For A Lifetime Of Memories,Teach Kids To Fish

(NAPS)—What memories will today’s kids have of their childhood? Will they only remember watching TV, playing video games or surfing the Internet? Many parents remember a more active, healthy childhood and want the same for their children. Building these memories starts with parents introducing their kids to activities the whole family can enjoy together. It’s easy to build great family memories through one of the most basic of American pastimes—fishing.

Teaching your kids to fish introduces them to an activity they’ll enjoy for the rest of their lives. Plus, being in the great outdoors helps instill in children a respect for nature and the world around them.

Even if you’ve never fished, it’s easy and fun to learn right along with your children. You’ll find everything you need at your local sporting goods store. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Start small. When adults say "fishing," kids immediately think "catching." Going after smaller fish usually helps your odds. Use small hooks and a bobber for more action and greater success.
• Go where the action is.
  Check with local bait and tackle stores to find well-stocked fishing locations that make excellent first-outing destinations.
• Get kids their own equipment. With their own gear, they’ll appreciate the experience all the more. You can find rod and reel combos for kids for around $15 at your local sporting goods store.
• Use live bait. Earthworms, crickets, minnows and other live bait are the most productive, and collecting them can be part of the fun. Teach your kids to fish and catch memories for a lifetime.
• Keep it short and sweet. Limit the time you’ll be on the water and leave while enthusiasm is high. If you end the day on a high note, it’s a good bet the kids will be hooked on coming back again.
• Focus on fun. Remember, there’s a world of difference between "taking the kids fishing" and the kids "going fishing with you." Concentrate on their experience and save your casts for another day.
• Brush up on the basics. If you haven’t been fishing in a while, the Internet is a great source of information. A public service Web site, takemefishing.org, is an excellent place to start.
• Let your kids be captain for the day. If you’re fishing from a boat, take time to teach them the basics of how the boat works, and maybe even teach them how to drive it. With these tips, a day of fishing can be a lifetime of fun.

Did You Know

It's easy to build great family memories through one of the most basic of American pastimes—fishing. Teaching your kids to fish introduces them to an activity the whole family can share together. Learn more at takemefishing.org.

Article courtesy of Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation