Local waters offer kids fun ways to unplug and explore

By Cherry Dumaual

NEW FAIRFIELD — The fish was tiny, but the moment was unforgettable.

With a Barbie fishing pole in hand, our seven-year-old goddaughter, Nichole, stood on our Squantz Pond dock, eyes wide as she reeled in the first fish she had ever caught. She was ecstatic. Years later, now an oncology nurse, Nichole still remembers that moment at her godparents’ lake house.

For many families in New Fairfield and Sherman, that first catch can spark something lasting — a connection to nature, a sense of accomplishment, and a reason to step away from screens.

“Fishing is one of the only sports that gets kids totally into nature not just on a field,” said Jed Wilson, founder and executive director of Candlewood Fishing Camp, a New Fairfield-based nonprofit sleepaway camp for kids ages 9 to 17.

A former middle school teacher of 16 years, Wilson lives in New Fairfield with his wife and three children and has made it his mission to help more kids access fishing and nature.

Starting Simple, Starting Young

Wilson says children can begin fishing at a young age, especially when the focus is on simple, rewarding experiences.

“I started fishing at four years old. I personally put a rod in my kids’ hands when they were two. At this age, they should focus on catching sunfish with a bobber and a worm. Sunfish are easy to catch and not too big. You just want to build the excitement of kids feeling a fish on the line and seeing their catch. Once this happens, there is a good chance they will be hooked for life,” he said.

Parents don’t need experience to get started. Many kids, Wilson notes, first become interested in fishing by watching videos, then want to try it themselves.

Close to Home

Families don’t have to travel far to find beginner-friendly spots.

At Squantz Pond, a public dock and shoreline access make it a popular option, especially in the spring when trout are active. Portions of Candlewood Lake can be accessed from public areas such as Danbury Town Park. Ball Pond also offers limited shore access.

“Most of the public areas are flat and not that dangerous, but use common sense. If a spot looks good, but you have to climb down rocks to get there, be careful,” Wilson said.

When Camp Isn’t an Option

While camps and lessons can help, they are not required.

“We are a non-profit camp that offers tuition assistance for families that qualify. I was raised by a single mom, and I was lucky that my grandfather helped my mom pay for our camps. I know it’s not easy, camp is expensive. I know that camp can have a massive positive impact on a kid’s life and help set them on a path that leads to happiness and purpose. My camp experience did just that, everything I did in my adult life stemmed from my love of summer camp. If camp is just not in the cards, bring your kids to a public pond, lake or stream and just let them fish. That’s how most kids start out. They will figure it out,” Wilson said.

For two local teenage brothers, Jake and James, that approach has worked well. Without formal instruction, they have spent years exploring nearby spots, often fishing for hours at a time.

They describe fishing as both relaxing and challenging. It is a way to focus and enjoy time outdoors. Just as important, they say, it has become something they share together, strengthening their bond as brothers while giving them a break from phones and digital distractions.

Keeping It Fun

Patience is essential. Lines will tangle, hooks will snag, and not every trip ends with a catch.

“It is really important to be patient, as kids will cast into trees, snag, and lose their hooks. If you get annoyed at this, it will ruin the trip and may turn them off to fishing,” Wilson said.

Planning ahead also helps.

“If you are fishing from shore or a boat, make sure you have enough food, snacks, and drinks to last the duration of your trip. Make sure you have enough tackle for the trip. Some parents like to sit back and read while their kids fish, some will fish with their kids,” he said.

Local shops such as Candlewood Bait and Tackle and Bounty Hunter Bait and Tackle can help beginners choose affordable gear and offer advice.

Safety First

A few precautions go a long way.

“The must haves when fishing, no matter how old, are sunglasses and a hat! Hooks are flying around and you have to protect your eyes and head. Fishing is a sun-heavy activity, so you have to have a hat and sunscreen. Kids should always have a life vest with them. Legally they must have one on a boat, and it’s always good for a younger child to wear one if fishing from a dock. AND keep an eye on your kids when they are small near the water. You may not know how quickly it drops off and kids like to wade into the water,” he said.

A Lasting Connection

Beyond the catch, fishing offers something just as meaningful: time together, quiet focus, and a chance to notice the natural world.

“When fishing, you will be sharing a body of water for all the birds, fish, and amphibians that call it home. It’s always fun to try and note all the wildlife you see. Bring a bird book and see how many you can see. Teaching catch and release of the fish you caught is super important, so kids know they can catch them again someday,” Wilson said.

For some, like Nichole, those early moments stay vivid for years — long after the fish itself is gone.

And for families across New Fairfield and Sherman, the opportunity to create those memories is as close as the nearest pond, dock, or stretch of shoreline.

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Sidebar

More Info about Candlewood Fishing Camp:

Candlewoodfishingcamp.org

Local Fishing Spots for Kids:

Ball Pond

 A smaller, calmer lake that’s ideal for beginners. With easy shoreline access and plenty of sunfish and perch, it’s one of the most reliable spots for kids to get a bite quickly.

Candlewood Lake Town Park

 A family-friendly setting with open space, parking, and restrooms. Fish from shore in the shallows for panfish — a good option for a relaxed outing.

Squantz Pond State Park

 Quiet, scenic, and well-suited for families. Its calmer waters and accessible shoreline make it a go-to spot for young anglers, with a mix of panfish and stocked trout.