Ready to Go Fishing on a Sunny Afternoon?

I can't think of a better way to relax on a warm sunny afternoon. You can go fishing alone or take the kids or grandkids. It probably would be much more relaxing to go alone, but the kids would love it. I can't think of a better way to bond with them and have a good time. It's a great way to make memories. You can bet they will be anxious to tell their friends about this experience.

You will need to do some serious preparations for this trip. Make sure Mom knows what you are planning so there won't be any conflicts on the date and time. The kids will be really disappointed if you make plans and there turns out to be a conflict. If the kids don't have fishing poles, you might have to make a trip to the store. Keep in mind their ages and get poles that will be appropriate. A good, experienced clerk can give you ideas for them. The rod and reel should not be complicated or too long. If you already have rods and reels, make sure you check them out. They might need some oil or new string. The kids will be really frustrated if they get to the water and things don't work. Choose a fishing spot that is not dangerous. You don't want high banks or really fast, deep water. Be sure to take sun screen. Stick a jacket in the car just in case the wind comes up and it cools off. A ball cap gives the eyes some protection from a glaring sun. Tell Mom where you are going and approximately when you plan to return.

If you are going out in a boat, be sure to have life jackets that are appropriate for the age and weight of the child. In case of emergency have a cell phone and a whistle to attract attention in case you have motor trouble. Watch the clouds and wind in case a storm pops up. You will want to avoid rough water or an electrical storm.

Don't forget the bait! Have you ever gone night crawler hunting? You should run a sprinkler in the yard during the afternoon before you go out that night. Worms don't like the wetness and after dark they usually crawl up into the grass. Get a flashlight and VERY QUIETLY walk out into the grass. If you see a worm, very slowly reach down, then QUICKLY grab it. They can often sense that you are there and can disappear so fast into their hole. Don't be surprised if you miss a few! Put them into a container that has a little bit of dirt or some worm bedding and put on a cover with holes in it. You can buy regular bait boxes. They should be kept fairly cool.

Teach the kids about safety. Those fish hooks are mighty sharp. Give them each plenty of space so that when they cast their line out into the water they won't catch their hook into someone. It's also best to put some distance between them and a tree. Putting a worm on a hook can be quite a task. Show them the right way to do it. Teach them to cast lightly. If they exert too much energy they might get off balance and fall into the water. Oh yes, you should take a bucket just in case you catch a fish!

You MUST have a picnic lunch. That is part of the fun. Don't pack anything messy. Drinks should be in bottles or glasses with lids so they won't spill easily. Keep it simple. Sandwiches, fruit and cookies would be enough. They will be so excited on catching a fish that they won't want to spend much time eating. Of course, you will need a blanket or table cloth to spread on the ground. A roll of paper towels might come in handy. A bottle of water can be used for washing hands.