is an excellent opportunity to teach your child about respect for nature. Encourage them to only take what they need and to always properly dispose of any trash while out on the water. Show them how litter can harm wildlife and explain why it’s important to keep our environment clean.
Practice Patience
No instant gratification here! Your child should know that it may take some time before they catch a fish. Use this as an opportunity to teach them the value of patience and perseverance.
It might take a little while for your child to get the hang of casting, reeling in, and actually catching a fish. But the help of a skilled mentor—you—teaching them these angler’s tricks will help them along their journey to earning the title of Fish Wizard, Ruler of the Waves.
Sam Hopes is a 37-year-old mom of two living in Portland, Oregon. She works as a freelance graphic designer and part-time yoga instructor, juggling creative projects with playdates and PTA emails. Known for her warm personality and dry humor, Sam loves hiking in Forest Park, thrifting on Mississippi Avenue, and weekend visits to OMSI with her kids, Ella and Milo. She’s the kind of parent who forgets sunscreen but always remembers snacks—and a good laugh.