If you have never taken your tween fishing before, what are you waiting for? Fishing is a great way to spend quality time as a family or for some one-on-one bonding between father and son. Actually, girls enjoying fish, too. So, here are some tips to make your trip fun, and hopefully you will be bringing dinner home tonight.
Fishing Basics
- Do some research ahead of time, so you can plan a trip to a place that is known to be stocked with fish. You can also try lakes in your area. Fish like to hang out in places close to rocks and logs. This is because they feel like they can hide behind these things to protect them from danger.
- Using live bait offers better chances of making a catch, though it may not be your kids first pick. If you opt not to use live bait, other choices might be salmon eggs, cheese, or other suggestions from a local bait and tackle store.
- Exercise plenty of patience, if you are taking your child fishing for the first time. It is not easy at first, but they will learn when given time.
- If you are an expert at fishing, be careful not to overload your child with every bit of information you know. He just wants to have fun, experiment, and spend time with you.
- Bring along a First-Aid kit just in case you or your child loses a battle with the hook, or other injury.
Fishing Equipment
- Keep the equipment simple. The less time you are preparing the equipment the better. Kids just want to feel a fish on their line, and that is exciting enough for them. They are not really concerned about fancy equipment.
- Kids fishing equipment should be comfortable and easy to handle. Wal-Mart has a great selection of low-priced fishing rods with styles that kids love.
- Think about how often you will take your child fishing to determine how much you want to spend on equipment. If it is a one-time shot, go light. If you plan to make this a summer hobby, invest in equipment that will last a little longer.
- Basically, you will need a rod and reel (fishing pole), hooks, and weights. You may also want a bobber. This will tell you when a fish is on the line.
What to Do When You Get a Catch
You have two options:
- Keep the fish.
- Throw it back into the water.
Check your local fishing laws about permits and rules determining if you can keep a fish (usually based on the fish's size and what kind you caught).
If you are keeping your fish, have a bucket or carrier filled with ice to place the fish in. This will keep them cold until you are able to cut them up for dinner.
If you plan to return the fish to the water, keep it in the water and gently remove the hook. You may have to revive the fish by moving it back and forth a bit. It will eventually swim off.
Fishing Fun
- Bring along your camera. You want to be sure to get pictures of your tween and his catches.
- Pack a picnic lunch. Bring blankets, sunscreen, and plenty to drink.
- Bring games along to keep you occupied while waiting for a catch. Don't throw stones or rocks into the water because...you'll scare away all the fish!
- Best of all, have fun. Enjoy relaxing and spending time together.
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