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Children grow up very fast and before a parent knows it, school is over, university is over, and bam, no more running around laughing and screaming, no more games in the park, and no more of the exuberant joy that only children bring. So it is important to get out there and have some fun. Fathers are always working, so making time for a day in the sun fishing or flying kites is a good idea.

If you think back to some of your fondest childhood memories you’ll probably come across at least one memory of fishing with dad in the early frosty hours of some Sunday morning, probably rummaging through fishing kits. Or perhaps there are memories of running down a hill clutching the string of a kite, skipping and jumping in utter happiness while the kite flutters in the wind, with scattered clouds and blue skies as a backdrop. So now it’s your turn, family man, to make some memories.

Fishing in the fresh morning air

The early morning breeze brings with it smells of dew and of the bark of trees, and just before the sun starts to warm the grass and chase away the mist, a chill bites the nose. This is the most serene quality time a dad can spend with his son, though some daughters may also love fishing. Find a great spot for the type of fishing you’ll be doing, whether fly fishing, or fresh water angling; a comfy spot where you can sit and sip on the carelessness and vitality of catching fish.

Photo: Stock.Xchng

Before leaving the house, be sure to check that the fishing kits are well stocked with sinkers, bait, fishing line, hooks, lures and all that, then make your way, starting off the perfect day in the sun. There are some amazing reels out there and once the sun starts to scorch the forehead, put up a bivvie for protection and added comfort – also good for a little early morning rain.

One thing though, be careful what fish you decide to keep for supper because some fish like pike and carp may not be removed from rivers. There are strict fines for overstepping these environmental by-laws. But fish like salmon and trout are allowed to be cooked at home. A good meal is a great way to end the day. Check out this salmon recipe.

There is nothing like flying kites

Not only is there nothing that comes close to the majesty and beauty of hundreds of kites soaring through the air, with different patterns and colours, long flowing ribbon-tails, square shapes, triangles, dragons and birds, but there is also nothing like the thrill of flying kites.

This is after all a past-time that has been around for over 3000 years, existing in the realms of art, culture and science – the humble kite led to one of our most important inventions, the aeroplane.

Photo: Stock.Xchng

If the afternoon is good, and there are no rain clouds gathering, get the kites up in the air. Though many feel kites are for children, dad will love flying one again. One has to be careful to fly a kite in the right areas, keeping away from people, though, because in the UK, a kite flying on a beach is a ticket to trouble. They are banned on most beaches and in most public parks, especially stunt kites and the more extreme variation used in kiteboarding and kitesurfing. First find out where you can fly and then follow the rules and regulations and safety tips, and simply savour every moment.

Remember part of the fun comes in making a kite (which is also very good for skills development in children) but there are also really good kites for really good prices.

After flying kites, its back home for that lovely salmon you caught earlier.

Tags: fishing