Introducing Kids to Fishing

As we leave behind the gloomy Autumn and Winter months, the rising temperatures offer so many more opportunities in terms of activities, hobbies and entertainment. As the sun’s beams creep their way through our blackout curtains, we get more and more tempted to get off Netflix and actually do something out in the real world. In particular, the arrival of Spring and Summer is the perfect opportunity to plan some fun outings with your family.

Connect with your kids

It’s becoming tougher and tougher to engage today’s youth with the joys of the outdoors. With advancing technology bringing more and more forms of digital diversions, it’s a wonder not all children have a painful vitamin D deficiency, with all the time they spend staring at screens, with their youthful dexterity getting totally wasted on keyboards, touch screens and gaming consoles. 

Thankfully, there is one activity that has stood the test of time and is almost entirely immune to technological encroachment – good old fishing. While much of it can now be learned through online tutorials and the quality of equipment, such as mullet fishing nets, carp fishing gear and fishing accessories, has certainly come a long way, there is no quick digital alternative to actually standing by that water, casting the line, patiently waiting, watching and eventually getting that catch.

Go Gadget Free

When it comes to getting the whole family involved in an activity, tradition is a powerful element in having everyone come together. Fishing is not only a fantastic way to bond with your kids, but teaching it from a young age and turning fishing into a frequent activity or a special annual trip, can cement it as an integral part of family life and keep the activity going throughout generations. 

When you’re competing with all sorts of gadgets and online amusements, it can be tough to get your little ones excited about something that can be viewed as old school. With the new generation of instant gratification, an activity like fishing also takes a lot of focus and patience – which isn’t necessarily what the average child is known for.

Make it fun

But there are plenty of ways to get them hooked – pardon the pun. Making a holiday of it is a great start. A change of scenery is always exciting and nothing like a road trip to lift the spirits and coax out some bonding from even the most taciturn of teens.

Since variety is the spice of life, it’s also good to have some additional options for entertainment, so they don’t feel like it’s fishing or nothing. Adding a bit of competition is also a great motivator, especially when it comes to siblings. Learning and naming the different breeds of fish, who can catch the most in a day or a live bait lucky dip – for the very brave! 

Beneficial related skills

Fishing is a very organic skill, which is definitely becoming lacking in younger generations. You can supplement teaching your kids about fishing with additional useful skills, like scout training, survival and foraging, not to mention environmental awareness. As mentioned previously, fishing also requires a lot of specialised gear and mastering all the different tools can be a fun learning activity as well. I also found an amazing online chandlery for sailing gear, so give that a look.

So whether your kids get actively involved or just become avid spectators, an intro to fishing can be the start of a fun family foray into a long-lasting habit that’ll be both enriching, social and healthy.

Last Updated on June 26, 2023 by Lucy Clarke