The big smile on the face of this boy—Tucker Bina of Grand Forks, North Dakota—says it all. By following
a few simple guidelines, you can help make every child’s fishing trip one they will remember for a long time.
Take a Kid Fishing!
Story and photo by Zac Bernier
No stress, no screens, just smiles—take a kid fishing and make memories that last a lifetime.
Fishing is a great form of self-care that allows us to embrace some solitude and tranquility. However, it’s important to remember that children also experience stress and can benefit from time spent outdoors, away from the constant stimulation of screens and technology. Introducing a child to fishing not only provides them with a refreshing break, but also creates lasting memories. Below are a few considerations to ensure a fun experience for your young angler.
Present each fishing trip as an adventure. Show engaging photos or videos of other kids catching fish to spark some enthusiasm. Your excitement will be contagious, so make sure to build anticipation.
Preparation is essential for success. Equip yourself with the proper gear, tackle, bait, snacks, drinks and perhaps some alternative entertainment for slower moments, like a radio or maybe binoculars for viewing nature and wildlife. As Benjamin Franklin said, “By failing to prepare, you’re preparing to fail.”
Bring along a friend or family member of a similar age. This is a sure-fire way to enhance the experience. A bit of friendly competition or shared excitement can help maintain their interest and enthusiasm throughout the trip.
Safety should always come first. This is especially true if you are responsible for someone else’s child. Ensure you have properly fitting life jackets, a first aid kit and any appropriate weather gear. Before setting off, take some time to go over some basic safety guidelines and ground rules.
Celebrate the small victories. This might be something as simple as making a good cast, baiting a hook or catching a small fish. While these moments may seem minor to you, they can be significant to the child.
Remember, mistakes are part of the learning process. If a youngster loses a fish or mess something up, allow them some time to process the disappointment before offering constructive feedback. A patient and supportive approach will help to maintain their confidence and keep the experience enjoyable.
Get them involved in the decision making. Let them choose which bait to use, which rod, where to cast or how long to stay in one area. This will make them feel more engaged and invested in the whole process.
Capture the moments. Take plenty of photos and videos to preserve the memories, but don’t let documenting the day take away from being present. Consider printing some physical copies. You can put one on the fridge, give one to the grandparents or add it to a keepsake box so the kids can look back at it when they are older, just like many of us do. Also, sharing a few photos on social media can boost their excitement, motivating them to return for another fishing adventure.
And, finally, don’t forget to take a bathroom break before you leave! That’s a simple yet crucial tip.
Taking a kid fishing might seem like extra work and it won’t provide the quiet time you typically enjoy. However, as we all know, kids don’t stay young very long. Take every opportunity to share conversations, laughter and experiences that will be remembered for a lifetime. You’ll be glad you did.
(Zac Bernier is a USCG Captain, tournament fisherman and a catfish guide on the Red River of the North)
