Take a Kid Fishing? Don't Forget Your Dad
In the Ontario Fisherman, the editor and field staff have constantly promoted what we feel to be worthwhile ideals for Ontario's two-million-plus anglers i.e. commitments to catch-and-release sportfishing, support for fish-rearing and hatchery projects, opposition to gill netting and incidental catches, and the belief that fishing should be a shared, family experience. In my own fishing, I have tried to put into practice a "Take a Kid Fishing" attitude.
Why? That's simple. As a tot, as soon as I had mastered the simple toilet-training routine and graduated to the bailing-can approach, my Dad began taking me fishing. In the late fifties, fishing Lake Erie in its heyday, Dad saw to it that my brothers and I had the necessary tools-of-the-trade to go fishing- whenever the mood struck us (and the lake let us)- rods 'n' reels, tackle, bait and a small boat and motor. But he just didn't turn us loose on the lake to wreak havoc. Systematically, Dad began educating us on the important skills we would need to ensure safety, success, and enjoyment. First came the boating course- rules, safety, handling and control, navigating, etc.
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Once we demonstrated competence and good judgment, the fishing program followed- rigging, baits, hotspots, fish-fighting and landing technique, trolling basics, and much more. Secret fishin' songs were sung without a thought to the quality of voice or coherence of the lyrics. Afterwards, long fish-cleaning sessions were followed by memorable fish fries (supervised by Mom) back at the cottage. Perch, black bass, blue pickerel, yellows, sheephead, and silver bass- we learned to value them all- for sport or food.
Mostly, though, we found enjoyment in the relaxation and camaraderie of fishing together. Great, old photos- now treasured memories- attest to our total preoccupation with fishing during the summer break. Some even offer proof of many, successful outings. With Dad in the boat, we were assured of success- he instilled a positive, confident feeling at each outing. Take a kid fishing? He knew when and, I suspect, why.
When the family cottage was sold and a new, lakeside home was bought, it seemed only natural that priority be given to checking out the fishing and locating new hotspots. Didn't take him long either. By this time, sons were grown, but grandsons came along to share Dad's love of the lake- and fishing. Three generations in a car-topper really brought out the best in Dad- the best stories, a little reminiscing, the old songs- the good, old days.
It was Dad who took us on our first-ever, "remote" fishing trip- Lake Kippawa, P.Q.- and, even though he did get a little "disoriented" going in (and lost one night), that trip is the most memorable of all, The fishing wasn't too great, but that didn't matter- we had more to learn, and lots to laugh about. Now old enough for the pub, we saw another side of fishing- fraternity. Dad's technique was subtle, yet effective and enduring.
Fortunately, we were able to share a few such trips with Dad over recent summers. "Outta school and outta here", he once said to me in anticipation of a planned trip. He could hardly wait- we could hardly wait . Dad made it fun. It didn't matter to him that he wouldn't be home for his own birthday.
Dad passed away recently, unexpectedly- too soon. This summer we had planned a fly-in-what would have been Dad's first-ever. In addition to our sorrow and loss, there is disappointment. He so loved the outdoors- scenery, fishing, hiking, birds and wildlife- this trip might have been his once-in-a-lifetime fishing trip. My brothers, my son and I will probably still go- Dad would have insisted that we go anyways, and bring him back "just a taste". It won't be the same though, it can't be.
Now that it's my turn to initiate my son to the "remote" fishing experience, I wonder if I am ready. Can I do what my Dad had done- get a kid hooked on fishing for a lifetime?
To readers planning fishing trips, let me suggest this- take your Dad (or Grampa) fishing. Many of you probably already do just that. Many of the rest of you probably owe Dad (and yourselves) a son-father trip. The rewards can be far more satisfying than you might possibly imagine. I was twice-blessed- my Dad took his kids fishing regularly. Secondly, I had the good fortune of being able to return the favour on a few occasions. I know I will never forget Dad or the things we shared- like fishing.
Guys, take your Dad fishing- this year. You'll be glad you did- and, possibly, sorry if you don't.
For my Dad, Jack Rivers
This article was orginally written just after the passing of my father in 1986. The message of this article is as relevant today as it was then.
Online since 1998 by long-time OFM field editor, Bill Rivers, the Ontario Fisherman is now taking on a new look, but remains committed to showcasing "the best of Ontario sportfishing".
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