How to Start a Father's Day Fishing Tradition

Children have been going fishing with their fathers for centuries. It's a quiet, laid-back way to spend some quality time with dear old Dad. Fathers use fishing outings as opportunities to talk with their children about important things in life and to teach them things they'll need to know about in the future. For today's busy families, it may not always be possible to take regular father-child fishing trips. However, you can start a Father's Day fishing tradition at any age.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Tackle box
• Bait
• Fishing line
• Fishing lures
• Selection of portable games
• Snacks
• Bottled water
• Picnic lunch

1. Plan the fishing trip at least a month in advance so that everyone in the family has time to clear their schedules to be there.
2. Research local fishing spots. Your father may have a favorite spot already. If not, find a place that's close by (no further than 100 miles) that has adequate facilities, such as public restrooms and picnic tables. The more scenic the location, the better.
3. Decide whether your tradition will involve fishing from a boat or the shore. If you opt for a boating trip, make arrangements to rent one at least two weeks before you go fishing.
4. Make sure everyone in the family has a fishing pole of her own. Choose smaller, lightweight poles for children under the age of 12.
5. Buy the appropriate supplies. Depending on what you already have on hand, this may include bait, lures, fishing line and/or bug spray. If you don't already have a tackle box, get one.
6. Start the day right with a large breakfast. This will provide you and your family with the energy you need to enjoy your fishing trip.
7. Pack a picnic lunch on the morning of Father's Day, and include plenty of snacks and bottled water. A typical fishing trip takes all day, so having sustenance on hand is important.
8. Bring along some portable games for children to play. Children may not have the attention spans necessary to concentrate on fishing all day long. If they start to get bored, you'll need entertainment options to keep them happy and quiet.
9. Return to the same fishing spot year after year to establish a beloved Father's Day tradition that your family can carry on through the generations.

Tips & Warnings

• If young children who can't swim yet are going on the fishing trip, make sure to equip them with life jackets and keep a close eye on them any time you're on or near the water.
• For children younger than 12, you should place their bait on the fishhooks for them. Otherwise, they might prick their fingers on the hooks' sharp tips.