This summer my son caught a nice smallie while learning and using a bait casting rod I built for him. It is awesome making memories.

My kids are 19 and 14 now, but I still remember the most important rule I learned when I took them fishing: It is their day, not mine! I had to focus on them first and make sure they had a good time. When they were younger, I used to go fishing with them and try to catch fish myself. But they needed constant attention and guidance, and I would get frustrated. They sensed that and their interest dwindled. So I changed my approach: I put away my poles and concentrated on helping them catch fish. It was much more rewarding for me to see them succeed and enjoy themselves.

Including - Boat, trailer, fishing rod & reel, tackle and other maintenance?

This may be a topic for a future session: In response to the comment regarding taking a break from fishing during this time of year, it is a great time for conducting maintenance. Is there any critical maintenance that you recommend?

Get us to think critically and strategically. Lots of variables to the fishing equation. 

I hear a lot of times that you should fish the wind blown shore because it blows water and food as well churning up the shoreline. This might be a warmer weather situation. What are your thoughts?

If you can only buy one reel for cranking, should it be 6.5 to 1?

Stopped by the Florida Bass Conservation Center on my trip. Here is a picture of the Florida trophy catch annual winners. https://myfwc.com/fishing/freshwater/stocking/fbcc/