Here's a handy checklist of things to take along when you're planning on taking a youngster fishing. These items along with a lot of patience and understanding from the parent, will help make for a most enjoyable adventure for everyone. Please remember one important note, a youngster's safety and comfort should be of utmost importance -- after all, this is a training session for a potential lifelong fishing partner.
Life jacket -- This is a must when taking a small youngster near the water. We strongly encourage parents to have their youngsters take swimming lessons as early as possible. Stearns makes a great jacket.
Sunscreen -- Sunscreen is also a must. One bad sunburn during childhood can double the risk of skin cancer later in life. Use it, and use it often. Native Tan has a great product.
Insect repellent -- Always a good idea to have on hand. Mosquitoes and other stinging, biting bugs love areas around the water just as much as kids do. We use Off Skintastic.
Sunglasses -- It's been proven that the proper sunglasses can help protect people's eyes from dangerous sun rays, especially youngsters' tender eyes. It also helps reduce glare off the water, making visibility better. I recommend Solar Bat glasses.
Fishing tackle and bait -- We strongly encourage you to use the proper sized tackle for a child's small hands. Get some expert advice to help you pick out the right equipment. For bait, start young anglers off using worms and a bobber! We use Shakespeare and Ugly Stik for our rod/reels.
Snacks and drinks -- Never take a youngster fishing without some munchies and something to drink. Something about being outdoors seems to increase young appetites. Try some Spillville Locker Hot Sticks!
Ice chest / cooler -- Very important, especially during the summer. A Coleman Cooler is really great for keeping the drinks cool . . . and the worms alive!
Cap or visor -- All kids like to wear a cap or visor. It's cool . . . and it keeps the sun out of their eyes and off their foreheads. Custom Fishing Tree hats available through Gallery of Tops, Decorah, Iowa.
First Aid kit -- A first aid kit is of utmost importance to always carry with you. Keep them handy in your car or tackle box. They're wonderful for scrapes and scratches. We use Johnson & Johnson First Aid Kits.
"Dedicated to finding the future angler in every child."
