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Teaching Your Kids to Fish: Information, Resources and Techniques

Did you know that people first began fishing over 40,000 years ago? They did not have fishing poles like we are used to seeing today; instead they often used their hands or nets to ensure that they would have the ability to catch more than one at a time. This was because our ancestors needed fish to survive. They did not fish for fun; they fished in order to eat. As time went on, people found different methods of catching fish and learned that there are ways for a fisherman to catch a specific type of fish depending on the bait, location and type of equipment used. This made fishing more structured and more enjoyable because people could try to catch a certain fish of their choosing. With changes in technology, there were even further advancements in fishing. When guns were invented, it became easier and safer to hunt for larger animals from afar. Thus, many hunters switched their focus. These days most people fish out of a love for the sport and not for necessity of the food.

Types of Fishing

There are many different types of fishing, including fresh water fishing, fly fishing, deep sea fishing and ice fishing. Fresh water fishing is done in lakes and rivers with no salt. Deep sea fishing, which is also commonly known as sport or big game fishing, is a type of fishing in which the fishermen attempt to catch oceanic species such as sharks, swordfish and tuna. Another type of fishing is fly fishing in which anglers use an artificial fly or ‘lure’ to provoke the fish to strike. Not only does this form of fishing require specialized equipment, it also requires a specific form of casting that greatly differs from traditional casting techniques. For those who brave the outdoors in the winter months, there is also the popular sport of ice fishing where the angler uses either lines and fish hooks or a spear to catch fish through an opening in a frozen body of water.

  • Fresh Water Fishing
    Learn about freshwater fishing and what types of fish can be caught.
  • Deep Sea Fishing
    Learn about deep sea fishing, why it’s fun and where to go.
  • Fly Fishing for Carp
    While this guide focuses on carp, it’s really helpful for fly fishing for all species.
  • Beneath the Ice
    An ice fishing guide for kids! It has cool diagrams and some great tips.
  • Ice Fishing
    An easy-to-read guide that explains how to become comfortable and successful at ice fishing.

Fishing Gear

A major consideration when deciding to go fishing is what to bring. A fisherman must think about the type of fishing they will be doing and consider rod, reel, and line. For kids, rods should be an appropriate size, not a full-length professional fishing rod. There are rods specifically made for children and they are much safer. When going, it is also important to consider what type of fish is being sought. Fishing lures are attached at the end of the line and are used to ‘lure’ the fish to the bait. However, different fish like different types of lures. Some types include live inchworms and fake small fish.

Fishing Strategies

There are countless strategies used by fishermen in all sorts of situations. For example, fishermen may use different kinds of knots to join their tackle to their fishing line. Some of the knots may include Snell knots; Clinch knots, Trilene knots and offshore swivel knots. Each one of these knots is used for a variety of fishing types. Other strategies fishermen may use include changing their bait or fishing location to ensure that they catch more of the fish they are trying to catch.

  • Bluegill
    If bluegill are your fish of choice, learn the best strategies for their capture.
  • Fishing
    A page for younger kids to learn about fishing, why it’s done and what they can catch.
  • Fishing Bait
    Article, geared toward kids, teaching about the different types of bait and how they work.
  • Fishing Basics
    Never been out fishing? Consult this pamphlet and learn how to get started.
  • Fishing for Kids
    A guide for young anglers planning to catch bream, snappers, trout, perch and others.
  • Forest Service
    Get details about some common warm and cold water fish.
  • Learn to Tie Knots
    This site designed for boy scouts has clip shows for some great knots.
  • Outdoor Canada
    Visit this page to learn about hundreds of Canadian fishing hot spots.
  • Salmon Fishing Tips
    If salmon is your fish of choice, learn the best strategies for their capture.
  • Sierra Club
    Take a look at some of the best places to fish along the Lewis & Clark Trail.
  • Smallmouth Bass Angling Methods
    If smallmouth bass are your fish of choice, learn the best strategies for their capture.
  • Top 11 Urban Fishing Cities in North America
    Want to catch fish but don’t want to venture far from home?
  • Trout
    If trout is your fish of choice, learn the best strategies for their capture.
  • When to Fish
    How does temperature and the weather affect fish behavior?
  • Common Bass Fishing Knots
    Diagrams for the Uni Knot, Palomar Knot, Blood Knot and the Trilene Knot.
  • Fishing Knots and Knot Tying
    Illustrated instructions for how to tie some of the most popular knots for fishing.
  • Fishing Tip and Techniques
    Learn how to catch more bass from this ultimate bass fishing resource.
  • How To Tie Fishing Knots
    Learn how to tie all sorts of fishing knots by following animated steps.

Miscellaneous