The Best Fishing Equipment for Beginners

Purchase a rod and reel package that is not geared to any particular kind of fish, unless you are committed from the start to only hunt for one species. A sturdy all purpose rod and reel combo is the Rhino RSC Spincast that retails in 2009 for about $40. It allows for trout fishing, as well as bagging bass and even salmon.

Put together a tackle box that includes a good many different options to allow for various kinds of fishing experiences. A great start is the Chatter Bait 26 piece fishing kit---it retails in 2009 for about $20---that contains lures and artificial bait. Round out the selection of tackle with a few #6 live bait hooks, a roll of fishing line, a couple of ¼ oz. bell weights, and also some jars of assorted Power Bait for bass and trout. Add an all purpose pocket knife, and you are done. The cost for these incidentals will not top $45.

Consider using the NRS Chinook mesh back fishing personal flotation device that retails for about $80 as your tackle containment system. This ensures that you always have your tackle at your fingertips while it also keeps you safe during boating or even stream fishing. Eliminate the traditional tackle box, and you are sure to find that having one less thing to haul in and out of the boat or car enhances the enjoyment of the activity.

Check your budget and if your rod, reel and tackle selection have left you with some money not yet spent, consider optional comfort gear which, even though it is not essential, can make your beginning fishing experience so much more pleasant.

For example, the Skwoosh Angler II gel seat cushion that retails in 2009 for $45 keeps you sitting comfortably on even the hardest bench or rock for unlimited periods of time while waiting for the bites.

Neos Trekker overshoes are perfect for wading into lakes and streams up to calf level and not get the feet wet. They retail for about $65 and keep you dry and warm, even when fishing in spring or fall.