Fishing with Kids
The week of July 3-11, 2010 is the 11th annual National Fishing Week in Canada. All campers (and others) are encouraged to get outside and try sportsfishing. Fishing is one of Canada’s favourite pastimes and one of our heritage sports. If you live in Ontario you can enjoy a full week of “licence-free fishing” as part of Ontario Family Fishing Week. This means you can fish without a permit, but you still need to follow the rules. So as the slogan says: “Just Go and Catch a Memory!”
You can download a free “how to” guide to fishing in Canada at www.catchfishing.com
Personally I am not a fisherwoman, but I know that is very popular among families who camp with us.
So here are some tips for fishing with kids:
1. Practice casting before actual fishing trip. Do not use a real hook!
2. Use simple bait such as worms or bread, and a bobber 9float) or sinker, so that kids can play while waiting for a fish to bait.
3. Fish where there is plenty of fish so that catching something is easy
4. Let kids reel in a fish, even if it’s yours. It is the best part.
5. Release small fish. Explain to your kids that you will only keep the fish big enough to eat. Smaller fish still needs to grow.
6. Make your children wear their PDF’s (Personal Flotation Device) near the water for safety
7. Make it into a fun outing with a picnic and talk about nature and animals.
P.S. US National Fishing and Boating Week was on June 6-14.
