By Randy Rice
Official Kids Mag
Hey kids! Fishing is a great outdoor activity. Here are some tips
for catching the big ones!
1. Get the fishy facts
Fishing can be frustrating if the fish aren't interested. Whether you
plan to fish from a boat, shore or a dock, scout out locations where
fish are plentiful. The local tackle shop is a great place to get some
help. Have an adult with you while you ask for pointers on where
to go, best baits to use, and information on fishing regulations and
fishing licenses.
2. Get organized
Organizing gear in advance. Help your adult pack: fishing gear,
snacks, drinks, water, sunscreen, bug repellant, rain jackets, hats,
first-aid kit, sunglasses.
3. Fish Safe
Safety comes first. Life jackets, while sometimes
uncomfortable, are a must when you go around water. Hooks
have barbs so should only be handled by adults.
4. Get a Grip
Learn how to grip the handle of the fishing rod and keep it
in front of you in a 9 to 11 o'clock position.
5. Cast Away
A sidearm cast, not an overhead, is better and safer.
• Look behind you first to make sure no one's in the way
• Bring the rod back and keep it above your waist
• Swing the rod forward while flicking the wrist and
releasing the line prior to the rod hitting the water
• End with rod
pointing at target
6. Relax and
Have Fun
One of the best
things about fishing is
how relaxing it can be.
And learning to fish takes
patience. It's not about how
many fish you catch. It's about having a good time with your friends
and family.
Fishing can feel slow going if the fish aren't biting. When you're
tired of casting, ask your adult if you can poke around the river
bank or lake shore. You can look for critters, collect rocks, and get
dirty. Playing with worms, launching leaf "boats" into the water, or
even just taking a break and going for a walk can be part of the fun
of fishing.
Jessica M. (from left) fishes Friday with her sons Samuel, 4, Matthew, 5,
and Jakob, 9, at Murphy Park in Springdale. (NWA Democrat-Gazette/
David Gottschalk)
LET'S GO
FISHING!
44 • MAY 2020 • Of f icialKidsMag.com
