Fishing is one of the best ways to introduce kids to the outdoors, and few know more about making fishing fun for all ages than professional bass angler Kevin VanDam (KVD). With his decades of experience, KVD offers a wealth of knowledge that can turn a family fishing trip into a memorable experience, especially when fishing with kids. In this article, we’ll cover practical tips straight from the legendary pro, including gear recommendations, safety advice, and fun ways to engage children on the water.
Why Fishing with Kids Matters
Taking kids fishing fosters a deeper connection to nature, helps them develop patience, and creates lasting family memories. But fishing with young ones can be challenging. Kevin VanDam emphasizes that the key is to keep it simple, fun, and stress-free. Whether you’re fishing for bass, bluegill, or just getting your feet wet with the basics, VanDam’s tips ensure that the experience is enjoyable for both you and your kids.
1. Keep It Simple: Choosing the Right Gear
When fishing with kids, the gear doesn’t have to be complex or expensive. According to KVD, simplicity is essential in keeping children engaged. Here’s what VanDam suggests:
Rod & Reel
- Recommended Model: Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Youth Combo
- Price: Around $40
- Specs:
- Rod Length: 5’6” (perfect for smaller hands)
- Action: Medium
- Reel: Pre-spooled spinning reel
- Line Weight: Suitable for 6-10 lb. test
This combo is perfect for beginners, offering durability without sacrificing ease of use. The medium action is great for targeting various species, from small bass to panfish.
Tackle
For tackle, Kevin advises keeping it minimal:
- Hooks: Size 6-8 (perfect for catching smaller fish like bluegill)
- Bobbers: Small, easy-to-see bobbers are great for helping kids track bites.
- Weights: Split shot weights keep the bait submerged but are light enough to not overwhelm young anglers.
These basic tools are all you need for a successful day on the water. The goal is to give kids manageable equipment they can handle on their own, boosting their confidence and independence.
2. Safety First: Set Ground Rules
VanDam stresses that fishing safety is non-negotiable, especially with kids. Here are some of his go-to rules:
Life Jackets
Every child should wear a life jacket, even if they know how to swim. VanDam recommends U.S. Coast Guard-approved life vests. A solid choice is:
- Onyx Youth Life Jacket
- Price: Around $30
- Specs:
- Weight: Suitable for children 50-90 lbs
- Safety Features: Reflective material, durable nylon shell
Sun Protection
Long hours on the water can lead to sunburn. Make sure kids are protected with:
- Sunscreen: SPF 30 or higher
- Hats: Wide-brimmed for better coverage
- Sunglasses: Polarized lenses help reduce glare on the water and protect their eyes.
Hydration & Snacks
Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and snacks. KVD emphasizes that a hungry or thirsty child will lose interest quickly, so having snacks they enjoy can extend the trip and keep spirits high.
3. Target Easier-to-Catch Species
VanDam suggests starting with fish that are abundant and easy to catch to keep kids excited. One of the best options is bluegill, a small panfish that bites frequently and can be caught in many freshwater lakes and ponds. Bluegill don’t require specialized gear, and they tend to school, offering lots of action to keep kids entertained.
VanDam’s Go-To Bait for Kids:
- Live Worms or Nightcrawlers: Simple, effective, and easy for kids to use.
- Price: Around $5 per dozen
- Alternative: If you don’t want to handle live bait, Berkley PowerBait or Gulp! Bait are excellent artificial substitutes.
- Price: Around $3-$7 for a pack.
VanDam notes that while bass fishing can be thrilling for older kids, it might not always be the best for younger anglers who need more frequent action. As they grow more comfortable and patient, you can introduce them to more challenging species like largemouth bass.
4. Keep It Fun: Games and Challenges
To keep children engaged throughout the day, VanDam recommends turning fishing into a game:
- Fish Count Competition: Whoever catches the most fish wins a small prize.
- Size Challenge: Award points for catching the biggest fish or the smallest one.
- Casting Practice: See who can cast the farthest or land their bait closest to a target.
These mini-games can turn a slow fishing day into an exciting adventure for kids. Just make sure to emphasize that the main goal is fun, not necessarily winning.
5. Short Trips Are Better
Kevin VanDam reminds parents that attention spans, especially for younger children, are short. The trick is to keep the trip brief but enjoyable. A couple of hours is usually sufficient for kids under 10. If they’re still having fun after that, great! But it’s better to leave them wanting more than to drag out the trip until they’re bored.
Bonus Tip: Bring Entertainment
When kids need a break, have some non-fishing activities on hand. Whether it’s skipping rocks, bird-watching, or exploring the shore, giving kids a change of pace will keep the outing enjoyable.
6. Teach Respect for Nature
VanDam believes it’s never too early to instill in children a respect for nature and wildlife. He advises showing kids how to handle fish properly and explaining the importance of catch and release. Teach them to leave no trace by cleaning up the fishing area before leaving, which sets a good example for the next generation of anglers.
Recommended Gear Breakdown
| Item | Price | Specs |
|---|---|---|
| Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Combo | $40 | 5’6” rod, medium action, pre-spooled spinning reel |
| Onyx Youth Life Jacket | $30 | Suitable for 50-90 lbs, reflective material, Coast Guard-approved |
| Live Worms or Nightcrawlers | $5/dozen | Effective bait for bluegill and other panfish |
| Berkley PowerBait/Gulp! | $3-$7 | Alternative to live bait, fish-attracting scent |
Conclusion: A Day of Fun, Learning, and Bonding
Fishing with kids can be one of the most rewarding family experiences, but it requires the right approach. By following Kevin VanDam’s advice—keeping things simple, focusing on safety, targeting easy-to-catch fish, and making the day fun—you’ll set the stage for a positive introduction to the sport. Remember, the goal isn’t to catch the biggest fish but to create lasting memories with your children, teaching them a love for the outdoors that will last a lifetime.
So grab your gear, pack your snacks, and hit the water for a family fishing adventure. As KVD would say, “It’s not about the fish you catch, but the smiles you share.” Happy fishing!
Happy Boating!
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Read Boat Yoga: 5 Poses to Do Onboard Your Boat until we meet in the next article.