If you’re looking for the perfect way to unwind, spend time outdoors, or bond with your kids on holiday, fishing is the perfect activity. Whether it’s a day spent at the lake or an afternoon by the local river, fishing with kids can be an incredibly rewarding experience that brings people of all ages together. It provides hours of entertainment outdoors as a family as well as many other benefits. From developing life skills such as patience and problem solving to creating lasting memories together, fishing is sure to become one of your family’s favourite pastimes!
The benefits of fishing with kids
Our lives are busier than ever, so it’s no wonder that we rarely get an opportunity to stop and spend quality time as a family. If you are looking for an opportunity to relax, bond, and have fun with your kids, why not give fishing a try?
Fishing is a great activity for holidays with teenagers getting them away from their mobile phones and tablets and into a situation where they will communicate with you without it feeling forced. It is an easy way to bond as a family and can foster strong relationships between several generations as it provides an opportunity for family members of all ages to work together, teaching each other something new, and creating lifelong memories in the process.
Fishing is not only a hobby that helps to foster communication. It also teaches kids problem-solving skills, teamwork, patience, and focus. Another important life skill that your children will learn is perseverance. This can help them later in life as they realise that hard work and determination pay off. Fishing also relieves stress and forces parents and children to relax, which is so difficult in today’s busy world.
Best of all, the whole family is outside in the fresh air and moving, rather than sitting in front of a screen. It may not be a strenuous sport, but fishing with kids is an active pastime, and associating outdoor activities with fun in childhood, can lead to a healthy lifestyle later in life. There is also no better way to develop your children’s appreciation of nature than by letting them interact directly with their environment.
How to catch different types of fish
If you have little or no experience with fishing, you really need to do some reading up on the equipment needed and how to fish properly. Otherwise, there will be a few disappointed faces! To increase your success rate and ensure you catch a variety of fish to keep the kids interested, there are a few things you can do:
First of all, it is important to understand the behaviour and habits of each particular fish –what they eat, where they live, and when they’re active. This will help you determine which bait or lures work best for that species of fish.
Trout
When fishing for trout, a river fish, that is safe and legal to eat in the UK, it is important to use the right tackle and bait. Light spinning or fly-fishing gear with a small hook is ideal for trout, and natural baits such as worms or insects are usually successful. Small spinners or spoons can also be used, depending on the type of water you are in. For best results, look for areas with deeper pools or runs of cooler water. Trout tend to feed in the early morning and evening, so plan your trip accordingly. Try different depths and speeds to attract trout to your bait.
Bass
Bass fishing is very popular amongst serious anglers. Bass is usually found in the sea but can enter freshwater at certain times of the year. Places such as Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, and East Anglia as well as the coastlines of Hampshire and Sussex are perfect for bass fishing, but you need to check restrictions as bass has seen a significant decline in numbers over the last 10 or so years. When fishing for bass, it is important to use lures that imitate the natural prey of this species. Weedless spoons, crankbaits, and jigs are all popular choices when targeting bass. Plastics such as worms and grubs can also be effective. For best results, try to cast your bait near vegetation or structures in which bass may hide.
The use of a bobber can also help to keep your bait in the water for longer periods, increasing your chances of catching a fish. Try different depths and locations until you find an area that holds bass. It can take time and practice to become an effective bass angler, but with patience comes reward!
Catfish
When fishing for catfish, the largest freshwater fish in the UK, it is important to use bait that has a strong scent and flavour. Fish such as shad and crawdads are popular options, but many anglers also use chicken livers, hot dogs, or sunflower seeds to entice catfish. The bait should be placed on the bottom of the lake or river, as catfish tend to be bottom feeders. It can help to attach a weight to the line in order to keep the bait on the bottom. Use a longer rod and heavier line for catfish fishing, as they can grow quite large and require more strength when reeling them in!
Finding the perfect spot to fish
Finding the perfect spot to fish is an important part of any successful outing. If you’re uncertain of where to go, local bait and tackle shops are a great resource for tips on nearby fishing spots. In England, Wales and parts of Scotland, you may need to buy a rod fishing license to fish in a canal or river if you are 12 and over.
If you are planning to go on a fishing holiday, there are some great family-friendly fishing places in Devon, Fife, and Tenby amongst others. There are fisheries for a quieter experience ideal for solo activity holidays and larger fishing farms perfect to get the kids into fishing.
Essential gear for successful fishing
Having the right gear is essential for a successful day out fishing with kids. Make sure to have the right tackle, bait, and gear as well as plenty of snacks and water. Most anglers will need a rod and reel, hooks, line, lures or baits, weights, bobbers, landing nets and tackle boxes. A wading boot can also be helpful if you plan to fish in a stream. Depending on the weather, it might be a good idea to bring along an extra layer of clothing or a hat. A first aid kit is also important in case of any unexpected emergencies.
Safety tips for fishing
Fishing with kids can be an enjoyable and safe activity, but it is important to follow some basic safety rules, especially when out on the water:
- Make sure you dress appropriately for the weather.
- Ensure all family members wear a life jacket while fishing from a boat or other vessel.
- Avoid areas with strong currents or hazardous debris.
- Take plenty of sunscreen, snacks, and water.
- Wear polarized sunglasses to help spot potential hazards such as rocks or fallen trees.
Be sure to take a rest if you feel tired or become too cold.
Before you cast your net
To ensure you’re fully prepared for your family fishing adventure, do some research ahead of time to become familiar with local regulations and the types of fish in the area you are planning to visit. Whether you’re after sea or freshwater fish, having the right knowledge and equipment will help ensure your family has an enjoyable and successful fishing holiday or day out. Good luck!
