Part 1

This and my next two columns are going to be different than what you’re used to seeing here.

If you’re a regular reader of this column you’re aware they usually deal with products marketed by Mack’s Lure.  Like I said, this one departs from that format.

You’re going to search for awhile before you find a nicer bunch of people associated with the fishing tackle industry than those who work for the Wenatchee, Washington based company.  If you’re acquainted with them you already know what I’m talking about. 

What I’m saying was true when the company was headed by Ray McPherson.  It still applies today under the guidance and direction of Bob Schmidt.  I mention this because it ties in with the subject of this and my next two columns.  Like me, the good folks at Mack’s Lure know that if you get kids interested in a wholesome recreation like fishing, odds are you’ll keep them away from a whole lot of potential problems in the process.

I’ve been around for awhile.  I was reminded of that early this year when I gave a casting demonstration at an outdoor show in Victoria, Texas.  I always sign my Bass Hall of Fame fishing cards for those who want them following my demonstrations.

One of those who asked for an autographed card was a little boy who said he really wanted to learn how to cast.  He also had a comment and a question.  “Mister,” he said, “you’re really old.  When did you start fishing”?

Get a youngster interested in fishing and you just might keep them away from a whole lot of problems in the process.

“Son,” I replied, “do you remember what you learned in Sunday School about how they found the baby Moses in the bulrushes by the river”?

“Yes sir,” the kid replied, “I remember that.”

“Well son,” I responded, “when they pulled young Moses out of the bulrushes I was right around the corner throwing a spinnerbait into the river.”

For a heartbeat or two I think that little boy wasn’t too sure but what I was telling the truth.  But we both had a good chuckle before our brief time together was over.  I also had opportunity to explain to that youngster and his companions certain details associated with the use of the closed face spinning reel.  I had touched on these details as I always do during my actual casting exhibition.

I share this little story about the closed face spinning reel for a purpose.  The purpose is this: There is no finer tool with which to get young boys or girls into fishing than the closed face spinning reel.  Provided, that is, you know the right way to go about showing them how to use it.

Got a child you want to get interested in fishing?  Then listen up because I can tell you the best way to go about fostering that interest.  Again, my friends at Mack’s Lure are just as interested in that as I am and that’s why they encouraged me to go ahead with this column approach.

How can I be so sure I know the single best way to foster interest in fishing among youngsters?  It’s because of one of the questions that came my way again and again in the countless hours I’ve spent giving casting demonstrations around the country.  That question usually goes something like this: “I want to teach my little boy and girl how to fish. What kind of a reel would you recommend for them to start with?”

My recommendation is the same today as it was darn near half a century ago.  There is no better reel for a child to get a “feel” for casting than the closed-faced spinning reel and a lightweight rod to go with it.  I’m talking now about smaller kids, not those who are old enough to use more sophisticated equipment.

The closed face spinning reel is ideal for getting a little boy or girl into fishing.  But there's a big "if" attached to it.  It won't work unless you know how to teach them to use it properly.

But just saying that a closed-face is best doesn’t tell the whole story.  Not all closed-face reels are the same and there are a couple I especially favor for kids.  One is a Zebco Pro Staff 2010.  The other is a Daiwa Goldcast Model GC80.

I mention these reels primarily because they’re small enough for a child to handle.  Both reels are made in different sizes.  The ones I’ve listed are the smallest and that’s what you’ll want for your kids.  The reel’s small size is important.  There are big closed-faced reels out there that I have a hard time trying to grip comfortably myself.  For a child with small hands it’s next to impossible.

Kids are much the same all over the world.  They're interested in learning how to use the tools associated with fishing if you'll just take the time to show them.  The little Japanese girl I'm showing the closed face spinning reel at an outdoor show in Tokyo was interested.  So were those other Japanese youngsters you see standing in line waiting their turn.

They won’t have that problem with the reels I’ve named.  I teach a technique, and it’s one you should teach your own youngsters, where the line is actually controlled with the forefinger of the left hand.  I’ll give you the exact details on how to do that in my next column.  Watch for it starting December 1st..

  -To Be Continued-