Dear Flagler Sportfishing Club Members,
Last month I asked about events or a club with our club for our children or
grandchildren. As I sit here trying to think of a topic to write about, I recall an article
which I read some time ago in the Coastal Angler North East Florida Edition written by
Nick Carter titled, “Build your own fishing buddy.” It was a great article talking about
teaching our children to fish and spending time with them.
This article reminded me of the time I spent teaching my three sons how to fish. I wish I
had read it back then. At that point in my life, I had already spent half my career in the
U.S. Navy, where I was trained to focus on results, not effort.
Nick’s article gave some great tips that I hope he does not mind that I share with you.
1. Patience: You are not fishing, you are the baiter, the caster (sometimes), the un-
tangler all the time.
2. Snacks: For you and your fishing buddy (get their favorites).
3. Do not force them: Let them play in the bait bucket or the live well, let them splash in
the water. Remember YOU are NOT fishing.
4. Gear: Buy them their own fishing pole, tackle box, stock it with their tackle and fishing
tools. Let them order the bait at the bait shop.
5. Lures/ Artificials: If they are anything like my boys were and some still are, throw it
out and reel it back in (casting practice) they may catch a fish.
6. Let them do it: Casting, Baiting, Reeling, help them when they ask. Offer to help.
When I taught my boys, I wanted to fish, I wanted to catch, I wanted to eat fish.
Fortunately, all three boys have survived to this point at least. They have become
myfishing buddies even though they are now grown and starting their own life.
However, after reading Nick’s article; I think back to the time that I truly missed with my
boys and I do not want that for you. When I become a grandfather (not any time soon) I
hope that I remember Nick’s article and listen to my own advice.