Wilson
Fishing trips are already awesome, but you know what makes them even better when kids are involved? Fishing games! Whether your child is just learning the ropes or you’re looking for fun ways to keep everyone entertained between catches, these lake-based games will make memories that last a lifetime.
Let’s dive into six fishing games to play with kids while at the lake — all easy, fun, and packed with opportunities to bond and learn.
Why Play Fishing Games with Kids?
The Benefits of Outdoor Bonding
Playing games during a lake trip isn’t just about keeping the kids busy. It’s about making connections, building confidence, and creating traditions. Fishing with family can strengthen relationships and improve emotional well-being. And hey — it’s way better than letting the kids sit on their phones!
👉 Related: Fishing With Family and Friends
Teaching Fishing Through Play
Games give you a chance to teach basic fishing techniques in a stress-free, fun way. Think of them as the “training wheels” of real-life fishing.
1. Casting Contest
How It Works
Set up targets on the shore using hula hoops, paper plates, or floating rings. Each kid takes turns casting and earns points based on how close they get to the target.
Skills It Teaches
- Casting accuracy
- Patience and focus
- Coordination and control
These skills directly support fishing techniques and build future angling pros.
👉 Explore more on Casting Techniques
What You’ll Need
- Kid-safe rods (or even casting plugs)
- Floating targets or rings
- Scorecards
Pro Tip: Turn It Into a Mini-Tournament
Keep track of scores and give small prizes for “Best Cast,” “Most Improved,” or “Silliest Throw.” A little competition makes it more fun!
2. Fishing Bingo
Setting Up the Game
Create Bingo cards with images like “fish jumps,” “bird flies by,” “boat passes,” or “dad tangles his line.” Laminate them to make them water-resistant and reusable.
Customizing Your Bingo Cards
Use icons from real fishing experiences and tie them to what’s around your favorite fishing destinations. Each square becomes a scavenger-style challenge!
👉 See top Lake Fishing Destinations
Why Kids Love It
It keeps their eyes peeled and adds excitement to the calm moments of waiting for a bite.
3. Scavenger Hunt by the Shore
Nature Meets Fun
Scavenger hunts are perfect for younger kids who might not be ready to sit still with a rod. Include nature-based tasks like “find a feather,” “see a frog,” or “collect a cool rock.”
👉 Add a nature element by incorporating themes from Outdoor Activities
Sample Items to Include
- Pinecone
- Something shiny
- Bug crawling on a stick
- Fishing lure (found with permission!)
Safety Tips for This Game
- Supervise near the water
- Make sure nothing dangerous is picked up
- Stay within visible range
4. Guess the Fish
Learning with Laughter
Show kids a silhouette or picture of a fish and let them guess what it is. You can use flashcards or even a fishing guidebook.
👉 Learn from the Fishing Gear Guide
Best for Kids 6 and Up
Slightly older kids love trivia, especially when they can beat their siblings. Turn it into a friendly competition with prizes for correct answers.
How to Incorporate Local Fish Facts
Do a little research on the types of fish in your lake beforehand. Use lake-specific guides to make the quiz more relevant.
5. Tackle Box Memory Game
How It Works
Lay out a series of tackle box items (hooks, bobbers, soft plastics, etc.). Let kids study them for 30 seconds, then cover them up and see how many they remember.
👉 Tip: Check out this Checklist for essential gear ideas
Make It More Challenging
Add oddball items like a spoon or a rubber duck to throw them off. You’ll be surprised how observant kids are!
A Fun Way to Teach Gear Knowledge
Kids learn what goes into a fishing combo, building familiarity with tackle gear and accessories.
6. Fishing Charades
Movement + Imagination = Magic
Act out things like “reeling in a big fish,” “a fish that got away,” or “casting a line” — and let everyone guess.
👉 Inspired by fun and laughter in Family Fishing
Charade Prompts for Lake Fun
- Fish dancing on a line
- Boat stuck in mud
- Big bass battle!
- Mosquito attack!
Best Played Around the Campfire
This is a great wind-down game after dinner. And don’t forget marshmallows!
Extra Tips for Making Fishing Games Memorable
Bring Snacks and Stay Hydrated
Happy kids are fed kids. Bring enough drinks and snacks to keep energy high throughout the games.
Mix Education with Entertainment
Sprinkle in lessons about fish species, habitats, or how weather affects fishing — subtly and informally.
👉 Browse these Fishing Tips
Capture the Moments
Take photos and videos. Create a digital scrapbook of your outdoor traditions. Bonus: kids love looking back on themselves having fun.
Linking Fishing Games with Real Fishing Skills
Casting Accuracy and Patience
Games like the casting contest teach actual skills needed for precision fishing. Encourage improvement with positive feedback.
👉 See our tips on Fishing Accuracy
Learning Fish Species and Habitats
Bingo, charades, and memory games all expose kids to vocabulary and species common to lakes and rivers.
👉 Tag your experiences with Beginner Fishing Skills
Planning the Perfect Family Fishing Trip
Use a Checklist and Pack Smart
Start with the basics: rods, reels, sunscreen, snacks, first-aid kit, and a good attitude. Here’s a helpful trip planning guide.
👉 Also explore our Trip Planning Tag
Choosing Kid-Friendly Fishing Destinations
Look for calm lakes, clear banks, and amenities like restrooms and picnic tables. A list of affordable and family-friendly destinations can help.
Conclusion
Fishing trips should be more than just waiting for the bobber to move — they should be about laughs, learning, and building family traditions. With these six fishing games, you’ll transform your next lake day into an unforgettable experience. Let playfulness cast the first line — and watch the love for fishing reel in naturally.
Don’t forget to explore more resources and guides over at Wilson Outdoor Connection, where fishing isn’t just a sport — it’s a way to bond, relax, and make memories that last.
FAQs
1. What age are these fishing games best for?
Most of these games are great for kids ages 4–12, but older teens (and even adults!) often enjoy joining in too.
2. Can I play these games without real fishing gear?
Absolutely! Many games use pretend gear or basic supplies. It’s about fun, not fishing success.
3. Do these games help with real fishing skills?
Yes! Especially games that teach casting, fish recognition, and gear memory.
4. Are there indoor versions of these games?
Yes — Fishing Bingo, Guess the Fish, and Tackle Box Memory can be played at home or in a cabin.
5. How do I keep kids engaged if there’s no fish biting?
Fishing games are the perfect solution. They keep energy up while waiting for a catch.
6. Is it safe for kids to play by the water?
Always supervise closely, keep life jackets on, and play games on dry, flat ground when possible.
7. Where can I find more family fishing ideas?
Check out Wilson Outdoor Connection’s family fishing resources and trip planning page for plenty of ideas.