The Top Fishing Equipment Pieces Everyone Should Own

Fishing can bring you a sense of peace and keep you physically fit. You don’t have to be rich to participate in the sport, but you do need certain gear. From a fishing rod to extra bait, here is a list of the things you’ll need if you want to start participating in this fun sport, or if you want to get your children into fishing.

Fishing Rod
The type of fishing you’ll do will dictate the kind of fishing rod you’ll need. There are fly fishing, salt-water and spincast rods. For the beginner, a spincast can be a good choice since the rod can easily be cast with the press of a button. For the little ones, this is a great beginner rod. Many stores have miniature versions of them too. Traditionally, a spinning rod will give you the most flexibility. If you can buy one rod to start, it should be a spinning rod. They come in combinations or kits that can be purchased together.

Fishing Line
While the fishing rod you purchase will have fishing line, you’ll want extra because the line will often break. You might need fishing line to change out based on where you’re fishing. When fishing, you’ll have to consider the weight of the fish you are targeting. A large catch will require tougher line.

Baits and Lures
When it comes to bait, there are a variety of options from which to choose. You can use live bait like worms or shiners purchased at a local bait shop. With children, you might consider digging up worms in the backyard. It’s a fun activity, and they’ll enjoy spending time digging for their own bait. Some areas don’t allow bait, and you’ll need to use a fishing lure. Artificial flies and lures come in all shapes, colors and sizes. For example, you can use plastic worms or jigs when fishing for largemouth bass.

Pliers and Knife
When you catch a fish, you’ll need to hold the fish still to remove the hook. Needle-nose pliers make this an easier process, and you won’t get poked with the hook. Delta Net & Twine said, “A knife will be helpful to cut the line when it’s been snagged in the bushes, or when it becomes tangled, which can happen when the line is old.”

Various Hooks
It might seem weird that you need more than one hook to catch a fish, but the size of the hook will determine the size of the fish you catch. A small hook won’t be able to land a largemouth bass. Along with the hook size, you’ll need to consider the type of hook point you’ll want. There are spear point, which are the standard, hollow point, knife edge and surgical needle.

Fishing Tackle Box
Heading to the fishing spot, you’ll need to have a tackle box to hold all your hooks, lures and pliers. The tackle box you use will depend on a variety of factors, but mostly, it comes down to personal preference. You can use a small, plastic tackle box to hold the essentials, or you can purchase a soft, cloth bag that will hang on the shoulder. The soft carryall bag will allow you to keep your hands free for carrying other things like the rod and a cooler of beer.

The Right Clothing
You’ll need something to keep the sun off your head like a fishing hat or ball cap. If you plan on fly fishing, you’ll need waders to keep your clothing dry. The other clothing you choose will be based on the weather. You should be warm and comfortable while fishing. Don’t wear clothes that are loose, or you’ll end up hooking yourself.

Fishing is a great sport that doesn’t require much skill at first. It’s one that entire families can enjoy together too. Children as young as 5 or 6 years old can appreciate throwing their line into the water and pulling up a fish. You’ll need some gear to start like a fishing rod, bait and the right hooks, but they can be purchased in a kit for the beginner.