Go fish! Here’s a complete guide to fishing with kids in Georgia

Chelsea Madden

Warmer days are ahead, Georgia. And that means plenty of fun in the sun.

If you’re a parent, this also means peeling the kids away from the screens and getting them outside.

If you’re short on ideas for outdoor activities, we’ve got you covered.

Just pack the tackle box and grab a pole – it’s time to go fishing!

Kobi Cross and her uncle Willie Mobley fish during the annual Kids Fishing Derby Saturday at Javors Lucas Lake.
Kobi Cross and her uncle Willie Mobley fish during the annual Kids Fishing Derby Saturday at Javors Lucas Lake.

Fish-n-Learn Programs

Don’t know where to start? Well, this is a good spot for you.

If your kids are ages 8-15 and they want to learn more about fishing, they can now take courses at the Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center in Mansfield, Georgia.

There are three different levels of the course: beginner, intermediate and advanced.

The beginner course (level 1) covers the basics of fishing, equipment, casting and knot-tying;

The intermediate course (level 2) focuses on bass fishing and lure types;

And the advanced course (level 3) covers different types of fishing, like fly fishing and surf fishing.

The courses cost $120 per person and include lodging, guide, education and food. You can register your child online or by calling 770-784-3059.

The next course for beginners will be April 28-30. Another beginner class will be held in the fall, Oct. 6-8. Higher-level courses have not been scheduled for 2023, but will be offered next spring. When the calendar is updated, the course dates will be listed online.

Tips for fishing with children

While fishing is often an activity enjoyed alone, it can be especially fun with children. Watching them learn and succeed might even be funner than catching the big one. However, it doesn’t come without a learning curve – and perhaps some patience.

Here are some tips when fishing with kids, courtesy of the Georgia Wildlife Division:

  • Keep it easy. Choose simple tackle, bait and techniques. Fish for a species that is plentiful and easy to catch. Your goal should be to keep their rod bent as much as possible. The more interesting, colorful and unique the fish, the more excited they will be.

  • Keep it short. Marathon days are not what they need. Try to find fishing spots close to home that don’t require long car or boat rides.

  • Keep them covered. Use plenty of sunscreen and protective clothing. Try not to make anything about the experience painful or unpleasant.

  • Keep them happy. Take lots of snacks including a treat that usually is not allowed at home. Snacks can help break up moments of frustration and will keep the kids interested.

  • Keep your cool. Expect to re-bait hooks and take out line tangles and knots all day. This is their day, not yours.

  • Teach them what you know. Tell them about birds, plants or fish. Children remember these things and find it interesting. You can even read to them about fish.

  • Keep a few fish for dinner. Keep fish within the legal catch limits and never keep more than you plan to eat. These lessons mold responsible and conscientious anglers helping to ensure the future of our fishery resources.

Places to take children fishing

Middle GA has several places to go fishing with kids, including public areas such as Ocmulgee, McDuffie or Flat Creek.

There is also a Go Fish Education Center in Perry, Georgia that has wildlife exhibits, fishing simulators and educational displays for children.

“First Fish” award

If you want to commemorate your child’s first fishing trip or fish caught, there is also a neat way to do so; the Georgia Wildlife Division will create a one-of-a kind certificate just for your child’s experience.

Frame it and hang it on a wall or pin it to the refrigerator as a reminder of all the fun you and your family had. And perhaps as a reminder to plan your next fishing trip together.

Fishing for more? More tips and information can be found on the Georgia Wildlife Division’s website.

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