COLUMBUS, OH Parents and guardians looking to teach their kids how to be successful anglers might want to consider the following tips, provided by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife.
Keep it simple. Take into consideration the childs skill level. Is this their very first adventure into the fun world of fishing or have they cast a line before? If this is the first time, shore fishing is recommended.
Kids like to catch fish. The size of fish doesnt matter to kids, but catching fish does. Choose a pond, lake or stream where they will easily be able to catch a few fish. To find a fishing hole near you, check the weekly Fish Ohio report, or get insider tips by going online to the ODNR Division of Wildlife Web site at Ohiodnr.com For a Lake Erie fishing report, call 1-888-HOOKFISH.
Use simple tackle. Buy a good spin-cast rod and reel combination for kids to use; most cost between $15-$30. A spin-cast reel is easy to use and after a few practice casts kids usually have mastered it.
Always bring a camera. Children love to show off their big catch photos to others. You may even consider giving them a disposable camera of their own and letting them capture the days events on film.
Keep the trip funand short. Let the child have a good time, even if it means putting the fishing rod down and trying to catch tadpoles by hand. Take time out to explore and enjoy the time together. Remember, its not your day, its theirs.
Be patient. Plan on spending your time untangling lines, baiting hooks, landing fish and taking pictures of big smiles and wiggling fish. And dont plan to fish yourself. By concentrating all your attention on your young angler, youll likely be developing a fishing buddy for a lifetime.
For Further Information Contact:
Vicki Mountz, ODNR Division of Wildlife
(614) 265-6393
-or-
Andy Ware, ODNR Media Relations
(614) 265-6882