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Fishing: You Could Get Hooked!

Fishing: You Could Get Hooked! 18/01/2008 - By Lesley Russell

Stockxpert

Going Fishing

Recreational fishing is a great way to get the young ones out of the house and actively exploring and learning.

Recreational fishing is a great way to get the young ones out of the house and actively exploring and learning.  The lure of fishing has over 5 million Australians jostling for the best position on river and ocean jetties, rock walls, beaches and boats across Australia.
 
Position, knowing where to fish, is very important and so is your fishing equipment. If you are fishing off a jetty or boat, anywhere that you don’t need to cast, a hand line will do the trick (ask around as someone you know is sure to have one in the shed - somewhere). Otherwise a starter kit for casting from your local tackle shop will cost around $25 which includes a rod, reel and line. Add to that a bag of hooks, sinkers, swivels and a bag of bait and you are all set.
 
When selecting your fishing gear, or tackle as it is called, it is best to get quality advice.  Visit your local tackle store and get set up properly. For example, for five and six year old children a six foot rod will be fine, look for something simple to use and lightweight. While you are there, the staff will also show you have to rig the line (tie on the sinker and hook), how to cast and will be more than happy to point you in the right direction to catch a fish.
 
After a visit to your local tackle store you should be feeling more confidant and eager to wet your line to see what bites. Remember fishing, like any activity, does involve risks. The Better Health Channel provides a fact sheet containing important practical information on Preventing Injury while Fishing.
 
Another way to gain experience and learn more about the practical aspects of fishing including safety, fishing rules and regulations and responsible fishing practices is to attend a family/children’s fishing workshop run by your state department of fishing or local fishing club or tackle shop. These workshops are a great way to assess how interested your child is in fishing before purchasing the gear – and they will learn a lot. Browse or search the Active Family Events Calendar for Fishing Workshops and Days in your local area. Soon your children will be showing you a thing or two.
 
For the DIYers there are a number of online guides available to help you get started. A search will net quite a few resourceful sites.  Here’s a few to get you started:
 
 
There are licences, rules and regulations in place to ensure fishing is sustainable in years to come. Contact your state department of fisheries for further recreational fishing information:
Over time and practice your knowledge and fishing skills will improve and one day you may be bringing home dinner on a regular basis. Enjoy, play by the rules and safe fishing.
 
General Information on Recreational Fishing in Australia:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
All ages: Fishing is best suited for children aged 5+.
Abilities:               All abilities. The Fishers with Disability Association (WA) helps community members with disabilities become actively involved in recreational fishing. Check with your state department of fisheries for your local association.
Cost:                      A starter kit costs around $25 from your local tackle store. You will also need bait, hooks, swivels and sinkers. It is recommended you seek advice from experienced and knowledgeable staff at your local tackle shop. A little bit of knowledge and guidance may save some $$$.
Licence:                Check with your local tackle store or state department of fisheries.
Time commitment:
As much or as little as your schedule and passion requires. Children should be supervised by a responsible adult at all times and not left to fish alone. This quiet time together, without the general distractions and demands of life, provides a great opportunity to chat – and you may also catch dinner.
Best tip:               Your first fishing trip should be to your local tackle store, owned and operated by experienced and passionate local people who live for fishing. The friendly staff will know the local area and will be more than happy to spend some time with you and your family to get you ready for your fishing trip.
                                Tip 2: When learning to cast it is best to practice without the hook.
Start by:                              
Organising a family excursion to your local tackle shop

Finding your local fishing workshop in the Active Families Event Calendar


Photo Gallery

Click here for Slideshow. You can also click on any of the photos to start slideshow.

  • Jetty Fishing

  • Girl Fishing

  • Family Fishing