Most young children tend to carry fishing rods out in front of them like a spear, not safe for them, others or the rod. Teaching safe rod handling is essential for the youngest anglers. Based on years of Hook Kids on Fishing experience, here is a method that is both fun for kids and helps the message stick.

Have the children hold one hand out, palm up with the index finger extended. Now place the first guide of the fishing rod on the tip of the extended finger. Kids are usually surprised to find the fishing rod balances itself perfectly. Now this isn’t a safe way to carry a fishing rod but it demonstrates how balanced a rod is in this position. Instruct the children to grasp the rod a few inches below the guide, holding the rod close to the body, vertical with the reel down. This is the safe way to carry a fishing rod.