It doesn't take much to get kids hooked on fishing. But before your kids hit the dock or climb aboard a boat, there are a few things to do to prepare for this fun family sport.

  • Check to see if life vests fit your kids properly this year. Remind them to wear vests at all times while near water.

  • Use a metal file to remove barbs from fishing hooks that young anglers will be using. This precaution can help avoid serious injury to the skin, as well as prevent snags in clothing.

  • Pick up a bottle of good-quality sunscreen and have hats with visors for everyone.

  • Practice casting the fishing line without a hook in the back yard or at a park. Substitute a piece of hook-and-loop fastener, such as Velcro, attached to a weighted end of the hook. Place small toys with pieces of matching Velcro attached to them on the lawn. Then, "fish" for the toys.

  • Make a pint-size tackle box from a cardboard egg carton. Fill the spaces with useful items, such as a bobber, canned or fresh corn kernels for bait and some mini peanut-butter sandwiches, in case the angler needs a snack. Use brass fasteners to attach fabric or leather strips on top of the carton to make it an easy carryall.

    EXTRA TIP: OUTWIT THE WORMS!

    The common way to transport worms and dirt to the fishing hole is with a small tin can with a plastic snap-on lid. But when it comes time to bait the hook, the worms are usually hiding at the bottom of

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    the container. Here's an easy solution: Before scooping worms and dirt into the can, remove the bottom with a can opener and snap on another tight-fitting plastic lid. When it's time to fish, your kids can open either end and can easily find the bait. (Remember to poke holes in the plastic lids to allow air in the can.)

    Donna Erickson's award-winning television series, "Donna's Day," is airing on public television nationwide. Watch it in the Twin Cities at 7:30 a.m. Fridays on tptLife on channels 13 and 17. Sign up for Donna's e-newsletter at donnasday.com. Her latest book is "Donna Erickson's Fabulous Funstuff for Families."