FS Digest

My 7 yr old is SUPER into fishing and I barely know the basics (hook, worm, and sinker). He’s caught on that the other dad’s are swapping out different types of lures for different fish, anyone have a good resource for what I should look for?

Any advice is appreciated, I’m sure he’ll catch on I’m googling everything behind his back soon :)

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by d_does_dallas

FS Digest

I have two boys, one a teenager now and one almost there. Right now, I'm actually taking a break from getting the jon boat ready to take my youngest one out to catch some catfish. Here's a few Dad tips:

1. For littles who are just getting into the thrill of the catch, I suggest finding a nice shady spot and put a small treble hook (size #10 or #12) like you'd use for trout fishing. Cut a piece of worm just small enough to put on the hook. Small weight an inch or two above the hook, then a bobber 8-10 inches above that. I used to do that and my little guy would catch little tiny bluegill on just about every cast.

2. If they don't have the patience for watching a cork, then any basic "panfish kit" will work fine. Have 'em pick a favorite color, put a barrel swivel w/ a safety snap on the end of their line so they can switch out until they find one that catches. I'm a fan of just a white jig, but my boys both liked playing with the different colors when they were about that age. Carry a set of needle-nosed pliers.

3. If you have a way to get out into a lake (kayak, boat, big ol' tube) then it's fun to make up a set of pool noodles for jug-fishing (check your state regs). Hit the web for some designs. Our favorite thing to do these days is throw out about 20 of them and then spend the next hour or so chasing down 3-5lb catfish. I rig those with a circle hook, 1oz sinker, and a half-inch chunk of hotdog.


I learned the hard way to teach them to yell out "casting!" before they cast. Gives me time to duck or get out of the dad-hooking zone. As much as they initially liked having their own kid tackle box, I found that they really stayed interested in Dad's Stuff (which, as any parent knows, your stuff is the most fascinating and alluring stuff in the world) so I transferred my entirely too-big tackle box into a smaller canvas bag that they could strap over their shoulder and use. Also, the fish don't care if you're using a Paw Patrol rod & reel or a stick. A ~$20 ultralight, though, is fun.

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by HikingUphill

FS Digest

Want to agree and reemphasize what was brought up that a bobber, a split shot on the line and a worm go a long way. Don't feel like you need to overcomplicate it if you're new. My little brother caught the biggest bass our family has ever caught when he was 6 just by doing this.

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by bax_trax85

Paul britton Loc: Carlsbad nm

Another thin you can get is jig sets fish love them and they come in varieties of colors to

JamieG Loc: new Jersey-sandy hook, raritan bay

Be prepared to be patient, I have found that little guys can figure out every possible way to tangie line or hook something they're not supposed to so be prepared. If there is a local bait and tackle shop don't be afraid to ask a few questions they will almost always steer you in the right direction, And don't be afraid to ask a couple of those dads around you if they seem to know what they're doing they're usually happy to share. The day before fishing you might have your 7 year old go around and gather his own worms, It will keep him busy and have him be part of the entire experience by catching his own bait. Enjoy and post a picture of him with his 1st fish

bapabear Loc: Blaine, Washington

Rules, not necessarily in order,
Rule 1 : Leave your own rod at home. A youngster at that age, needs your full attention
Rule 2 : Go after small fish (kids like volume not big)
Rule 3 : Keep it fun. The best part of a fishing trip might be skipping rocks in the water at the end of the trip.
Rule 4 : Find COMFORTABLE life jackets, especially for the kids and wear them. Teach by example. A bulky life jacket will ruin their trip. No life jacket may ruin your life.
Rule 5 : Take pictures. Kids love to show mom their fish even if released.
Rule 6 : It is not about food. A 4" bull head is as good as a 14" crappie. And a hand caught tad pole out shines a 4 pound bass any day.
Rule 7 : Keep it simple
Rule 8 : Please, Please, Please remember : Unlike nearly all other situations, when fishing, your kids are your partners and friends. As always, teach respect for others and the environment, but leave the parent attitude at home, withing reason of course.
Rule 9 : If you are not both laughing and having fun, you are doing it wrong.
Rule 10 : Take lots of snacks an pass them out freely. You can become a health conscious parent again when you get home. RTKF

DoryMan Loc: Southern Maine

All good advice.

Sidewinder Loc: S/E AZ.

Now that was some good advise, raised two boys myself in Ohio, the casting rule, I love that. Take care of those youngens. The memories will last a life time. I guess once they know how to bait their own hook your half way there.

stuco Loc: Northern Utah - Salt Lake City

What wonderful input! All who responded gave great advice. It’s hard to keep it fun all the time, but well worth it. That is precious time you can never get back. Enjoy it!

Jakestake83 Loc: Mooresville NC

I have wreitten several books about freshwater fishing that are considered text's for new start-ups. check them out at www,booksbyjake,com