There are not too many people complaining about the recent good weather and outdoor opportunities. My six year old grandson is convinced that summer has arrived. These conditions certainly increase the focus about getting outside and taking advantage of every break in the weather.
When it comes to fishing, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is making the most of supporting the idea of youth fishing. There are a few clarifications that are needed in this regard.
First of all, everyone 15 years of age and older must have a license. However, children 14 years of age and under do not need a license. They are required to have a valid catch record card in their possession while fishing for salmon, steelhead, halibut, sturgeon or Dungeness Crab.
Children must actively participate and be able to demonstrate the ability to handle the gear by themselves. They must follow all the rules and restrictions for the particular species and body of water they are engaging. These youth are entitled to the same daily limit as adults. In addition, adults may assist and are not required to have a license if they are not fishing themselves. The children must be present and take part in the entire process.
My experience has been while fishing lakes, with more than one kid, it is going to take my full attention just managing these youngsters. I have resigned myself to the fact it is not about my personal fishing and all about the kids. I think when adults can devote the entire experience to the kids, it imparts a greater and better fishing impartation to the children. They become less fidgety and bored when their adult mentor is pouring into their fishing awareness.
It can be a lot safer as well. There will be less human hook ups and water hazards. When it comes to occupying boats, there are some overlooked safety rules which need to be applied as we begin our summer water experience. First in this regard, all children 12 years or younger must wear approved life jackets while occupying a water vessel which is 19 feet or less. Furthermore, every vessel must have enough approved life jackets aboard for the number of adults occupants. Adhering to theses details makes for a safer outing. It is also the law.
Lake fishing continues to go well. Opening weekend tends to take a toll on fish numbers so the WDFW will be doing some more plants as the summer unfolds. For starters, Lake Aberdeen is scheduled to get 1,000 more rainbows and 100 jumbos this weekend.
In Pacific County, several enhancements will take place in mid-May. Cases Pond obtains 400 rainbows, Mill Creek Pond 200 rainbows, Smog Lake 500 rainbows and Western Lake 500 rainbows. Black Lake will get the largest enhancement of 3,100 rainbows so this lake will definitely have plenty of fish.
All these lakes are excellent kid-friendly fisheries. They are an introduction to fishing which lasts a lifetime. Not to mention the memories created.
