Smiles of early success – Chris B

June is upon us and school is almost out. Kids out for summer! Many people ask us when is it a good time to start teaching their children how to fish or fly fish? We reply, as soon as possible! Fishing is a wonderful bonding experience for child and parent. The beauty and wonders of the great outdoors can be captivating and an exciting long term family affair. Our son, Chris, received his first fly reel at six months; a great exercise reeling both forward and backward. We actually had him on drift trips at 3-4 months, and at a year and a half we had him hooked up into his first half pounder steelhead. Our daughter, Kellie, also got into the action at age 11; fishing on Lewiston Lake, landing trout between making mud pies and venturing off for other shoreline discoveries. Now our grandson, Mason age 5, is following in their footsteps. Casting a fly rod and landing trout whenever possible. Never too young to begin.

Catch of the day – Kellie B

Simply based upon a few years of hanging around here is some sound advice you might consider before taking a child fishing. Before you go fishing have a well laid out plan designed around the child’s age. Take the time to consider their interest level and attention span. Leave the computer games/toys at home. Focus on the total and pure outdoor experience. Very young, under the age 10, you may be surprised kids simply enjoy the outing and tripping around just as much or more than fishing. At this age level you basically have about an hour to fish and maintain the interest. If fish are not biting or cooperating stay positive by turning the child loose so they can enjoy all the other aspects of the outdoors; hiking, skipping/throwing rocks, swimming etc..On the other hand, some kids are born fisherman; watching every TV fishing shows, reading every fishing mag/web site, spending their loose change and hard earned allowance on tackle and always expressing a strong desire to wet a line. If your child has these symptoms you are fortunate as they are truly a rare breed. I strongly suggest you support them in every way and take them fishing as often as possible. Ultimately, you will be glad you did. Never force fishing upon children—let them dictate how much and how long the trip should be. Always be there for help, encouragement and direction.

Nice vest – Mason Sayre & Rainbow!

We hear from some people that had grown up going camping and fishing, “it was the best times, whether we caught fish or not.” Some will even go as far as saying that if it wasn’t for camping and fishing with my parents, summers would have been boring and the fun actually kept many out of trouble, enhancing a new sense of direction and fun. Kids who grow up camping and fishing seem to be much happier with the simple things in life, are keen/ alert, have a greater outlook and tend to adjust to life’s sometimes bumpy roads. No better way to sooth the soul than go fishing. So if you are considering taking junior on a fishing venture, leave the Nanny behind and do it as a family. Fishing is a great cornerstone to build lifelong relationships and memories with your children. Fish’em now—Hook’em early!