photo courtesy of FishHer Pro-Staff member Linda Berry

These girls are ready to go fishing!

School's out for the summer! You can hear that cry all across America as kids race out of their school buildings with a new-found freedom. Usually the newness of the freedom wears off in just a few weeks, and for many comes the "I'm bored!". Take the kids fishing this summer - and make it a fun one they'll never forget!

Getting started is easy. Check around for some loaner rods and reels to
borrow from family or friends. Ask a fishing friend to mentor your family
and show you some fishing basics - how to tie a simple fishing knot, how to
bait a hook, how to cast and how to remove fish from the hook and safely
release it back into the water. 

There are a lot of fishing lures and tackle out there - don't get
overwhelmed by all of the options. As your family gets more experienced you
can start building up your own equipment and gear, but for now just keep it
simple.

One great resource that provides state-by-state information on local fishing
lakes, how to get your fishing license and other beginning fishing
information is TakeMeFishing.org. Most states require fishing licenses for
anyone over 16 - so be sure to take yours with you when you go. You can also
check out FishHer.com for great basic fishing information for women and
kids. 

Live bait usually catches the most fish. Chances are there is a bait shop
near the lake you are headed for. Be sure to ask them at the bait shop what
others are catching, and what the "hot" bait is right now. Bring along a can
of corn for bait as well, as some little ones can't get past a worm's slimy
wiggle. Fishing early in the day, or just before sunset are usually the best
times to catch fish.

Make it fun. Have contests for the first fish, biggest fish and most fish -
kids love a little friendly competition. Remember, for the kids it is
important to have a fun time fishing. We yell "Fish On!" when we catch a
fish and "Woo Hoo" when we hear "Fish On!". Don't forget to pack some
drinks, snacks, sun block and most importantly a camera.

With the price of gas these days many families are choosing to vacation
close to home. Take some mini "stay"-cations fishing with your kids.
Including them in the planning, and letting them make some of the decisions
will empower them and help them feel like a big part of the fishing
adventure. Add picnics, hikes or even geocaching along with the fishing and
make a day of it.

School may be out, but the kids will still be learning important life
lessons in their new outdoor summer classroom. Teach them about nature,
conservation, and the importance of getting unplugged and spending time
making memories with family and friends. They'll thank you for getting them
"Hooked" on fishing this summer!