A beginners guide for fishing gear
There are many pieces of gear to choose from, and it can get overwhelming. Especially in big box stores like Cabelas or Bass Pro Shop, I know I was intimidated by all the options. This Guide will breakdown the differences in an easy-to-understand guide so you can choose what’s best for you!
Introduction
Why the Right Gear Matters
The most basic gear such as the rod, reel, and line can affect your fishing experience. Its not a one type for all, each piece can serve better in different conditions. These differences can often be overlooked and hard to know which to choose from. This guide will break down the differences so you know what the best fishing gear for you is.
1. The fishing rod
Fishing Rod Lengths Groups and Uses
Some of the smallest rods are 4’6″- 5’6″ in length.
Best for:
- Children and young beginners
- Ultra-light fishing for panfish
- Fishing in narrow creeks or areas with overhangs
- Close-range accuracy
Why choose this group:
Shorter rods are often easier to control, more accurate at close distances, and perfect for young kids. They are often cost effective however, their casting range is very limited.
6’0″ – 7’6″ are the standard Freshwater Rods sizes. (Most Versatile)
Best for:
- Most freshwater fishing (such as bass, trout, walleye, panfish, catfish)
- Bank fishing and boat fishing
- Beginners wanting a do-everything rod
8’0″ – 9’0″ rods are best for fly fishing, and long casts in shore fishing.
Best for:
- Fly fishing rods this length is best for trout and bass
- Providing more power and farther casting
- Long casts without going full surf-rod length
Why choose this group:
These rods give you reach, line control, and leverage, especially useful in rivers or rough saltwater conditions.
10’0″ – 12’0″ rods are best for surf & ocean casting
Best for:
- Surf fishing from beaches
- Casting heavy weights long distances
- Pier fishing
- Handling strong waves and current
Ideally, you want to choose a rod around 7’ as it is the best for casting distances but still short enough its easier to manage. Below is a list of lengths and ideals for the beginner range recommendation.
- 6’0″–6’6″ → More accuracy, beginner-friendly
- 7’0″ → Best all-around beginner length
- 7’6″ → Longer casts, great for covering farther distances.
Fishing Rod Weight Classes
Along with different lengths, there are different weight classes that fishing rods follow such as Ultra-Light, Light, Medium-Light, Medium, Medium-Heavy, Heavy, and Extra Heavy.
Ultra-Light to Light are typically for very small fish and are easy to break, great for small or shallow water conditions.
Medium-Light to Medium-Heavy are much better for beginner everyday use. They are best for all-purpose fishing at lakes and are better for lure action.
Heavy to Extra-Heavy are primarily for very large fish such as cat fish, sharks, and large saltwater fish. These are typically only used for deep sea ocean conditions.
Ideally, Medium action rods are best for beginners. This style has the best balance of comfortability, flexibility, and strength for most freshwater fish at your local lake.
Recommendations
Personal Experience
My go to choice is a 6’0” rod, which is the Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod as an everyday rod that I can easily keep in the back of my car. I like this length because it is more convenient for me due to my shorter height and it is easier to manage. This is a medium action rod and is perfect for small lakes and it’s more cost efficient for getting started. However, I do like the 7’0” for a second choice and will often use that instead if I know I will be fishing for a longer time at larger open lakes. This Bass Pro Shop Tourney Special Spinning Rod and Reel Combo is also excellent for medium action and enjoyable.
Another rod that ranges from 6’4”-7’6” but is excellent for beginners is the Royal Legend Pro Spinning Fishing Rod and Reel Combo, although it costs a little more, it is a high quality choice.
2. tackle
Premade tackle box
It’s hard to know what kind of tackle you should buy when starting out. There are various options and knowing what you need can get overwhelming, the easiest way would be buying a premade tackle box. These are great for starting out and getting accustomed to how tackle works and what you need for specific species.
Some of the best premade tack kits are:
Plano Synergy Fishing Ready Set – $35
- This is great beginner friendly tackle box that includes 180 pieces. It is also includes two-tier tray extension when opened, perfect for easy storage access and organization.
Eagle Claw Freshwater Tackle Kit – $25
- This is great for buying an assortment of hooks, swivels, sinkers and jigs. It includes 83 pieces with a variety of each type of gear.
Plusinno Large 4-Layer Tackle Box with Tackle Included – $50
- Although this costs a little more, this tackle box comes with 547 pieces. Not only does it include tackle and hooks, it includes a variety of weights, and tools such as pliers, fish grippers, and a hook remover. This is the most ideal if you want a one and done kind of purchase to get started.
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Mariana is a fishing enthusiast who wants to share knowledge with others who want to get involved into the hobby but might feel intimated.