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A Day on the Lake and Tips for Fishing with the Kids

My husband is an avid fisherman.  Any conversation with him eventually circles around to  fishing.  He'll share stories of fishing with his dad, like waking up early, packing sandwiches for a long day at the lake and falling asleep on the return trip home.  
Nothing's changed.  That little boy grew into a man who loves going fishing Spring, Summer, Winter and Fall.  He's gone fishing in lakes, ponds, streams and oceans. His love of fishing is undeniable and his knowledge of all things fishing is uncanny.
Each year hubby's job hosts a fishing derby for youth.  It's the one work day he looks forward to. The local pond is stocked with catfish and the kids spend the entire day on the lake fishing.  The kids are provided with rods, reels and bait.  For many of the kids, it's their first time fishing and there's nothing like the excitement of catching that first fish. 
Hubby is really patient and the epitome of the Chinese proverb "Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime."  He works with the kids to help them identify which bait to use to catch certain types of fish.

He knows fishing and was glad to offer tips for fishing with kids. 

Fishing is a lesson in patience and it's important to remind kids sometimes the fish bite and sometimes they don't.

Make sure you have the proper gear: a pole and fishing line are essentials but if you're fishing on a boat, you'll need a life jacket.  A floating bobber helps little ones see if they're getting a nibble but again patience is key in reeling in the big one.

Find a great spot.  Some fish like to hide in grassy areas; others like deep dark spots.  

Lastly, choose your bait and learn to bait your pole. 
Live bait like minnows, worms and shrimp can be awkward for younger kids and adults may have to assist with baiting the line.

Artificial bait like the ones found in the Mystery Tackle Box are colorful and kids will have fun learning which types of bait to use to catch different types of fish.  Mystery Tackle Box is a subscription box for the person who loves to fish. Each month subscribers receive a box filled with special items, tips and more designed to catch specific fish. So if ice fishing is your thing, you can select a box full of tips and supplies for that season.  The box is pretty neat too as it doubles as a tool for measuring the size of the fish you catch.  
So you've got your fishing pole, your line and your bait so now all you have to do is find the perfect spot and go catch 'em.
When's the last time you went fishing?  Did you fish in a lake, a pond, on a boat, on a dock? 

Comments

Masshole Mommy said…
While we don't fish, we do spend lots of time at the lake when we are up at our condo in NH. We bring LOTS of water toys and rafts for the kids.
I have never been fishing. My husband used to fish with his Dad when he was a child and enjoyed it quite a bit.
candy said…
Watching a child catch a fish for the first time is wonderful. The excitement and happiness they get is amazing and makes me feel good.
AiringMyLaundry said…
This would be fun! I don't think I've ever taken the kids fishing. I know I haven't done it in years. We might have to do it soon!
Jeanette said…
We have not fished a lot but we have my kiddo has loved it! This is a good reminder to take them away from technology and go back into the woods and enjoy what was created for us to enjoy.
Heather Jones said…
My husband is just getting into fishing at the age of 48! He really started to love it last summer and has already planned some trips for the summer ahead. I didn't have a fishing license last year so I was the resident baiter. I had to overcome my fear of touching worms and scaly slimy fish for the kids. I started to like it toward the end of the season. It's a great family thing to do.
Sarah Bailey said…
My Dad is a huge fisherman and I remember him taking me fishing when I was younger, many fond memories from it for sure, it was nice to do something with him.
Brandy Ellen said…
These are great tips for fishing with kids, I miss fishing. I used to go all of the time with my Dad when I was a little girl. Great fish there you have!
I have to admit that I love fishing too! I could sit there all day and be happy with just nibbles on my line. When I was younger, my dad would take me to a large lake in a canoe. Fond memories.
Pam said…
My son in law loves fishing. He wants to get my granddaughter into fishin when she's a little older too.
Debra Hawkins said…
My husband loves to fish! We have been meaning to take our kids fishing for years but haven't gotten around it it! We need to make time!
Dogvills said…
My husband and sons go fishing whenever there is an opportunity to do so. I usually tag along, but I stay on the sidelines, lounging with a good book in hand.
sandy n vyjay said…
Learnt a lot about fishing from the post.We do not fish but do understand the passion that so many people have for fishing.
Unknown said…
My hubs and son would love this. Looks like a fantastic place to fish!
Sara Welch said…
I have never been much of an angler. I would love to see my kids get into it.
chubskulit said…
I wish I could go fishing but I don't have a license. I used to fish with my Dad when I was still in Asia. Those are some big fish you guys caught.
Mellissa said…
This a really great tips. My son has been begging to go fishing. I guess I may have to go ahead and do it.
Ali Rost said…
What a wonderful event for kids. I have such fond memories of fishing with my best friend when we were kids. As long as I didn't have to bait the hook, all was well. We'd spend the better part of the afternoon in our favorite fishing hole talking about life. Just like your husband and your son, we made some great memories, that's for sure. x

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