Getting kids involved in fishing and the outdoors with activities like hiking, biking and rafting requires an introduction. The challenge of convincing kids that there’s something far more interesting out there than their cell phones or video games is real, but instilling a love of the outdoors early on can set them up for a lifetime of appreciating what it offers.
Here’s a few tips on how to get kids involved in fishing and the outdoors in a way that is engaging and successful.
Become a role model
Activities like fishing usually require an introduction from someone who knows how to do it. Take a beginner’s approach to showing kids the basics. Be the role model kids can look up to as they learn to appreciate the outdoors and point out the elements that inspire you like the birds and trees or the way the seasons change the landscape from winter through the fall months.
Make it fun
There’s no chance of getting kids to ever fish again or opt for an outdoors activity unless it’s fun. When introducing kids to fishing and new outdoor skills it’s essential that it is enjoyable. This means selecting a location with easy access from a dock or platform and using simple tactics like fishing with a bobber.
Prep for success
Research your local stocked ponds to find ones that are described as kid or family friendly. Many municipalities have urban fishing ponds, and some that only allow kids to fish. Finding a location that gives you the best chance for catching fish is important. Once kids catch that first fish, they are almost always hooked and want to do it again.
Involve kids in the planning
Getting kids involved in the planning and research makes them more engaged in the process. This can be as simple as tasking them to plan the snacks or asking them to help you locate the fishing pond on a map. This engagement builds interest and ownership in the activity.
If you want to read some more tips from Anietra Hamper for getting kids involved in fishing and the outdoors, visit her website.
Anietra Hamper is an award-winning outdoor journalist, author, speaker and lifelong angler who specializes in outdoor adventure and fishing for some of the largest species around the world. Having spent a career as a top-rated television news anchor and investigative reporter, Anietra brings credibility to the stories she covers with her "boots-on-the-ground" journalistic approach. Anietra is based in Gahanna, Ohio. Visit Anietra’s website at http://www.threewordpress.com/. View all posts by Anietra Hamper
