How to Share Fishing With Your Child

Introduction: Taking your children on a fun day of fishing does not require that a parent have the skills of a professional outdoors man, just good skills as a parent. The opportunity to take your child in a one-on-one setting and impart the basic knowledge of a great activity that can be enjoyed for a lifetime is special, and is certain to be remembered for years to come, by both child and parent.

However, much like any other learning situation there are certain components that need to be present to maximize enjoyment and a full understanding of the endeavor. The virtues of the parent, such as patience, resilience and the ability to look at fishing through a child's eye are important in the amount of knowledge a child absorbs, and how well the activity is perceived.

Step 1: To begin to share the joys of fishing with your child, spend a little bit of money and get them their own fishing gear. The bare necessities will do fine, just a rod and reel, a tackle box, and a few minor odds and ends. The whole of the purchases should be less than $50 in total, and by doing this you will immediately give your child a sense of ownership and belonging in the sport.

Step 2: Next, go over the basics of fishing briefly, without attempting to divulge too much information too quickly. Take your child out in the yard and teach them how the rod and reel works, and how to cast and retrieve the line. Next, teach your child how to tie on a hook, sinker or bobber, and explain the process in detail, and why each is necessary for fishing success. It is very important to cover safety rules around water, and to teach children to move slowly and deliberately to avoid tripping accidents.

Step 3: On the day of your first fishing excursion with your child, make a entire day of it and you will assure that a memory will be made for you both as well. Choose a fishing location that will result in catching some fish, no matter how small they might be. Remember, to a child it is not the size of the fish that will matter, but the excitement of seeing the rod tip move and reeling in a fish. Between casting and reeling, take the time to teach your child of the importance of being a good guardian of nature in general, and to have a respect for the natural world.

Step 4: Fishing can provide a splendid opportunity for a parent and child to bond in a setting that is far removed from distractions, and can really give a smart parent the chance to learn who their children are as people. Best of all, fishing can present an avenue of private interaction that can be enjoyed for a lifetime.

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