Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - 44
Mentoring
a Youth
for Panfish
Fishing
by Jessica Welshans
44
photo-Chad Foster
Dig out a cartoon character rod and a tiny tackle box,
because it is time to take a kid fishing.
There is no better way to introduce a child to panfish
fishing than by mentoring him or her. Bank fishing on a
farm pond and fishing from a boat in open water are great
ways to get started. Choose the right spot and time of year,
and young anglers will be reeling in hungry panfish one
after another.
John Butler, Lock Haven, has mentored kids in fishing as
long as he can remember. Predominantly, he enjoys panfish
fishing himself, whether the water is open or frozen.
It is about getting kids to enjoy fishing-and the
outdoors in general.
"The more you get kids out, the more fun they will
have, and you will, too," said Butler. "In general, panfish
fishing is better certain times of the year. Even if you are
not targeting a certain species, look at the time you are
going out."
Mentoring kids for fishing can be difficult. The best
way for everyone to enjoy their day is to put the kids
on fish.
"When the bite is good, Bluegills can be caught over and
over and can be easily fished. Often, you can sight-fish for
Bluegills off the bank. When Bluegills are up on the bank
spawning, it allows for the perfect opportunity to catch
these fish," said Butler. Have your fishing spots picked out
for the mentee, so you can plan on a bite, and be prepared
to help take fish off the hook.
"The first time I took a daughter's friend fishing, we
were up at the dam catching crappies. They were up on the
bank spawning. Every cast, she caught a fish," said Butler.
Some panfish like nightcrawlers, but Butler uses plastic
lures. For him, when fishing with a kid, plastic lures are
easier and less messy.
"Plastic lures are more durable and last longer. It is
better to catch a fish, throw it back and not have to rebait
the hook," said Butler.
Bank fishing and boat fishing can be just as exciting for
kids and mentors.
"When a kid gets into the boat before he or she starts
fishing, I have him or her practice casting and techniques,"
said Butler.
When boat fishing with a kid, no matter the type or size
of the boat, safety comes first. "Follow safety protocol,"
said Butler. "Have life jackets available for everyone."
Butler has even retrofitted his boat, so the seats are
lower and kids can sit further down the hull.
Getting kids out to fish is important to the future of
the outdoors.
"I am a better angler because of the kids. Kids always
practice, and learn more every day. I teach kids what I
have learned and make it fun for them," said Butler.
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater * September/October 2019
www.gonefishingpa.com
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Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019
Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019
Contents
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - Cover1
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - Cover2
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - Contents
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - 4
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - 5
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - 6
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - 7
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - 8
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - 9
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - 10
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - 11
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - 12
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - 13
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - 14
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Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - 21
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Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - Cover3
Pennsylvania Angler & Boater - September/October 2019 - Cover4
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