what's a good fishing setup for a first timer with a kid

[UphillHabit]

I’m new to fishing and thinking about taking my 5-year-old out for a fun day by the water. Honestly, I’m not very experienced myself, but I think it could be a great bonding moment. I saw some simple rods at a local store and I’m curious if those are the right choice for us. What do you recommend for bait or any tips to make the day enjoyable without getting overwhelmed? Would love to hear what worked for you when you first started.

 

[Frontstuffers]

Zebco 202 with appropriate size pole (for the youngster). Easy and simple to use and don't cost a fortune. They seem to be "the old reliable" and have been around forever.

 

[flintknapper]

Just Kidding............

 

[hivel37]

Frontstuffer mentioned Zebco.
Complete rods and reels can be picked up at yard sales. Fill in the blanks with lures and extras at Walmart.

 

[dennyntx]

View attachment 23

Just Kidding............

 

[dennyntx]

I'm new to fishing and thinking about taking my 5-year-old out for a fun day by the water. Honestly, I'm not very experienced myself, but I think it could be a great bonding moment. I saw some simple rods at a local store and I'm curious if those are the right choice for us. What do you recommend for bait or any tips to make the day enjoyable without getting overwhelmed? Would love to hear what worked for you when you first started.

First time my Dad took me fishing it was with an old cane pole and some earth worms he made me dig up in the back yard I'm 58 now my dad is now 81 and I think that was one of the best times I ever had to this day sometimes I will just take out the old cane pole just go set by a creek and pull perch out just something about going back to the old way that you can't beat

 

[MikeR]

I agree with dennyntx,a cane pole is the way to go.At his age,the less mechanics the better.He will get a quicker tug and even a small pan fish will feel quite sporty on the short line.I'm soon to be 69yrs old,that's what I started with when I was 4yrs old and was probably 7 or 8 before I got my first of many 202's.

 

[Wendell Reich]

Cut a sapling, tie fishing line to it. A bobber and a hook and just pull bluegill out until your arms get tired.

Even after fishing all over the world for the biggest fish in the ocean, this still makes me happy.

If you can swing it (at the right place, if allowed) bring a skillet, oil and some fish fry and eat a few at the end of the trip.

Your kid will never forget that experience.