Top Tips for Fishing with Kids Under

aking little kids fishing is a bit like packing for a family holiday. You think you’re ready, then suddenly you’re drowning in snacks, nappies, spare clothes and questions about when they can go home. But it is also one of the best ways to get them outdoors, teach patience and spend proper time together.

Fishing with under 5s does not have to be chaos. With a bit of planning and the right gear, you can make it fun for everyone (yes, even you). Here are our tried-and-tested tips for surviving and actually enjoying fishing with little ones.

1. Keep it Short and Sweet

Under 5s do not have much of an attention span. If you are planning a full-day mission, lower those expectations. Aim for an hour or two tops. Choose spots close to home or where you can bail quickly if things go south. Think jetty, local creek or easy-access beach.

The golden rule: quit while you are ahead. End the trip before the meltdown, not after.

2. Safety First

Little kids and water means you need to stay alert. A few non-negotiables:

• Life jackets that fit properly.
• Hats, sunnies and sunscreen. Slip, slop, slap still rules.
• A first aid kit in the tackle bag.
• Clear rules like “stay behind this line” or “always sit when near the edge.”

Do not forget yourself. Kids copy what they see. If you are skipping sun safety, they will too. Throw on your hat and long sleeves.

3. Pick the Right Spot

Not every fishing spot is kid-friendly. You want somewhere:

• Close to parking.
• With shade or room to rig up an umbrella.
• Toilets nearby.
• Calm waters instead of surf or strong currents.

Piers, jetties and estuaries usually work well. Bonus points if there is a playground close by for when fishing loses its sparkle.

4. Pack More Snacks Than You Think

Fishing trips live and die on snacks. Hungry kids equal cranky kids. Pack a mix of easy grab-and-go food: fruit, muesli bars, sandwiches and crackers. Always bring water bottles.

Pro tip: keep a few “special” snacks they only get while fishing. It is instant bribery when patience runs out.

5. Give Them Their Own Gear

Kids love feeling part of it. A cheap kids’ rod or even a handline makes a huge difference. It does not have to be fancy. The point is they are not just watching, they are involved. Show them how to cast, let them reel in, even if it is only seaweed.

If they are old enough, give them their own little tackle box. It could be filled with hooks, sinkers or even pretend gear. Kids will happily sit rearranging things for ages if they think it belongs to them.

6. Make It About More Than Fish

If you only measure success by how many fish you catch, you will probably leave disappointed. For kids, the fun is in the whole experience.

• Spotting crabs or starfish.
• Collecting shells or cool rocks.
• Watching the pelicans squabble for scraps.
• Skipping stones or poking around in the shallows.

The fish are a bonus.

7. Dress Them for Success

Comfortable, sun safe clothing is key. Long sleeves, hats that stay on and shoes that can handle water. Do not forget spares, toddlers have a gift for finding mud.

This is why we made Fish Feeder gear practical. Breathable fabrics, sun protection and for mums, breastfeeding zips that do not get in the way. Looking after yourself matters too.

8. Choose the Right Time of Day

Think like a parent, not a pro fisherman. Early mornings or late afternoons might be prime fishing times, but they are also nap and meltdown zones. Mid-morning or early evening after dinner often works better for young kids. Less pressure means more chance of everyone enjoying it.

9. Manage Expectations

Your three-year-old probably is not going to sit quietly waiting for a bite. That is fine. Celebrate the small wins: holding the rod, spotting a fish in the water, not falling in. The goal is not the catch, it is the memories.

And if you end up catching nothing? Still call it a success if you had laughs, fresh air and everyone made it back in one piece.

10. Have a Back-Up Plan

Always have an escape hatch. It could be a playground nearby, a stash of bubbles in the bag, or the promise of hot chips on the way home. A fishing trip with kids is less about patience and more about distraction.

FAQs About Fishing with Kids

What is the best age to start?

As soon as they can sit still long enough to hold a rod, you are good to go. For most families, that is around three to four years old.

Do I need kids’ life jackets?

Yes. They are not optional. Make sure they fit snugly and are designed for their weight.

How do I keep them entertained when they get bored?

Bring back-up activities: colouring books, toy cars, bubbles or a bucket and spade. Anything that buys you ten more minutes of peace.

What is the best bait for kids?

Keep it simple. Prawns, bread or corn kernels work fine. The goal is not a trophy fish, it is keeping them interested.

How do I handle meltdowns?

You do not. They happen. Take a break, offer food or switch activities. If it all falls apart, pack up and call it a day.

Final Thoughts

Fishing with little kids is messy, unpredictable and sometimes feels like more hassle than it is worth. But it is also magic. You are building memories, teaching them about the outdoors and sneaking in some time away from screens.

Keep trips short, stay sun safe and pack more snacks than you think possible. The rest will sort itself out.

👉 Want gear that makes mum life easier while you are out there? Check out our Kids Fish Feeder’s range of sun safe, practical clothing.