Kids Fishing Checklist

Here's a handy checklist of things to take along when you're planning on taking a youngster fishing.

Here's a handy checklist of things to take along when you're planning on taking a youngster fishing.  These items along with a lot of patience and understanding from the parent, will help make for a most enjoyable adventure for everyone. Please remember one important note, a youngster's safety and comfort should be of utmost importance -- after all, this is a training session for a potential lifelong fishing partner.
1. Life jacket
   This is a must when taking a small youngster near the water and the law requires it in both Texas and Oklahoma.  Dan will certainly provide each kid a Life Jacket: however, if you have one that meets Coast Guard approved standard that your youngster like to wear, you may feel free to bring it.  Dan also strongly encourages parents to have their youngsters take swimming lessons as early as possible.
2. Sunscreen
   Sunscreen is also a must.  One bad sunburn during childhood can double the risk of skin cancer later in life. Use it, and use it often.  Besides, we want the memories of this adventure to be something other than the time he or she got that bad sunburn that lasted for days.
3. Insect repellent
   Always a good idea to have on hand.  Mosquitoes and other stinging, biting bugs love areas around the water just as much as kids do.  Being sometimes well off shore, this is not generally a problem, but being prepared is always a good idea.
4. Sunglasses
   It's been proven that the proper sunglasses can help protect people's eyes from dangerous sunrays, especially youngsters' tender eyes.  It also helps reduce glare off the water, making visibility better.
5. Fishing tackle and bait
   Dan always provided this equipment as part of his service.  This following is reproduced for those times when not fishing with Dan.  It is strongly encouraged that you use the proper sized tackle for a child's small hands.  Dan can help in your decision on this: however, you can get some expert advice to help you pick out the right equipment at most fine fishing tackle stores.  For bait, start young anglers off using worms and a bobber makes good sense!
6. Snacks and drinks
   YOU MUST PROVIDE YOUR OWN snacks and drinks for the trip.  Every kid's likes and dislike are as diverse as the brand names on a grocery self; consequently, parents make sure you bring what your youngster likes and I will provide the cooler to keep it cold.  Never take a youngster fishing without some munchies and something to drink.  Something about being outdoors seems to increase young appetites.
7. Ice chest / cooler
   You will always need a cooler for no other reason than to pack your fish in for the trip home.  Very important, especially during the summer.  This is really great for keeping the drinks cool . . . and the worms alive!
8. Cap or visor
   All kids like to wear a cap or visor.  It's cool . . . and it keeps the sun out of their eyes and off their foreheads.
9. First Aid kit
   Dan always has a first aid kit handy, but to get into a good habit pattern a first aid kit is of utmost importance to always carry with you.  We strongly recommend Johnson & Johnson First Aid Pocket Pals™.  Keep them handy in your car or tackle box.  They're wonderful for scraps and scratches.
10. Stop! Think! Does My child or I have any special needs.
    Time Critical Medicine, Eyewear, Camera (if you want your own pictures -- Dan takes lots of pictures and post them to his website), a towel for cleaning your hands (not necessary but something you might want your own personal one), and any other items of special needs.