Ah, let him get to know you, not a stick that you push at him. I had my hand in the tank tonight to move the powerhead which had slipped. My son yelled, "MOM, the lionfish!!!!" I looked and he was swimming as fast as he could at my hand. I turned my hand and showed him that I didn't have anything. He turned and slowly swam away. These fish are not trying to hurt you. They either don't like you invading their space, don't know why you are there, or think you have something for them. It is okay. I know my fish and what they are after. These are your pets. They may be fish, but they know who their owner is just as any other pet does. They should be comfortable with your hand in the tank. Move slow and don't thrust objects at them. That will only make them more affraid.