Fishing is a great way to encourage children to switch off their screens and enjoy spending quality time in nature. It provides an opportunity for them to relax while learning new practical skills. The excitement of catching their first fish may lead to a healthy life-long pastime.
If you are an experienced angler, it can be easy to take a child fishing - they could just tag along with you. A better approach is to adapt the trip to make it more suitable for them.
Tips for getting started:
Another option is to take advantage of one of the fishing packages available at the Tongario National Trout Centre. They are a popular and convenient way to introduce younger people to fly fishing for trout.
The benefits include:
A variety of packages are available to suit different ages and level of experience. Booking is recommended.
Discover which fishing package would suit you best.
Catfish are an unwanted pest in the Taupō Trout Fishery. However, they can be a good way to nurture an early interest in fishing.
They are found in large numbers in shallow areas such as Tokaanu and Motuoapa and catching them is very easy on basic gear. You can try eating them but if they are not to your taste the family cat will certainly enjoy them!
Tips for catching catfish:
Local fishing tackle stores are an ideal place to get advice on suitable gear to get your kids started.
Visit the Trout Centre and see the freshwater museum, aquarium, hatchery and fishing library, feed wild trout or attend a kids fishing day.