Fishing Tips from a non-expert
Ok. This is not a blog post I envisioned myself writing - but thought it is valuable knowledge to any of you Moms out there who have children with a desire to go fishing. Now I admit that I was raised with a very limited amount of fishing exposure - however my grandpa did have a pond in his backyard and he taught me a thing or two about it. Naturally I forgot most of it as an adult but luckily my brother-in-law has helped refresh my memory and skills over the years. So I compiled a list of things to bring to your fishing trip and a list of helpful tips! To reiterate: I am not an avid fisher - but if you are looking to go for your first time and don’t have a clue what to do, here is a good place to start!
Tips:
1. Patience. If your kids need a good lesson on patience, go fishing. (or maybe this is not an activity for them) Either way - you will need it when the fishing line gets tangled. And its almost a guarantee it will get tangled when fishing with kids.
2. Keep it simple - its your first time and no need to purchase an elaborate tackle box or expensive pole. Using kid-friendly equipment will make for a more enjoyable time!
3. Hooks: Small barbless hooks are a good option and typically come with a beginner tackle box. These hooks are easier to remove.
4. You could buy bait online, but if your goal is to catch some sunnies- bread or cheese you have around the house will do the trick.
5. Pick a spot where they wont cast their line into trees or plant life.
6. When taking the hook out of the fish, try to keep it in the water while doing so. If you need to take the fish out of the water, wet your hands and avoid touching the gills. Be careful of the spines - they can hurt!
7. Familiarize yourself with the rules in the area you are fishing and set rules and expectations for your kids!
Things to Pack:
1. Fishing Rod, bait and tackle box. There are two types of rods to choose from. The one shown in the picture on the right is a spin cast reel and while its easier for the smaller kids and often cheaper - I’ve purchased about 3 of them because once the fishing wire gets tangled (and it will) its basically useless. My older son learned to use a spinning combo reel when he was 6 and its much easier to fix when the line gets tangled but it is a bit trickier to learn to cast. Pick your poison.
2. Pliers to assist get the fish off if necessary. I just use my needle nose pliers to help if the hook gets stuck but if you are looking to spend a little money you can get these fancy fishing pliers.
3. Snacks and drinks, mainly to keep your kids occupied when the fish aren’t biting but keeping them hydrated is important too! (I typically bring along a designated ‘trash bag’ so the kids have spot to put their trash)
4. Sun protection in the form of a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, whatever your fishing spot might require.
5. First aid kit! We have yet to need anything more than a bandaid but better safe than sorry!
Our two favorite spots to fish in Delaware:
Carousel Park: 3700 Limestone Rd, Wilmington, DE 19808
Middle Run Natural Area: Possum Hollow Rd, Newark, DE 19711
Here is a map of White Clay Creek State Park for you to find a spot of your own!
One last tip: Before you go, remember why you are going - which is most likely to create lasting memories with your kids (at least that’s my reason). I always go back to that thought when I want to snap at them for coming to me with ANOTHER tangled line or if they are getting impatient or too competitive about how many fish they caught. There are so many teachable moments when it comes to fishing and if I keep in mind why we are there - it helps me to respond intentionally and make the most out of each opportunity!
This is life in my lane, I hope it helps you navigate yours!
-Christy Smith