For some, it is the thrill of catching the biggest fish, or the most, or experiencing the greatest fight. Some catch fish to let them go.

Others enjoy the outdoors experience with family members.

For me, growing up in a fishing family, fish were caught to supplement the diet - catching a fish for the table.

Once enough fish were caught to feed the family you stopped and went surfing or diving.

Today recreational fishing is big business catering for a wide range of interest.

With all that in mind I spent the afternoon with Karingal Preschoolers. What an experience.

Accompanied by parents and family members the kids hit Little Beach armed to the teeth with rods, tackle boxes, bait and heaps of enthusiasm.

When lines were untangled and attached hooks were baited with worms and prawns the signal was given. "Cast your lines!"

With a little help along the way everyone had a line in the water.

Then the real fun began as squeals of delight accompanied fish bouncing up the beach.

Whiting, toads, tiny squire, a sizeable flathead and a tarwhine were all caught, carefully handled and released back into the water. Fantastic.