7 reasons to take the kids fishing

Looking for a fun – and screen-free – way to entertain the kids? Then why not take your family fishing?

You might think fishing is something you do on your own. But in reality, it’s a brilliant family activity and perfect for a fun day out.

The best thing is, it doesn’t matter if you catch anything or not … your kids will love being outdoors and learning a new skill with you. 

If you fancy giving it a go, you’ll need a fishing licence before you hit your local waters. It’s super easy to apply for the licence and they're free for children under 17.

Here are seven reasons to take your family fishing:

1. Fishing can make you all feel happier

We all know it can be stressful juggling work and kids. So give yourself some calm family time by going fishing. 

There’s scientific evidence that being near water for any amount of time lowers your stress and anxiety levels.

And according to the Angling Trust, the NHS even use fishing as a way to treat anxiety and depression.

Not only that, being outdoors means you’ll all be getting a dose of Vitamin D which is vital for healthy bones.

2. It’s screen-free time

Are your kids glued to their phones, games consoles and tablets? They’re not the only ones … a 2019 study found children are spending a massive 23 hours a week on their devices.

Fishing is a great ‘unplugged’ activity for your kids. Get them to leave their devices at home and instead, focus on the lake or pond in front of them. Bliss.

3. There are fishing spots close to where you live

You don’t need to travel far to try fishing. Instead, there are a surprising number of fishing spots around the UK, including lakes, rivers and canals. 

And chances are, there’s one very close to you … which means no long (and stressful) car journey with the kids. Phew.

The Angling Trust have put together an interactive map showing all the fishing spots in the UK. Simply pop in your postcode to find a fishing venue near you.

4. It’s an exciting outdoor activity for the whole family

Why not make a full day of it by packing up your lunch and enjoying it by a lovely fishing spot?

Your kids will love having their sandwiches by the water and can help you look out for any passing fish.

And don’t worry if you don’t catch anything. Just spending time on the river-bank gives them and you a chance to spot wildlife, hunt bugs, watch clouds and enjoy the thrill that one of you may just catch a fish.

Remember, always keep a close eye on your kids when you’re near water.

5. Fishing can boost your child’s confidence

There’s a lot of technique involved in fishing. 

And as your child gets to grips with it, they’ll get a confidence boost as they land their first catch. (Especially if you don’t catch anything. Grrrr.)

Not only that, fishing also teaches your child (and you!) important life lessons including patience and concentration as you wait for the fish to take a bite.

6. Fishing can improve your child’s coordination

Fishing is not just great for your mind. It also has surprising physical benefits, including improving your child’s coordination and balance.

They need good hand-eye coordination to catch a fish … and great balance to land it.

Just don’t be surprised if, when they get the hang of it, your kids are much better at fishing than you. Eek.

7. It’s easy to get started

You don’t need loads of complicated (or expensive) gear to go fishing with the kids. The Angling Trust have put together a handy guide of the beginner tackle to use, including a landing net and bait.

And make sure you apply for your fishing licence. If your children are under 13, they don’t need a licence. If your teen is aged 13 to 16 they’ll need a licence but it’s totally free.

Anyone over 17 needs a licence to go fishing: a one-day licence costs from just £6 or a year-long licence costs from £30 depending on what you are fishing for.