How to Make Fishing More Enjoyable for Kids

Parents who are avid anglers probably can’t wait to take their little ones to Newport’s waters. It’s a fantastic bonding experience that you and your kid will remember for years to come. Moreover, you get to pass on life skills and a fun sport for the next generation to use and enjoy.

But just like introducing your kid to any other sport or teaching them skills, there will be a few challenges. Many times, your little one may give up or seem disinterested after a few sessions in the water. To avoid this from happening, read on as we share tips on how to make fishing more enjoyable for kids.

 

How to Make Fishing More Enjoyable for Kids

There is a special kind of joy as you take your little one to the waters and share your passion for fishing. But even if it’s a fun sport that your child is also excited about, they may end up being bored or distracted from it over time. It’s normal!

However, you can avoid total disinterest from happening by using some of these tactics:

 

Focus on Your Child

This is one of the most crucial tips you must remember. Your fishing trip with your child isn’t solely about catching your personal best that day. It’s about teaching your child to fish and keeping it fun for them.

If your upcoming fishing trip will be one of the first times for your little one, put all the attention towards making it as fun as possible for your kid with the next tips. Make sure you focus on your little one rather than on your rod, or you might end up with a bored child ready to go home after only watching you reel in catch after catch!

 

Let Them Choose

We understand the trouble of choosing the perfect fishing spot. You might even have to change locations as you go before you find the perfect spot by the river or lake.

Use this as an opportunity for your child to learn about choosing fishing locations. When you are in the general location, ask your child to choose the specific spots you’ll fish in that day. This will have them feel like they are in charge of a fun adventure! Just make sure you are teaching them along the way so they know more about choosing a nice fishing spot later on!

You can also use this tactic in other settings, such as allowing them to choose their lure. As you set up the fishing gear, ask them what lure they should use and have them try to hook it in (with supervision, of course). This can make their experience all the more exciting.

If you plan to purchase a tackle box and lures for your child, have them choose them as well, so the more excited they will be during the purchasing process and when it’s time to fish.

 

Teach Them Different Species

It’s important and fun to teach your child about the different fish species, like halibut. Doing so will give them a better knowledge base and understanding of the food chain and different marine wildlife. You can introduce them to different fish species either while fishing or outside the waters, such as by taking them to the aquarium.

 

Buy a Fishing Rod for Them

Giving your child their first fishing rod will be an extremely exciting time, as it has them believe they are ready for an adventure of a lifetime. There are a ton of fishing feat options available for children, depending on their age.

• For children 4-8 years old, it’s best to purchase a small and light fishing rod with a spin cast reel for ease of learning and use.
• For children 9-14 years old, opt for something bigger that can perform longer casts and catch bigger fish. You may also want to consider purchasing lures and a tackle box made for them.
• For teenagers over 14 years old, it’s high time for the regular-sized fishing rod and reel set. If they like pike fishing, opt for a 7-ft rod with a 6.3:1 gear ratio reel.

 

Make It a Game

Children do not have as much patience as adults do, so it’s best to entertain them with simple games as you are waiting for a bite. This will keep them from getting bored, allowing you to stay out for longer without anyone crying to go home.

Some game ideas include playing “I Spy” or who catches the smallest or biggest fish. Keep their mind busy!

Take Frequent Breaks

Make your day, even more, fun and memorable for you and your kids by taking the time to relax. Don’t always make every second a teaching moment, which can frustrate or bore some kids. Instead, make new memories and focus more on having fun amid the beautiful weather and natural habitat.

One thing you can do is to have a picnic by the waters, so you can both eat to regain energy to go back to fishing. Besides having a nice picnic lunch, make sure to take frequent breaks to avoid an information overload for your little one. You can do this by exploring the surroundings, either scouting for a new fishing spot or doing other outdoor activities that will keep the experience enjoyable.

 

Wrapping It Up

When learning how to make fishing more enjoyable for kids, it all boils down to having a more playful approach. Remember, children tend to get bored easily and it will take a lot of patience on your end to teach them fishing. Don’t worry, as all the time and effort will be worth it once you start seeing your little one enjoy the sport more and more.

Hopefully, our guide on how to make fishing more enjoyable for kids helped you out! If you’re ready to take your little one out on the ultimate fishing trip, contact us now to book a fishing charter around Newport.