Reel fun for all ages
FISHING is for everyone, the fish don’t care if you’re tall or short, big or small, old or young.
If a bait is presented properly, a fish will bite no matter who is holding the other end of the line and the feeling is universal.
My wee lad caught his first fish at two with a bit of assistance, stood in the river in green dinosaur wellies.
He did more splashing and stone throwing that day but that’s the fun of it.
My friend started out over Easter with his youngster, he kept it simple and, whilst they caught nothing during the school break, it was all good fun.
Must’ve been a decent job as he got a superb text through at work: “When you get home can we go fishing?” Tides were right, the sun was out and within a couple of hours they were walking down the estuary.
A bit of practise casting, some scouting about and within an hour Livvy had her first fish on the bank. A silvery seatrout you’d be happy with all day long swam off back through the bladder rack and he’s got a new fishing buddy.
Start Early but Slowly
Don’t rush your beginner into fishing with overexposure – they can’t sit still and fish for hours like we do. Training a future fisherman or fisherwoman is a process.
Start by strolling along the shoreline and spotting a fish or two, let them a go at casting or picking out lures or baits for you. When you do go out, take them somewhere you’re more or less guaranteed a bite to keep them interested.
What else is nearby? A wee cafe or a park is ideal so you can pack up and go for an ice cream or play on the swings.
Make sure the weather is decent – don’t push on through a rubbish day as there will be plenty more chances to get outside and enjoy it.
Essential Equipment
Children, just like adults, need equipment that is built for their needs. A five-year-old, or even an eight-year-old, can’t handle adult-sized rods and reels comfortably. Shorter rods and smaller, lighter reels will reduce fatigue and overall frustration, so scale down to suit them. Stay safe – get a life jacket that fits if they’re going to be on the boat, near deep water or drops.
Bring Snacks, Take Breaks
After a few outings, slowly increase the length of future trips. Try fishing in periods. Fish for 30 minutes and then take a break. Fish for 30 minutes and then take another break.
You’ll be doing the majority of the casting to start, little arms get tired quickly so let them reel in or watch the float to keep the day ticking along.
Snacks and snack breaks can do wonders for young anglers! Plenty of tasty treats for a picnic will help revive a child’s energy level and can elongate a trip
Patience
With young children, it’s inevitable that things will go awry. Snags, tangles and wandering off to throw sticks are all part of the process. Instead of showing frustration, sort things out and teach them mistakes are a part of learning.
Keep a rod ready to go, so you can swap straight over. Every kid is different – keep the pressure off, enjoy the day out with them in nature and you’ve got the chance of hooking a lifelong fishing partner.