Places where you get a few nibbles during day will often lead to many catches at night in same spot.

Night fishing can make a bad daytime fisherman look good.

I always like to keep track of lures that work at certain fishing spots during day, and then try exact same thing at night. Try it next time you are out. You'll be amazed at difference a simple variable (time of day) has on your results.

Here is a simple way to keep track.

One a piece of paper, write four column headings:

Place Lure Used Number Catches Size of Fish ----- --------- -------------- ------------

Then, write down your results from your day time fishing below columns on your paper. After you try a few difference spots with a few different lures, do exact same thing you did during day at night this time.

Water & Snacks: Bring plenty of both. Fruit and salty snacks are best (although sometimes candy works as a good motivator). Try to avoid bringing snacks laden with sugar and caffeine. They cause spikes (then crashes) in energy levels and tend to promote dehydration.

Matters of Safety. Know basics of administering first-aid. Allergic reactions to insects or plants can turn urgent quickly. Keep children on trail and within your site at all times. Steer them clear of poisonous plants, steep ledges, overhangs, and potentially dangerous falls. A small, travel sized first aid kit is great for short hikes in event of accidental scrapes or insect bites.

Essential Gear: Wet wipes are great for cleaning and double as toilet paper if necessary (bring plastic bags to carry them home). Always carry a compass and map, a flashlight, waterproof matches, bug dope, sunscreen and a whistle.

Opportunities for Fun & Learning

Hiking provides perfect opportunity to instill in children a love and respect for nature that will last a lifetime. Singing camp songs (quietly) or designing a simple nature scavenger hunt is a great way to engage their minds and teach them about environment. Give them disposable cameras and let them take pictures for a scrapbook or have them carry a nature journal to write in or draw things they see. Don't forget to educate them about trail etiquette and importance of leaving plants and animals undisturbed.