Let’s Go Fishing!
With licence-free fishing days around the corner and National Fishing Week not too far away, I thought this would be an opportune time to share some tips for parents and families wanting to participate in one of Canada’s heritage activities.
Fishing is a relatively inexpensive and highly accessible sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. There are numerous benefits associated with this activity: improved patience, communication and mental health, better understanding and appreciation of our natural resources, increased self-esteem, it encourages problem solving and gives families an opportunity to “unplug” and have fun.
No licence, no equipment? No worries! Brand new anglers can give fishing a try at almost no cost during licence-free days: Family Day, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day weekends. Events are held throughout the province and most of them are free or charge a minimal fee to cover costs. They often provide equipment and tackle to those that need it and, best of all, families don’t need fishing licences. Co-ordinated by the Ontario Federation of Anglers & Hunters (OFAH), Ontario Family Fishing Events (OFFE) is supported by a host of national and provincial outdoors organizations. To find an event in your area, go to: http://www.ontariofamilyfishing.com/
National Fishing Week National Fishing Week (NFW) (June 29 – July 7) offers even more fishing opportunities for Canadian citizens. Licence-free days in Ontario coincide with NFW and again, the OFFE website is your go-to resource for finding events close to home. One of the most helpful (and compact) resources I have come across for anglers is the “Catch Fishing” booklet. Written by the late Rick Amsbury, outdoorsman and former Executive Director of the Canadian National Sportfishing Foundation http://www.csia.ca/, this booklet contains information about picking out a rod and reel, fish care, boat safety and everything in between. It can be ordered for free or downloaded at: www.keepcanadafishing.com/national-fishing-week
An equally valuable resource is the “Learn to Fish” guide, produced by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. It too is packed with fishing facts and tips on tackle, knots, bait, fishing techniques, casting, safety and so much more. “Learn to Fish” is available at: https://www.ontario.ca/document/learn-to-fish-guide
OFAH TackleShare Program Do you have a child that wants to fish? Do you have a fishing licence but not yet invested in a rod or maybe you forgot your equipment at home? This is where the OFAH TackleShare program can help you out. TackleShare, sponsored by Ontario Power Generation, allows families without fishing equipment to borrow rods, reels and tackle for free and as easily as signing out a library book. They have a number of loaner sites at Ontario Parks, conservation areas and other community organizations throughout the province as well as a travelling program. www.tackleshare.com
Family Fishing Checklist for Parents
• Leave your rod and reel at home – it’s about the kids having the experience and needing your help – you want them to enjoy themselves and not get discouraged.
• Let the kids be part of the planning – give them simple tasks that they are responsible for.
• Move around – kids have short attention spans – from shore or boat – a change of venue is a good thing.
• A boat ride can be a lot of fun – don’t hurry.
• Size doesn’t matter – pan fish are a lot of fun, easy to find and plentiful.
• Snacks and drinks – make them treats – this will help make the day a special occasion.
• Sunscreen – don’t want anyone to get burnt
• Whistles and lifejackets – from shore or a boat –you need both near the water and make sure everyone knows that blowing the whistle means “I need help”.
• Make the day shorter than longer – make more short trips instead of fewer longer trips.
• Worms work best – they’re effective and very fun to play with when fishing is slow.
• Try a snack that you cook outdoors – either on a portable stove or fire – warm up mac and cheese or a can of beans – cook fries or even some fish – the novelty of the outside meal will make a lasting memory.
• Dress for the weather – being cold is a terrible feeling – if it’s raining too much – call it a day and do it another time – there’s nothing fun about sitting in the rain when you’re just learning about fishing.
• Give the kids your undivided attention – this is quality time for the both of you.
• Bobbers, bobbers and more bobbers – the visual element is good and gives the new angler something to focus on.
• Simple, short rod and reel – don’t use something “they’ll grow into” – give them something they can handle.
• Be patient and have fun!
Ontario Women Anglers provides numerous opportunities to learn and get out on the water. To learn more about our club, please visit: www.ontariowomenanglers.ca
