Plan your trip to some place that's easily accessible and that

is sure to produce some catching . . . a city park pond stocked

with trout or panfish, a fishing pier, or even a pay-per-catch pond or

lake that's heavily stocked. If you're totally in doubt as to where to

go fishing, call your local state game and fish department offices.

Explain to them your desire to introduce your youngster to

the sport of fishing. They should be more than happy to point you

in the right direction.

"My first fish was caught off an ocean pier, at age 4," says

Gordon Holland, cofounder of the Hooked on Fishing

International. "I don't remember too many details about the trip now, but it

was a great experience and I've been hooked ever since."

When you plan that first trip for a youngster, it's very important

to make it a short, but exciting adventure. A child's span of

attention can be fleeting, so make it only a two or three hour outing .

. . long enough to catch some fish, but not long enough for the

child to become bored.. Usually a morning trip is preferable.

The fish bite better and the kids have more fun. Try to pick a sunny

day with moderate temperatures . . . and don't forget to take

along some sunscreen!

Remember, catching is the key. Target your outing for the

easiest-to-catch species . . . bluegill, crappie, planted trout, etc.

Don't expect that youngster to enjoy sitting there trying to catch a

bass on a plastic worm. A bunch of worms or nightcrawlers, or

the numerous prepared trout floating baits are the answer to

productive fishing for the smaller species. Most any fish will hit these

live baits, and there's nothing more exciting to a child than

having something tug on his or her fishing line, and feel that vibration

of the fishing rod, or to just see the bobber disappear

underwater from the efforts of a feisty sunfish. Herein lies the magic of

your child's first fishing experience!

Speaking of memories . . . don't forget your camera. The

pictures you will take on this day will likely become priceless

mementos. If at all possible, try to get a couple of shots of the two of

you together.

In our next installment, Part 2, The Journey, will feature

information on tackle, bait, bobbers, snacks, etc., surely designed

to make it an enjoyable outing for the youngster. You're building

a foundation for your future fishing partner. Do it right!

[For more information on the Kids Derby programs, or to

become a host of an event in 1999, contact Hooked on Fishing

International, P.O. Box 249, Disney, OK 74340. The program is

offered free throughout the country and is sponsored by some of

the nation's finest companies including American Rod & Gun,

Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, Berkley Inc., Gator Grip,

Roads To Adventure Magazine, Southwest Airlines, TNN

Outdoors, Tracker Marine, and Zebco.]

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