Fishing with your kids can be one of the most rewarding and memorable experiences on the water. Whether you’re on a boat, a dock, or the shoreline, it’s a chance to bond, teach life skills, and inspire a lifelong love for nature and the outdoors. But let’s be honest—taking kids fishing isn’t quite the same as heading out solo. A little planning and the right mindset can make all the difference.
Here are some helpful tips to make your fishing trips with kids fun, safe, and successful.
Keep it Simple
When fishing with kids, especially younger ones, simplicity is key. Choose a basic setup like a spin-casting rod and reel. Skip the complicated gear and expensive lures—kids are better off using a simple bobber, a hook, and live bait like worms or minnows.
Pro Tip: Target fish that are easy to catch and plentiful—like bluegill, sunfish, or perch. Success builds confidence and keeps kids excited.
Pick the Right Spot
You don’t need to go far offshore to have a great time. In fact, staying close to shore or a quiet cove is often best. Look for calm, accessible spots where fish are known to bite frequently.
Good kid-friendly fishing spots include:
- Public docks or piers
- Small ponds and lakes
- Shallow inlets near marinas
Bonus: If fishing from a boat, make sure it’s anchored securely or drifting gently to avoid sudden movement that could make kids uneasy.
Make Safety the Top Priority
Nothing ruins a trip faster than an injury or close call. Here’s how to keep everyone safe:
- Life jackets are non-negotiable for kids on or near the water.
- Teach your child how to cast safely—away from others.
- Use barbless hooks or crimp the barbs to reduce injury risk.
- Always carry a basic first-aid kit onboard.
Don’t forget: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are musts for sun protection, even on cloudy days.
Set Realistic Expectations
Let’s face it—kids may not have the patience to sit quietly for hours. Keep the trip short and sweet, especially the first few times out. Aim for an hour or two, and don’t be afraid to call it a day if attention fades or moods shift.
Remember: It’s not about catching the biggest fish—it’s about creating a fun and positive experience.
Make it Fun (Even If the Fish Aren’t Biting)
Have some backup entertainment ready in case the fish aren’t cooperating. Consider:
- Playing “I Spy” or spotting boats, birds, or wildlife
- Letting kids name the fish they catch (real or imaginary)
- Bringing a small snack picnic on board
You can also get kids involved in other activities like driving the boat (with supervision), learning to tie knots, or identifying different types of fish and bait.
Let Them Get Hands-On
Kids love to feel like part of the action. Encourage them to bait the hook (if they’re ready), cast their line, and reel in the catch. Praise every effort—whether or not a fish is caught.
Bonus Tip: Bring a bucket or live well and let them observe the fish before releasing it. It turns fishing into a mini science lesson!
Be Prepared for Messes
Fishing isn’t a clean sport, especially with little ones. Embrace the mess!
- Bring extra clothes, towels, and baby wipes
- Have a trash bag handy for bait containers, wrappers, or used line
- If you plan to keep fish, store them properly and explain the process to your kids in a respectful, age-appropriate way
Capture the Memories
Don’t forget your camera or smartphone! Take photos of the day—your child holding their fish, making a goofy face, or helping with the gear. These memories will be treasured for years.
Bonus: Let your child help pick their favorite picture to print or share with friends and family.
Be Patient and Positive
Your attitude sets the tone for the whole trip. If a line gets tangled or a fish gets away, laugh it off and turn it into a teaching moment. A little encouragement goes a long way toward building your child’s confidence and love for the sport.
End on a High Note
Wrap up the outing before boredom sets in. Leave them wanting more, not counting the minutes until it’s over. Celebrate with a treat on the way home—a milkshake, a stop for ice cream, or even a simple “great job today!” goes a long way.
Final Cast
Fishing with kids isn’t about landing the trophy fish—it’s about building a bond, sharing laughs, and teaching them the value of patience, respect for nature, and outdoor fun. With these tips, you’ll create more than a good day on the water—you’ll create memories that last a lifetime.
Tight lines and happy boating!
