(Photo provided)

Parents have been hooking me in with lots of questions about safety tips for what they need to know if they take their children fishing this summer. Well, let me take the bait and provide some information on this topic.

Have clearly defined rules before you head out, such as what should and should not be touched during your fishing adventure and how to handle fishing hooks with care. Barbless hooks may be best when fishing with young children since they are easier to remove if they do get snagged onto a child. Many weights are made with lead, so you may not want your child or you handling those weights without proper glove protection.

Practice safe casting before you go fishing with your children, including having them look around and behind themselves before they cast.

Make sure children have the proper gear. This starts with protective eye wear, meaning polarized sunglasses to protect the eyes from the sun’s rays and to protect the eyes from errant casts with hooks and lures. Polarized glasses may even make it easier to spot fish in the water. Sun protection is also essential with adequate sunscreen and a brimmed hat, as is good hydration before, during and after you return from fishing — especially in hot summer weather. Insect repellent is also a must.

Provide fishing gear for your young child that is lightweight. A simple ultra-light rod and a spinning or spin cast reel with trigger is a good introductory setup for a young person learning to fish. Clothing should also be breathable for smaller children. Be prepared to dress your child in layers since mornings and evenings can be damper and chillier on the water than afternoons.

If fishing in a boat, kayak or canoe, or even if around the shoreline or dock, children should be wearing personal flotation devices. If fishing from shore, remind children to stay close to you and always in sight. Children should never wade into water that may have undercurrents or an unknown bottom.

Bring a first-aid kit with you, as well as a whistle for you and your child in case you start to get separated from each other on the banks or in the water itself. Have a cellphone with you or a marine radio if on a boat. These are essential should an injury occur and you need to seek help immediately.

Hopefully reeling in these tips will ensure that you are able to tackle any concerns you may have when it comes to making fishing with your child a safe and fun family experience.

—

Lewis First, MD, is chief of pediatrics at the University of Vermont Children’s Hospital and chair of the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Vermont’s Larner College of Medicine. You can also catch “First with Kids” weekly on WOKO 98.9FM and NBC5.