Take a Kid Fishing!

Make it a really big deal and create future anglers who enjoy the sport as much as you do.

Start off by making your trip a really big deal. If you are going on a weekend start talking about it on Wednesday or Thursday to get them pumped up! Here are some more great tips for making this a trip to remember. 

1. CHECK THE WEATHER

The last thing you want is to take your kids out in hurricane winds and heavy rain, so make sure you have good weather so your kids will enjoy their time outdoors.

2. TAKE IT SLOW

You don't want to travel five or six hours away from home. Find a close location so they are not sitting in the car for too long. When you arrive, have a look around at Mother Nature - birds, snakes, grasshoppers anything that piques their interest before getting out the rods and sitting on the bank or in a boat.

3. ENCOURAGE YOUR KIDS

When your kids are fishing, cheer them on and let them know what a great cast they are making! Take your time to teach them how to handle a fishing rod, worms and lures etc. It is very important that kids are taught in a simple, fun manner.

4. WHEN LANDING A FISH

Show your kids how to properly handle a fish that you are going to release and I would encourage you to teach them to catch and release for their future. There is nothing wrong with keeping a few for lunch but keep the smaller ones.

5. SHORE LUNCH

Kids love to see things in nature and having a good old fashion shore lunch is very bonding with your kids. Teach them survival skills at an early age is an asset. And a great way to just get away from the rods and reels for a while to keep them wanting to get back to it.

6. PANFISH

Start out with panfish like bluegill, perch, and crappie where there are plenty and lots of action so you can keep the kids busy catching fish, this will keep them interested and not lose focus or get bored.

7. MAKE IT NOT JUST ABOUT FISHING!

Lastly, make the trip fun and not just all about fishing. You have to make it an outdoor experience that the kids will love and will want more in the future. After all, the time you spend with your kids is time you will never get back and that is the most important thing in the world.

About Ron James

Ron has been fishing for over 35 years. He started fishing when he was just a youngster with his father Bill James (God rest his soul). He moved onto tournament fishing as his passion grew. With numerous wins and top finishes, the next step had to be taken. He met Leo, and the unstoppable force of Fish TV "is the best thing that has happened.

Recommended Articles

Become a World-class Fishing Guide

Misconceptions, behind-the-scenes intel, and key tips from a professional guide.

Predicting Lake Thickness

When Will Ontario Lakes Freeze Over This Winter?

Eagle Lake Island Lodge

Your private island escape and off-the-grid adventures await.

Legend of the White worm

Learn to Fish for Bass With This Lure

A Walleye Fly-in Outpost

Fly-in to remote Wanzatika Lake with Hearst Air Service.

Manitoulin Island Fishing

Lake Huron offers a wide variety of freshwater species

Casting for Coasters

Fishing for Brook Trout at Bowman Island Lodge

Expanding Your Horizons

A longtime angler shares why casting around in new waters is good practice

Mattagami Lake's Perfect Family Fishing Destination

Green Wilderness Lodge offers the rare and perfect blend of relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere and incredible fishing.

Fishing the Upper Ganaraska

One of Ontario’s most popular fishing destinations for trout and salmon anglers.

Big Lake Abitibi

Ice Fishing With Dunn Right Outfitters

5 Lakes, 4 Seasons, and Plenty of Fish

Fish TV selects their favourite lakes in Ontario.

Rigged for Ice Fishing Success

How to start planning your next ice fishing adventure in Ontario.

The Legendary Brook Trout of the Albany

Experience a once in a lifetime remote fishing adventure.

How Smallmouth Bass Came to Ontario

Ontario has Smallmouth Bass lakes from the far reaches of the north and south.

In Search of Brookies

Fly Fishing at Esnagami Wilderness Lodge

Off-Grid Ontario Fishing Adventures

Escape to one of these 4 remote Ontario outposts this summer

Sandy Beach Cottages on Lake Clear

Pet-friendly cottages and everything you need to have a worry-free holiday!

Fantasy Fishing For Walleye

Catching up to 100 walleye a day at Clark's Resort & Outpost Air Service.

Cast Away the Ordinary

Your Ultimate Fly-In, Boat-In, or Drive-In Fishing Adventure in Superior Country.