There are plenty of fishing derbies at this time of the year. Community, club, and state sponsored fishing events are a great way to introduce kids to fishing. In Bozeman, the Rotary Club is sponsoring Free Kids Fishing event at the East Gallatin Pond. This fun fishing day is on Ma 17th. The fishing fun is for kids ages 4-12 and starts at 9am.
Many kids will catch their very first fish at events like this. The East Gallatin Pond has trout, perch, bass, suckers, bluegills, and plenty of fun. Thes events often offer loaner rods, snacks, goodie bags, and expert help.
Getting kids hooked on fishing is a lifetime addiction. This outdoor activity will motivate children to fish and have fun. Fishing is also about rules, limits, regulations, skills, and making friendships. These are all things that parents want their kids to learn.
When your kid catches their first fish, consider making a Fish Print of their catch. Many anglers consider a Fish Print an excellent way to display bragging rights. In Japan, “gyotakus”, are a popular piece of artwork. You need a minimum of materials and fish.
Flat fish work best and print well. They have bigger scales that will show up when inked. Waterproof, black, printers’ ink is a traditional dye. Other colors will also work well. Use a cotton ball or foam paint brush to coat one side of your fish. Toothpicks will hold the fins open. Lay the fish onto a board or newspaper.
Before painting the fish, rinse with salt water and use a paper towel to pat it dry.
Coat the fish with the ink/paint
Don’t paint the eye
Let the fish set for a few minutes before using the paper or t-shirt for a copy.
Press the t-shirt or rice paper onto the painted side of the fish. Gently lift the shirt/paper away.
Use a small paint brush to enhance the transfer. Now you can paint the eye. Adding other colors is fun.
You can also use a permanent marker pen to add any other details such as the date, angler’s name, or place the fish was caught.
Keep in mind that this fish printing is not for Catch and Release fish. Rinse the ink off the fish at the end and filet it for dinner.
Wear your catch with pride!
Montana Grant
