Youth Fishing Tips
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Fish Right, The Tread Lightly! Way
Lightfoot’s Tips For Responsible fishing

Travel only in the right places

• Fish only where allowed.
• In trail hiking areas keep your feet the on trails.
• When you step off trail to search for campsites, fishing holes or a nice spot to rest, watch your step and don’t trample plants.
• Travel in waters open to your kind of boat.
• Use signs to help you stay in the right places.
• Be aware—oceans, rivers, and some lakes have strong and dangerous currents.

Respect Animals, Plants, and People

• Don’t chase, scare, feed or try to animals.
• Be aware—oceans, rivers, and some lakes have strong and dangerous currents.
• Catch only what you will eat.
• Always look around you before you cast, and never cast over someone’s head.
• Take care not to damage shorelines and shallow waters where many fish and birds live.
• Keep your noise down, especially around others sharing the water.

Every Time You Go Outdoors: Think Safety, Bring A Friend, And Be Prepared

• Never fish without an adult.
• Always wear a life jacket while riding in a boat or wading in water.
• Don’t stand up in a small boat such as a canoe or rowboat.
• Remember to pack seven essential items: water, food, first aid kit, raincoat or poncho, flashlight, sunscreen, and a whistle.
• Bring along bug spray.
• Always check the weather before fishing.
• Layer your clothes and be prepared for changing temperatures.
• Wear sturdy shoes that grip slippery surfaces.
• Don’t forget your fishing permit.

Always Leave the Outdoors Better than You Found It

• Don’t litter or leave food or trash behind.
• Always pack out used fishing line; it can kill birds, fish, and other wildlife.
• Don’t pick plants or take animals that live in the water.
• Wash your gear after every trip so you won’t spread weed seeds.
• Help protect shorelines: launch boats in the right place.
• Refuel boats on land or at a fuel dock.

Discover How Fun the Outdoors Can Be When You Tread Lightly!

• Keep your parents and rangers happy—follow all the rules.
• You will have more fun if you take care of the outdoors.
• Make the right choice—if you do something wrong others might follow and make more damage.
• Remember the great outdoors is home to me and my friends; treat it with care.

Please email feedback@treadlightly.org for questions or comments about this article.