Fishing is a great opportunity to introduce your children to the outdoors. Most children end up enjoying the sport, creating a lifelong hobby and passion. Since fishing does require a lot of patience, it is important to provide the tools for a successful catch so that your kids can have the most fulfilling experience possible. Here are seven tips for creating a great fishing experience for your kids:
1. Provide Kid-Friendly Equipment
The right fishing gear for you isn’t necessarily the right gear for your kids. Set them up for success by providing easy-to-use equipment. Spincasting combos are a great option for kids. If a spincasting combo isn’t available, a spinning combo is your next best option. Cane poles also provide a nice, simple option and can be a better fit for younger kids.
2. Focus on Easier Fish
There are various fish species based on your location. Some species will always be easier to catch than others. Focus on catching aggressive fish so that your kids will have a better chance of success. We recommend focusing on catfish and panfish– they’re common in most warm waters and are easier targets for young anglers. If you’re fishing in colder waters, try to locate large mountain whitefish or farmed rainbow trout. To learn about all the great fishing opportunities offered by Colorado Outdoor Sports and the species we offer, visit our website page on Fishing Membership.
3. Use the Right Bait
While you may be better acquainted with artificial lures, real lures are preferable for young anglers. Try using mealworms, wax worms, red wigglers, leeches, crickets, and nightcrawlers for a better chance of catching trout, panfish, and catfish. Colorado Outdoor Sports is primarily a catch and release program only.
4. Find a Good Location
Fish actually like to cluster in small areas and aren’t evenly distributed throughout the water. Try finding areas near submerged trees, rocks, or docks. These tend to be good hiding places that attract clusters of fish. Long points are another good option for finding larger fish populations.
5. Always Follow Local Fishing Laws
Make sure you have a fishing license before taking your kids out. Set the right example for your children by avoiding citations and breaking local fishing laws. Colorado law doesn’t require children under 16 to have a fishing license, always check local laws to make sure what members of your family require one.
6. Prioritize Comfort
Be cognizant of weather conditions and prepare properly. The better prepared your kids are, the more fish they’ll catch. Comfort levels are important for children so that they can focus on having a good experience. Bring a lot of sunscreen, bug spray, and snacks. Early morning and late evening are usually the best time to fish since fish are more active and the weather conditions are milder.
7. Fish with Your Kids
Since you have more experience fishing, you’ll likely catch more fish than your kids. To make sure they’re enjoying themselves, try handing over your rod when you’ve got a fish on your line. This will give them a sense of accomplishment and help create lasting memories.
Focus on making the experience fun for your kids! Even if they don’t catch anything, the little things that make up the day can foster their love for fishing. Spending time together outside can really create a lasting appreciation.
For more information regarding how to create a fun fishing experience for your kids, Colorado Outdoor Sports Owner, Win Ewbank would love to talk to you, please contact us at 720-300-9400!
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