TYING THE FISHERMAN'S KNOT
Whether you're tying a hook or a swivel to your line, use this slip-proof fisherman's knot. Tie your hook directly to the line or tie on a swivel, then snap on a snelled hook (the kind with a leader). In either case, attach a bobber further up the line.
HOW TO BAIT A HOOK
Once you get past the slime and wriggling, the tricky part of baiting a hook is getting the worm to stay on. The advanced technique--threading the hook lengthwise through the worm--does just that. Still too icky? Remember: you don't have to use earthworms to catch sunfish.
HOW TO CAST
Everyone casts a bit differently, so don't be too concerned about form. An over-the-shoulder cast is traditional, but a sidearm cast keeps the swinging hook farther from the angler's face. The point of any cast is to get your bait where you want it. Practice in the yard with just a bobber on the line. Tip: Throw a hula hoop onto the lawn and have your kids aim for it.
STEP 1: Hold the pole in your right hand (or left, if you're a lefty, as pictured) and let the bait dangle a foot from the tip of the rod. With a spinning reel, hold the line under your pointer finger and flip over the wire bail. With a push-button reel, push in the button with your thumb and hold it down firmly.
STEP 2: Draw back the rod, being careful not to tangle the line around the rod's tip. Now cast the line toward your target and simultaneously lift your finger (or, with a push button, your thumb) so the line is free to unravel off the reel. Tip: Have kids give a warning call of "Casting!"
STEP 3: When the bobber lands, crank the reel's handle to flip back the bail (with a spinning reel) or engage the reel (with a push button). Reel in any slack. Note: It's easier to reel in your line if it has some tension on it, so hold the line taut as you first crank.
