Fishing on the water with family and friends is priceless. Summertime Fishing Tips For Kids and Families Schools out! Now we're in the time of year when the weather is perfect for early and late day fishing adventures. Here're a few tips for kids and families who wish to experience the fun and excitement of summertime fishing. Fishing should take place where fish congregated. Kids have a difficult time practicing delayed gratification, so they want to catch something quickly! Personally, in these situations, I would start off fishing for the easier species to find and catch. 
Target bream and bluegill in the neighborhood retention pond, or fish the water around the fish cleaning tables for sailor's choice (aka pinfish or grunts). Catching these smaller, easier to catch species teaches the fundamentals of fishing.
Remember every fish a child catches is as big as they get that size! Keep it simple; don't overcomplicate fishing. Carry a small amount of tackle with bait, hooks, bobber, knife and a dehooking device with you in a five-gallon bucket. Using a dehooking tool to release fish without touching them is easy for both the angler and fish.
Using bait is best when fishing with inexperienced or young anglers. Try small pieces of shrimp or squid on a small gold hook when fishing for saltwater species, and try using cut bits of bacon or hot dog when fishing in freshwater. The number of fish you can catch with bacon may surprise you! Always bring plenty of snacks and water. Well-fed children and adults have better attention spans and more patience. It takes both of these attributes to be a good angler and to experience the full pleasure of fishing. Avoid fishing during the heat of the day, and stop fishing during tropical storms or when lightning occurs! Safety must come first. Use light gear and be sure to go over the tackle with them.
Kids perform better when they have tackle they feel comfortable handling. Practice how to tie the improved clinch knot. Your knots should never fail; they are the single most important thing between you and your fish. Remember, fishing is all about being in the outdoors and observing. Bring along a species identification book for fish, for birds, for wild flowers, etc. You'll find fishing to be an excellent learning activity, and the information in these types of books will enhance the experience. Of course, think safety first, but don't make the kids afraid of the water or what's in it. The majority of our fears are based on ignorance or lack of knowledge and experience.
Yes, be careful on the water; not fearful. No matter what challenges you face on your fishing adventures, keep a positive attitude. Fishing and catching are two entirely different things; learn to enjoy both of them. Email Anglers for Conservation to receive a free copy of the fishing educational booklet, Path of the Enlightened Angler; art and text by artist Mike E. Send $6.00 for shipping and handling to: Anglers for Conservation, PO Box 372423, Satellite Beach, Florida 32937.
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