Gearing Up

ROD AND REEL
New anglers can often borrow a fishing pole or get one at a tag sale. If you're ready to buy, here's what we recommend.

FOR ADULTS: We're partial to a six-foot graphite or fiberglass spinning rod with medium to light action. Action can be described as flexibility; lighter rods let you feel smaller fish when they're on the line. You should also purchase a spinning reel, the kind with a bail. Expect to spend between $40 and $70. Have the merchant show you features such as the drag, which lets the line slip out under pressure so it won't break.

FOR KIDS: Look for a four- to five-foot rod and push-button reel package (Zebco is one popular brand name) for $15 to $25. Don't spend much less, as a kid's equipment has to be even more foolproof and durable than yours or he may simply give up.

NET
A net helps you land a fish, but it also lets your youngest child catch frogs while everyone else is fishing. Be sure to choose a spot that's a safe distance from anyone who's casting and make sure he's supervised by an adult.

BAIT
Earthworms still rule for your average sunfish. Buy them at a tackle shop, dig for them in your compost pile or garden or search the lawn after a rainstorm. Store them in the refrigerator in a plastic tub (with a perforated top) filled with moist dirt. Other baits to try include:
• Mealworms--sold at any bait shop, these are much less slimy and easier for kids to use.
• Plastic worms (two or three inch) or grubs--keep these in their bag or they'll melt into your plastic tackle box.
• Artificial fish bait, such as PowerBait--looks and feels (but doesn't smell) like Play-Doh.
• Bits of cheese, balled-up bread, kernels of corn or chunks of hot dog--these all work just fine.

BASIC TACKLE BOX
Your tackle box should be light and waterproof with latches that fasten securely. Basic equipment includes:

BOBBERS: These are used to keep your bait dangling where the fish will see it, rather than lying on the bottom. They also lend weight for casting. When the bobber goes under, you know you've got something.

HOOKS: As a rule, match the mouth of the fish with the hook: too small and the hook can be swallowed; too big and it won't catch fish. For sunfish-size fish, use #8s, first pinching flat the barbs to make them safer and easier to remove. Store hooks in an old cork. Until a child is ready, parents should attach, bait and even cast and remove the hooks.

KNIVES AND NAIL CLIPPERS: Knives are used for cutting tangled line and other repairs (adults only). Kids should use nail clippers.

SNAP SWIVELS: These clips let you switch hooks or lures easily; the swivel reduces line twisting.

SINKERS: These prevent your bait from floating. Be sure to get the safer, nonlead sinkers.

HOOK REMOVAL TOOL: Use this if the fish swallows your hook. You can also use needle-nose pliers or fishing forceps.

FIRST-AID KIT: This is an often overlooked but extremely important part of any good tackle box. Accidents will happen, especially with kids around, and you should be prepared for minor cuts, scrapes and bruises.

FISHING LICENSES: These are usually required for any fishing. Get one (along with local fishing regulations) at a tackle shop or from your state fish and wildlife office. Wear the license where it can be clearly seen. Most states don't require kids to be licensed, but they still need to follow all the rules.