First Cast

Bulls-Eye

In todays Kids Kast, we are going to have a little fun off the water. You do not have to be in a boat to cast, and you will not have to even have to have fishing on your mind for todays topic.

Did you ever play the game of horse (with a basketball) as a kid? Why not take that same idea, and instead of a basketball and goal use a fishing rod and some homemade targets? This is a game you can play with your own kids—or with several neighborhood children. The first step is to position several targets throughout the yard. Make sure that you include simple targets such as hula-hoops and progress up to hard items such as a coffee can. In-between items might include a frisbee or a shoe-box. For the advanced (or just ambitious) casters, try adding obstacles that could mimic conditions you would find on the water. Place that coffee can underneath a small table. This would imitate having to cast underneath a dock.

After all your targets are in place, you will need a rod, reel, casting plug and maybe something to keep score with. Casting plugs are available at most tackle stores, but they aren’t necessary to play. Just make sure that whatever you use on your line has the hook cut off. This is most important if playing with children or if you have pets in the yard. You could also tie a washer on the end of your line instead of a lure.

If you need a refresher on the game of horse—here goes! The first person casts to the target of their choice. If they hit the target then the next person has to successfully make that same cast—or they receive the letter H. Keep taking turns and once you’ve spelled H-O-R-S-E, you are out! Last one still in the game wins.

If you aren’t interested in playing horse, but still like the idea of casting in your yard—these targets are a great way to perfect your casting skills. Fishing is no different than any other sport; practice pays off in the end. There are basketball players who might shoot 1,000 baskets in a weekend of practice. The precision with which you cast can have a huge impact on your productivity on the water. Keep casting and keep catching!

• Season 01: Episode 06