New to Fishing, Have Questions

[jefffoxsr]

Me and my 5 year old nephew would like to start fishing. We are new to it. I don't know where to start, so here are a few questions. If there's anything else I need to consider, please let me know.

1. What type and brand of pole would be good for us?
2. Is there a certain type of pole that would be easier to cast for beginners, if so which one?
3. Is there a certain length that is recommended for beginners?
4. Is there a beginning fishing book you would recommend?
5. How do I figure out what bait to use for inland lakes around the thumb of michigan, or any other area?
6. What else do I need to know to get started?
7. Do you generally reel it in fast or real slow?

We went to this man made lake today. We were fishing off a dock. There were a lot of fish right below us off the dock. I tried 3 different baits. The first one, the fish came up to it and then just swam away. The other two baits were completely ignored even though I was moving it past the group of fish over and over. Any comments?

Thanks for all your help.


Jeff

[kumma]

1. What type and brand of pole would be good for us?
I usually try a few in the stores and get the one that feels best. If your just starting out try out some inexpensive ones first to see how it goes.

2. Is there a certain type of pole that would be easier to cast for beginners, if so which one?
How about a closed bail spin caster from zebco, those seem to be popular. less tangles and easy to use.

3. Is there a certain length that is recommended for beginners?

4. Is there a beginning fishing book you would recommend?

5. How do I figure out what bait to use for inland lakes around the thumb of michigan, or any other area?
You can never go wrong with worms, crawlers or leaf. Maybe leeches or minnows but generally worms.

6. What else do I need to know to get started?
Perpare to have fun and enjoy spending time with the little one. ;)

7. Do you generally reel it in fast or real slow?
Try using bobbers first to get a hang of it then try lures if you want. Bobbers can be more fun for little ones, seeing them move is fun.

Dont be afraid to ask in smaller fishing shops for advice and tips, im not sure where you are but smaller shops generally have better service and local knowledge.

[chamookman]

Jeff - Don't start :yikes: ! Next thing You know You'll have a $25,000 boat and another $10,000 in rods and tackle :lol: . Good for You, wanting to take Kids fishing - time well spent. As far a books go, any of the In-Fisherman books are very informative. As far as tackle goes, starting with spincasting gear would advisable until You decide on bigger and better things. If You have a tackle store close (Gander Mountain - Wal Mart - local baitshop) don't be afraid to ask the same questions - these people are in the bussiness and should be willing to help You get started. Reading the posts on this web-site would be another place for information. Good luck & have fun - Bob.

[icefishermanmark]

do you have any friends or family members who fish? this is definitely the easiest way to get started. nothing replaces time on the water, and it's always fun with family and friends.

[Timdog]

A good inexpensive rod that I found and have been using is the Berkley Cherrywood. Comes in a spinning or spincast. I found them at Walmart for 14.95 during a sale now I see they're 18.95. I've beatup the one I have pretty good since Jan jigging and casting crankbaits. For weight and feel it's comparable to some of the more expensive rods.

[jefffoxsr]

Thanks for the help.