what's a simple fishing setup for my kid

[UphillHabit]

I want to take my 5-year-old fishing for the first time, but I have no idea where to start. I saw some kids' fishing rods at a store and thought they might be worth checking out. Since I'm not really into fishing myself, I could use some advice on what to get for us. What kind of gear do you all think is best for a beginner like us? Any tips for making it fun and easy?

 

[Wooly Bugger]

Young kids are tough to fish with, but it's something they get excited about and a good wholesome activity. I think the branded little rods like Scooby Doo or whatever are just fine for little kids. Throw away the line that it comes with and replace it with some higher strength line. Though it doesn't have to hold a truck. Go somewhere they will likely catch a fish. I personally could care less if I catch anything all day, but kids are going to want to catch something. Use something like the rig pictured, but be careful bottom fishing if there is a lot of snags. Bottom rigs are great if you can use them, because the fish in AZ stay low to keep cool. Use floating powerbait on your hook. Don't even bother fishing yourself at first, you'll have your hands full with your kid. Good luck!

 

[old oak]

I like to start kids out with a small kids rod from a big box store, a small bobber and a baitholder hook size 12 to 10 and a bunch of worms. They can watch the baiting process then watch the bobber for action. when it slows, they can play with the worms. Put a worm on the hook about 18-24 inches below the bobber and let them have some fun catching anything. One girl I started caught her first fish, a 4 pound carp. Talk about excited!

 

[Ballistic Therapy]

My first fishing pole was a bamboo pole with a kite string and a safety pin for a hook.
The bobber was a wood tinker toy .
Bait was a worm we dug up.