A day out on the lake with kids is different than with just adults since children have different needs in what they eat, drink, and enjoy. However, kids will treasure this time with you. Make it an event they’ll never forget by following these five tips for a successful fishing trip with kids. Boating season may not last forever, but the memories you create will.
Set Some Expectations
Children find new adventures exciting, which is why it’s so fun to take them out for the day. It’s also a good reason to set expectations so they know ahead of time what the day will involve. If not, they might expect too much and end up disappointed afterward. Keep the following thoughts in mind as you consider what your kids can count on for the fishing trip:
- How long will you be out?
- Do they know they have to keep their life jackets on?
- Are you catching and releasing, or are you bringing home dinner?
- How much are the kids handling on their own regarding bait and casting?
Teach the Kids Safety
Going out on the water for the day and handling fishing equipment is dangerous if someone doesn’t know what they are doing. You’ll all enjoy the day more if the kids learn how to behave and how to handle all the gear. Keep water safety, boat safety, and fishing safety in mind, and discuss it all before you head out.
Pack Fun Snacks
Who doesn’t love to eat? Most kids do, especially during a fun day out. Plus, hungry or thirsty children won’t feel well, and that can ruin a fishing adventure. Use the following list for snack ideas that kids love:
- Drink boxes
- Bottled water
- Fruit snacks
- Sandwiches
- Chips
- Cookies
Keep in mind any allergies or other restrictive diets, and make sure to pack the cold stuff in an icy cooler.
Choose the Best Lake
Have you ever been fishing and caught nothing? This is a disappointing and sometimes boring experience. With kids, you can plan on multiplying that disappointment and boredom if they don’t see any fish for the day. If you know a lake that is abundant with fish to catch, play it safe and choose that one to take the kids to.
Make Memories
You might be taking the kids out so they can learn some great fishing skills, but more than likely, you are also doing it to spend some quality time together. That’s why one of the best tips for a successful fishing trip with kids is to remember you are out there to make memories. Here are some ideas to make that happen:
- Snap lots of pictures.
- Laugh as much as possible.
- Pay attention to how the kids are feeling. If they need a break, put down the rods and enjoy a snack.
- Make conversation by asking them questions about their favorite things.
More than anything else, be patient. Children have shorter attention spans, and nothing will ruin the trip more quickly than an impatient adult.
At Smooth Moves, we believe fishing on a boat should be comfortable and enjoyable at any age. The unique design of the Smooth Moves air ride boat pedestal adjusts easily to accommodate all sizes and weights, making the ride flawless and the comfort level unlike any other. Check out our impressive boat seat suspension systems, and contact us with any questions!
