Getting kids involved in fishing and the outdoors with activities like hiking, biking and rafting requires an introduction. The challenge of convincing kids that there’s something far more interesting out there than their cell phones or video games is real, but instilling a love of the outdoors early on can set them up for a lifetime of appreciating what it offers.

Here’s a few tips on how to get kids involved in fishing and the outdoors in a way that is engaging and successful.

Become a role model
Activities like fishing usually require an introduction from someone who knows how to do it. Take a beginner’s approach to showing kids the basics. Be the role model kids can look up to as they learn to appreciate the outdoors and point out the elements that inspire you like the birds and trees or the way the seasons change the landscape from winter through the fall months.

Make it fun
There’s no chance of getting kids to ever fish again or opt for an outdoors activity unless it’s fun. When introducing kids to fishing and new outdoor skills it’s essential that it is enjoyable. This means selecting a location with easy access from a dock or platform and using simple tactics like fishing with a bobber.

Prep for success
Research your local stocked ponds to find ones that are described as kid or family friendly. Many municipalities have urban fishing ponds, and some that only allow kids to fish. Finding a location that gives you the best chance for catching fish is important. Once kids catch that first fish, they are almost always hooked and want to do it again.

Involve kids in the planning
Getting kids involved in the planning and research makes them more engaged in the process. This can be as simple as tasking them to plan the snacks or asking them to help you locate the fishing pond on a map. This engagement builds interest and ownership in the activity.

Keep it simple
The goal for a first outing for kids is just to give them a taste of how enjoyable the outdoors can be, so allow flexibility to let them be kids and explore. Be sure to plan in rest time and snacks or incorporate a picnic under a shade tree. Encourage kids to notice the natural environment around them and provide support for their efforts.

Set up a small tackle box
Giving kids their own small tackle box is a special way to engage them in a new hobby like fishing. Start their box with some basic items and let them select a few things to include like a favorite color of bobber.

Focus on what’s important
Most anglers know that fishing is about much more than just catching fish. Yes, you want kids to catch fish primarily when they are getting started but help them appreciate the other important moments too. They will walk away recognizing that a day of fishing also means spending quality time with others and feeling good after spending time in the fresh air and by the water.

Introducing kids to fishing and the outdoors is a gift they will enjoy for a lifetime and something they will always remember came from you.