ASK THE GAME & FISH

Q. I have a young children that go ice fishing with me. Even though they are not old enough yet to completely tend to their own lines, can I still set out two lines for each of them and watch the lines myself?

A. Good question, but an angler must be able to independently handle their own pole/lines. Of course, no problem with you hooking a fish on your line and having the tykes reel it in or have them assist to whatever degree they can. But to have the privilege of using their own lines, the youngsters must be able to operate the equipment themselves by casting, setting the hook and reeling it in.  Children need to be actively involved in attending their own lines so you are not in violation of having too many for yourself.  There is no problem with "assisting them" as long as they are actively involved.

-WGFD-