Teach a Kid to Fish and He'll Have Skills for a Lifetime
Dream Sporting Trips
Updated: June 27th 2016 @ 9:48pm
Give a kid a McFish sandwich and you’ve fed him (or her) for one meal… but teach them how to fish, and you’ve helped create a lifetime of learning and memories they wouldn't trade for anything.
When your kids grow up, chances are they won't recall the names of the video games they played, but what they will remember is a fishing trip with dad, grandpa, or someone who took the time to teach them to fish.
Memories that matter
Fishing is a perfect way to establish lasting bonds with kids. If you want to create a legacy and some lasting memories with your children or grandchildren, try taking them on a fishing trip. It just might be the best gift you ever give them.
Fishing helps kids disconnect from video games and cell phones
Have you noticed how many kids are tethered to their video games and cell phones? They're addicted to being "connected” at all times and sometimes can't get through a family dinner without texting their friends. Because this young generation is the first one in history to grow up around smartphones and wi-fi around the clock, there is no way to gauge just how big of an impact this will have on them as they grow up. Take them fishing, however, and they'll discover the value of genuine quality time... and they'll soon learn that the feel of a fish hitting your line is something that technology just can't compete with.
Fishing teaches kids where their food comes from
It's shocking how many kids today have no idea where the food on their plate actually comes from. What better way to teach a child how to catch their own meal than to show them first hand?
For a real eye opener, check out this video in which Jamie Oliver asks a group of 6-year-olds to identify different vegetables: https://youtu.be/bGYs4KS_djg
Fishing teaches survival skills
In order to be well rounded, able to thrive and survive in the world, the kid that knows how to tie knots and catch and clean his own fish stands a better chance than the kid whose primary accomplishment is how to win more video games than his friend. Don’t let them grow up to be adults that would have no idea how to feed their families if the Internet shut down for a week.
Fishing teaches conservation and the love of nature
Far too many kids don't spend enough time in the great outdoors--watching Dora the Explorer on TV from the comfort of a couch doesn't count as an outdoor adventure. Get your kids outside, put a rod in their hands, and watch them blossom into young adults that respect and admire the outdoors.
Fishing teaches patience
Kids these days are accustomed to instant gratification, and it's no surprise. Dinners from drive-thru windows, movies on demand, and the endless amount of entertainment options on the Internet teach kids they can get what they want, when they want. On the other hand, exposing kids to fishing teaches them the joy of patience. In today’s world, kids with patience will far outshine all of their peers who don’t know the meaning of the word. Get them outside with a fishing pole for a couple of hours and watch how their demeanor changes like magic.
Fishing teaches kids the power of conversation
Many kids admit they will text their friend who is within sight instead of walking over and talking to them! Fishing offers a time to slow down, interact, and enjoy the pleasure of face-to-face conversation.
Fishing helps keep kids out of trouble
Don't let your kid be the one to get away! Kids who are addicted to fishing are less likely to spend their spare time in pursuit of the vices that could end up hurting or even killing them. Several programs across the country have sprang up, e.g., Hooked On Fishing, Not On Drugs, as a way to connect kids with adults who will spend time with them and teach them to fish. The results have been phenomenal... and the kids love it.
Fishing bonds families together
Fishing is one of those bonds that continues to bring families together for years and even generations to come. When children grow up having spent countless days fishing with you, guess what they'll still want to do in their spare time? Spend time with you and take YOU fishing!
A chartered fishing trip is a great way to share the sport with kids
What if you don't know how to fish? What if you find if difficult to be patient with youngsters? What if you'd rather have an expert show them how to fly cast? There are any number of reasons you might want a little extra help when it comes to teaching children the fine art of fishing.
That's why you'll love hiring a charter fishing guide. There are many charter fishing guides who offer family-friendly trips, child-sized fishing equipment, and plenty of hands-on help. They enjoy sharing their love of fishing with children and get a kick out of watching them reel in their very first fish. They'll often share fishing stories that will entertain the kids (and you) all day long.
Look through our online directory for a charter fishing guide in your area and contact him. Don't be afraid to ask him questions before booking a trip:
- Does he welcome kids on board?
- Does he provide child-size fishing equipment?
- Is he willing to demonstrate how to bait a hook, cast a line, and reel in a fish?
- Does he provide drinks onboard?
- Can you bring your own snacks?
Kids grow up fast. Don't wait--take your kids fishing now and it will pay dividends for years to come!
Related:
Family Fishing Charters - Making Memories Count
