Statistics

• The state of Pennsylvania encourages children to become involved in the sport of fishing; in fact, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is very concerned with declining rates of youth fishing. From 1995 to 2000, the number of Pennsylvania children ages 6 to 15 who participated in fishing fell from 41 percent to 35 percent. To combat this trend, the Fish and Boat Commission has implemented a series of events to involve children in the sport of fishing and has provided monetary grants to clubs and organizations that encourage fishing with kids.
  
  

Places to Fish

• Although supervised children may fish anywhere in Pennsylvania, there are certain locations that have been designated solely for use by the young or disabled. Twenty-three creeks and ponds in 17 counties have such areas. In addition, state parks have many fishing streams that are available to people of all ages and abilities.
  
  

Legality

• In all fishable bodies of water in Pennsylvania, children may fish under the supervision of adults who do not possess fishing licenses. An adult without a fishing license may assist a child with baiting hooks, casting, retrieving the line and unhooking fish; however, the adult must obtain a license if they plan to set a hook (actively catch fish).
  
  

Fish and Bait

• The easiest types of fish for children to catch in Pennsylvania are pan fish and catfish. The use of live bait attracts children's interest, but pieces of cheese or corn may be used if the children are scared to fish with worms or minnows. Additionally, children may enjoy selecting a small, colorful lure to attach to the end of their line. The use of bobbers helps young children to easily determine when a fish has bit their hook.
  
  

Guidelines for Fishing with Children

• The memories of a good fishing trip can last a lifetime, but a bad experience could have negative effects on a child. The success of a fishing trip depends on the happiness of the child. If she enjoys herself and is encouraged by her adult supervisor, she is more likely to return for another day of fishing. By focusing on making fishing a fun experience for children, adults can facilitate the growth of the next generation of outdoor sportsmen.