The first thing to consider is the safety of your child. Consider picking fishing spots without bank drop-offs, rocky shores, or anywhere that could be hazardous; at least on the first couple outings. Once the child feels confident and shows a desire to practice safe rules when around the water, you can slowly ease him or her into more advanced fishing locations. If fishing from a boat just be sure to tightly fit their life jacket and assign them a spot to fish. This will help avoid any frustration of tripping over them and keep them out of the way of other hooks from casting lines. I know not all children are always cooperative; especially young children, so it is also a good practice to pack plenty of snacks and alternative entertainment like coloring books or small toys.

I have found providing them with their own gear will help the child build a desire to go fishing more often. Start them with a modest, light weight tackle box and a push button reel. The tackle box can hold the essential equipment like bobbers, sinkers, hooks, and a stringer. The push button reel will allow them time to learn the motion and precision of casting with less chance of line tangles. It will also help them gain a since of pride and responsibility.

Children learn from watching, so lead by example and always try to practice safe angling. This is also a good time to teach children to respect nature. It is wise to emphasize the importance of keeping our resources clean and not to litter or disrupt nature in any way. If we all teach our children to respect the land and water today, it will still be safe for them all tomorrow.

Children learn and absorb more at a younger age, so teaching them the right things to do from the start will give both parent and child many happy fishing trips in the future. The first few times a child fishes it is best to go after species that are easier to catch. This will allow a lot of practice hooking and reeling in and keep them from becoming bored to quickly. The fish I found to work the best for this are pan fish such as blue gills, perch, and crappie. It will allow them to practice baiting the hook, setting the hook, fighting the fish, landing the fish, removing the hook and finally releasing the fish. All of this can be guided by the parent the first few trips until the child is comfortable trying them on his or her own. Knot tying is a little more difficult and most children will let you know when they are ready to give it a try.

If keeping the fish, it will depend on the individual child if they would like to participate in the cleaning of the fish. Some children may shy away from this part, so it is best to not force the issue as this may actually discourage them. Just remember that it is about building life long memories for both of you so try your best to keep it a positive experience.

Good luck and enjoy making some lasting memories, because one day they may be out fishing you and you will be able to say that you taught them everything they know!