Get Hooked
Encompassing the peacefulness of the countryside and its total harmony with nature it’s easy to see why so many people get hooked on fishing. For many, including children, it provides the perfect escape route away from the daily grind towards a mini waterside haven of tranquillity. And, for a child, the excitement of the first bite from a fish can leave such a lasting impression the foundations of a lifelong passion begin to settle in. There’s plenty of evidence to mark the popularity of the sport, as fishing continues to reign as one of the most popular and plentiful sports in the UK. The question is – what bait will you cast out to encourage your child to take up this wonderfully calming hobby?
What age should I take my child fishing?
Of course, all children are different and have varied interests. Some youngsters are more wary of the water and may need more coaxing but on the whole, children young enough to belong to Nursery and Reception classes, can grab a net and spend a short while looking for crabs, tadpoles, or other equally slippery water creatures in the rock pools. As for grasping the basic skills of fishing in the traditional sense, children even as young as six are able, with parental or adult help, to have a go. As with most activities, children aged eight and up are generally very capable of trying their hand at fishing.
When is the best time to go fishing?
The idea is to provide a teaser session, so although winter fishing is considered to be ‘first class’ by many, it won’t be the best time to take your youngster out in cold, icy conditions. It’s best to wait until spring. Sea fishing provides superb conditions from May to October, whilst the prime freshwater season runs from mid June through to October. Taking place waterside on a warm summer’s evening will be more comfortable for a child. And just as they start to get the first few catches, dusk will enforce a natural end to the day and it will be time to go home. Chances are, they will have got hooked and will be biting at the bit to try again another time. Another good time to start, especially if you want to avoid the early evening midges, is during a sunny afternoon, but the same rule applies. Leave after a few catches.
Where should we fish?
Don’t assume you can fish by any river or stream – you may need a permit! The Environment Agency regulates fishing in the UK, so it’s wise to grab a guide from them. These fishing guides have been created for each part of the country, and they contain lists of lakes, ponds, reservoirs and fisheries where fishing is permitted. Also included are details of accepted fishing methods, species of fish likely to be caught in each venue plus more information of available permits. Remember, children under the age of twelve don’t need a rod licence, but adults need one.
You can download the guide local to you from the Environment Agency website at www.environment-agency.gov.uk. Whilst there, you can search online for a local fishery too. Simply type in your postcode on the website to get a list of local venues. Also, look out for information about free child ‘taster days’ that often take place during the summer, supported by some regional branches of the Environment Agency. Another good place to start fishing is with a tutor at a local Angling Club.
What will my child need?
It’s wise not to fork out on any expensive tackle until your child has been a few times. But a good beginners fishing tool would be a 3 or 4 metre Whip, which has no reel to master and is elasticated which makes it easier to catch fish. These usually retail at around £6 to £15. You’ll also need a float, some hooks, a landing net to drop the bigger fish into, plus a comfortable chair. A clear sided container, ideally with a white bottom, will help your child inspect his or her wriggly catch. And a children’s book on fish will help identify the species. As far as bait is concerned, the best type are maggots, bits of bread, sweet corn and luncheon meat – enough to tempt any stray fish!
The First Trip
Make the first experience a mini adventure. In addition to your fishing equipment, pack a small picnic, some warm rugs, grab some binoculars to spot other wildlife and a camera to capture the first catch. Bring some entertainment in the form of books and toys to pass the time in case it is slow going. Check the forecast for weather and head to a permitted spot where fish are plentiful and a catch is almost guaranteed. Then simply relax and enjoy the quality time together.
Tips for Parents
Always be aware of the potential dangers of water.
Remember hooks are very sharp so it’s best to make your child aware they can easily catch someone’s eye!
Always supervise your child near the water.
Provide instructions (or an instructor) in advance.
Wrap your child up warmly and provide a lifejacket for when they are close to the water’s edge.
Go somewhere where there is plenty of fish. Children don’t care what they catch, as long as they catch something.
Remember no two days are the same, so if the fish aren’t biting one day, you can always come back and try again another day.
Be ‘sun smart’ on hot sunny days – ensure you drink plenty of water and use suntan lotion.
by Kirsty Woodgate |
