A Kid's First Fishing Trip — How to Set It Up Right

Published April 8, 2026 · 6 min read · Outdoor Adventures BC

The difference between a kid who hates fishing forever and a kid who asks to go again is almost always the setup of the first trip. Here's how to get it right.

Keep it short

Three to four hours is the sweet spot for kids under 10. Go longer and the fun curve starts pointing down. Half-day charters exist for exactly this reason.

Morning trips are better

Kids are fresher. Fish are often more active. You're back in time for lunch and a nap.

Manage expectations

Fishing isn't always action-packed. Tell the kid in advance: "We'll see some beautiful water, maybe see some eagles, and hopefully catch some fish." Not "We'll definitely catch lots!" — the Okanagan has bad days.

Snacks. More than you think.

A well-fed kid is a patient kid. Pack twice what you'd bring. The fridge is onboard.

Let them do the work

Once a fish is on, hand the rod to the kid. Don't hijack their fight. Even if it takes 10 minutes and the hook pulls — they land it (or lose it) themselves.

The photo matters

Get a proper photo of the kid with their first fish. Held right, smiling, fish in focus. It's a picture they'll look at for 30 years.

What the boat brings

Our Kingfisher is genuinely set up for families — heated cabin if they get cold, real bathroom, enclosed deck space. On our charters, kids under 16 don't need a licence.

When to go bigger

Once the kid's 12+ and has done a half-day or two, consider a full-day trip. That's when we'll target fish and switch species mid-day.

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Ready to put this into practice? Book a Kelowna fishing charter with Outdoor Adventures BC — we'll rig it all for you.