I recently had a day full of charters with children. Having raised two great sons around saltwater myself, I get great pleasure when I hear the cheers and see the smiles when children catch fish on the Egret.

Fishing with children can be a challenge because their curiosity and attention span always seems to get the best of them. It is important to keep them occupied by sharing what you are doing, why you are doing it and what's happening around them. When I fish I always try to share my techniques and stories and tips so the children will stay entertained while waiting on "the bent rod." Here are some tips that could make that family fishing trip more successful and less stressful:

Find productive fishing first - Any child will become bored if you start the day by spending a couple of hours trying to find a spot where the fish are biting. Locate good water structures and know the best techniques for catching saltwater species. Save the scouting or experimentation until later, after your child is hooked on fishing. Your child must catch fish on the early trips. Size and type aren't nearly as important as having fun hooking a fish.

Teach the basics - Let the child create his or her own experience. Some adults do everything for the child and this can be a mistake. Encourage children to do as much for themselves as possible. Take the time to explain why you are tying a certain hook or lure on the line. Younger children will have trouble mastering a well tied knot on monofilament line, but they can pick out brightly colored lures or certain bait. Kids need to develop self-reliance and putting their own bait on the hook is a start. But don't force the issue. Some kids don't want to touch slimy bait. This will change with time and experience.

Setting the hook - An eager child will likely lose a fish or two by setting the hook too hard. Teaching children to set the hook quickly but gently will improve their technique. I always try to use circle hooks and I discuss the reason with children before the bait hits the water. Remember to let them land a fish, even if you have to set the hook and hand them the rod. Coaching them through the "battle" is important and it lets them learn.

Choose fishing equipment wisely - Ultra-light rods and reels are excellent for children. You can purchase less expensive versions that, no doubt, will be damaged or destroyed eventually. If you let the child use the gear on a successful fishing trip, you will be surprised at how prized that fishing rig will become. Note that some kids still want to learn with a spin cast reel. Find a small, inexpensive tackle box and stock it with a few jigs, bobbers, hooks, weights, and other neat stuff. Teach your child to neatly arrange and organize. Early attention to organization will pay off in enjoyable trips for as long as the child fishes.

Obtain properly fitting life vest - I am a huge proponent of safe boating and recommend that all children, regardless of age or size of the boat, wear a life jacket. Make sure the vest is correct for the child and meets the regulations. Visit www.dnr.sc.gov for more information.

Pay attention to the weather - Choose the days you want to your child fishing wisely. Avoid windy, rainy or cold days. Blue bird days are the best for the best childhood memories. Remember to take extra jackets for weather changes. Be mindful of the sun and make sure sun block is applied prior to leaving the dock.

Know when to leave - Boredom in youth may strike at any time - even when the fish are biting. Forcing children to stay out longer than their attention span allows is a good way to turn them off from fishing forever. More than one youngster on the trip will likely end up horsing around or making unnecessary noise. That child who is scaring the fish away will someday become a serious and dedicated angler.

Chances are good that you will spend many enjoyable hours on the water with this fisherman you created. Remarkably, the child you take fishing may take you fishing someday. You both will always remember the smiles and memories.

Till Next Tide,

Captain Fred Bricketto

Carolina Backwaters