Free Kids’ Fishing Rodeos June 6

Few memories stick out as clearly as catching that first fish and who we were with when we caught it. Make it a special pre-Father’s Day treat to teach your kids the ropes for free on Saturday June 6. It’s Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency’s (TWRA) free fishing day and plenty of Fishing Rodeos are slated for kids who don’t need a licenses or to pay a fee.

FREE KIDS’ FISHING RODEOS ON SATURDAY, JUNE 6

GETTING STARTED

The biggest thing to know about going fishing with kids is that it is about spending quality time together.

Avoid putting pressure on yourself or the kids by expecting to catch lots of fish or especially big fish: Remember they call it fishing — not catching — for a reason. Patience is the key! Fishing provides a great time to learn more about your kids and to just talk.

Kids will remember these moments forever, and it’s the little things that stick with us. It’s not about the big boat; or stopping at nothing to bring home a bucket of fish; or spending time buying all of that high-quality fishing equipment. Favorite memories come from laughter, simple surprises and just being together. So before you head out on your first fishing trip this summer, remember: keep it simple!

It’s not the time to try out new spots or to practice new techniques. Go to a tried-and-true location where you know fish will be. Smaller ponds that are well stocked are a great choice, simply because you don’t have to search hard for fish. Just cast out a worm and you’ll be reeling in fish in no time.

DO’S AND DON’TS

DO plan for a shorter day

Simplicity is key and you don’t want to drag out the day. Set aside enough time for fun, but don’t expect it to go as planned.

DO pay attention to weather

Is it cool and windy? Chance of rain? This will make a huge difference, especially if you plan on casting your line from a boat. If it rains, don’t grab the umbrellas and head out anyway. There will be more sunny days.

DO go to “small” water, especially if your kids are little

Small ponds make it easier to catch a fish. As kids grow older, you can start experimenting with larger lakes and heading out on boats.

DO choose live bait

This is the easiest way to catch a fish if you’re a beginner. If it’s your child’s first time fishing, use live bait such as mealworms or wax worms — everything that swims will eat it.

DON’T carry too much

Keep your equipment light. The last thing you want is to lug along loads of heavy equipment and use your time together getting it all setup. Your fishing rod, your kids new fishing pole, bait, snacks, sunscreen, water, hand sanitizer and towels. Done.

DON’T target a specific fish

This can be way too complicated, especially with younger kids. Whatever they catch, whether it be a giant catfish or little tiny bluegill, make a big deal of it!

DON’T stay in one spot

Move around and let your kids have a say on where they want to go next. If they are young and you’re not getting a bite for the first five or 10 minutes, move on!

DON’T take things for granted

Be mindful of where you choose your fishing spot, watch the kids closely, and never let your kids bait a hook or handle fishing equipment by themselves unless they already know how. Guide them through it and assist them with their first cast.

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