How to Keep Fishing After Having a Child
As of the end of 2022, I became a proud father. And as we all know, having a baby takes up a lot of time. My fishing time is now limited as more responsibilities creep into life. However, I have found ways to continue pursuing my passion for fishing while being a parent. In this blog post, I will share some tips on how to make time for fishing while balancing the demands of parenthood.
Hike and Scout Fishing Spots
One thing that I have done, which I wish I started sooner, is hiking more. Specifically, I hike around rivers and lakes to scout fishing spots. I strap my little buddy into a chest carrier or sometimes let him walk his own way down the trail. This not only allows me to spend time with my son but also helps me discover new fishing spots. I have found some of my new favorite spots through these scouting expeditions, and even my little brother pulled his personal best fish from one of them.
Hiking around fishing spots and exploring new areas has been a great way to enjoy nature with my son. It keeps me engaged with him and prevents me from getting sidetracked by fishing. We cover more ground and explore more of the trails and shoreline, creating lasting memories together. Additionally, this time spent scouting allows me to plan my fishing trips more strategically. I come back with an attack plan and fish the lake with the intel from my hiking adventures.
Involve Your Child in the Fishing Experience
Occasionally, I bring my son’s little bag chair and set him up near me while I fish. He can watch me fish and enjoy his snacks. This way, I can usually get 15-30 minutes of fishing in before he gets tired of watching and wants to explore. It’s a great way to introduce him to the world of fishing and nurture his interest. Every time he sees me catch a fish, his eyes light up, and I can tell he’s starting to get hooked on the sport already.
However, the most important thing when I bring him on any outdoor adventure is to ensure that he has a good time and learns to love the outdoors. It’s not just about me catching fish or finding new fishing spots; it’s about teaching my son to enjoy and appreciate nature. By instilling this love for the outdoors in him at a young age, I hope that we can continue to spend quality time together as he grows older.
Conclusion
Being a parent doesn’t mean giving up on your hobbies and passions. With a little creativity and planning, you can continue to enjoy fishing while also being there for your child. Hiking and scouting fishing spots is a great way to spend time with your little one while discovering new fishing locations. Additionally, involving your child in the fishing experience can help foster their love for the outdoors. Remember, it’s not just about catching fish; it’s about creating lasting memories and nurturing a shared appreciation for nature.
