How to start fishing with kids (without overthinking it)

If you’ve been thinking about taking your kids fishing and keep putting it off because it feels like too much - know that you don’t need to figure everything out first.

Starting simple goes a long way.

When fishing started becoming a regular thing for us, it wasn’t planned out in detail. No perfect setup. No checklist we followed exactly. It was just showing up near water and seeing what happened. It helped that Andre was a "pro angler" but really getting out there is still how most of our best days begin.

You don’t need a lot of gear: A basic rod. Some hooks. Bait. Enough to get a line in the water.

You don’t need a perfect spot: A local lake. A quiet edge. Somewhere you can stand and settle for a bit.

You don’t need hours. Sometimes an hour is more than enough.

You don't need to wait until they are old enough. Our boys started from around 2 years old, but Andre made sure he started taking them out on the waters long before! (pro tip: get a kiddie life jacket)

Taking the boat out on the reservoir after school, at sunset

Simple ways to get started (5 step)

If you’re not sure where to begin, this is how we’d do it.

1. Start with one basic rod

You don’t need a full setup. One simple rod and reel is enough to begin. Something easy to hold, easy to cast. You can figure out the rest later (what types of rods work best in what waters, and for what fish, and so on)

2. Pick an easy spot

A quiet lake, a dock nearby, even the edge of a pond. Somewhere you can stand without rushing. You’re not looking for the perfect location, just somewhere you can stay for a bit.

3. Keep the gear minimal

Hooks, bait, life jackets especially for the littles, maybe a small pair of scissors or clippers. That’s enough to get a line in the water. Too much gear too early can turn the whole thing into work.

4. Go at the right time (but don’t overthink it)

Early morning or late afternoon tends to be better, but honestly, going when you can matters more. The first trip is just about starting.

5. Let the day be what it is

Some days you’ll catch something. Some days you won’t. Kids might stay focused, or they might wander. Either way, it still counts.

Fishing with kids comes with its own rhythm. There’s waiting, yes. But there’s also questions, movement, distractions, snacks, and moments where attention shifts completely. Some days, someone is focused and locked in. Some days, they’re looking at everything except the water and their mouths are running a mile a minute. That’s part of it. We’ve had trips where nothing happens on the line, and still, something about being there holds the day together.

You’re not trying to create a perfect fishing experience. You’re just opening the door to it.

The rest builds over time. We’ll talk through permits and licenses separately - it’s simpler than it sounds once you see it laid out.

See you out there!

Where families grow wild.

— Tiffany