Fishing has always been somewhat of a misunderstood pastime. For those unfamiliar with the activity, it seems pointless and unexciting. It’s difficult to introduce people to angling, and even more difficult to make them want to go on their own.
I can personally attest to the difficulty of trying to teach somehow how, and why, to fish. I find that getting them there isn’t a problem, keeping them there is the real dilemma. Particularly to young people, fishing is boring. They just don’t understand why we’d want to stand in a stream for hours at a time, throwing bait at something that may or may not be there. If you plan to take on the difficult task of introducing someone to fishing, here are some tips:
• Explain why and where – Even before you go, be sure to tell them why you have a good chance at catching fish that day. Maybe mention the time you caught 10 fish in an hour where you’re going, or how it’s your favorite all-time spot.
• Keep it moving – Do not, under any circumstances, stay in one spot longer than a half hour if nothing is biting. Not only will they want to leave, but they’ll probably never want to go back.
• Keep it fun – There’s a place for seriousness in angling, and it’s not when a beginner is standing next to you. Play the fun angle at all times. Even during snags and break-offs, laugh it off and keep it fun.
• Put the rod in their hand – One of the oldest sales techniques is to “put it in their hand”. Let them try to cast and reel. Show them that the rod, reel, and line are all working in tandem, thus the difficulty, thus the fun. Be lenient and understanding when they hook the telephone wire above you, twice!
• Don’t show off – You want to look like you know what you’re doing but don’t act like you’re the best ever. Keep the technical jargon to a minimum as they won’t understand it anyway. Be humble even during constant success.
• Catch a fish – Easier said than done, but if you can hook on to a fish, they will get to see what it’s all about. Give them the rod and let them feel the pull. Instead of constant direction, turn away advice when they ask for help. Say, “It’s up to you now. Try to get him in and I’ll land him.” If/when they successfully reel it in, they’ll probably feel happy, proud, and ready to do it again.
Fishing can be fun for all ages and genders. And it really is fun to share the experience with someone else. So give a try, and maybe you’ll end up with a new fishing buddy.
Great article Brent!