Factors To Consider When Selecting A Fishing Rod For Kids
You are going to need to put together an angling starter kit for each of your children before you take them fishing for the first time. They are welcome to use each other’s tackle boxes, hooks, and lures, but you will need to purchase each of them a fishing rod that is suitable for the activity. Because it is intended for use by children, it ought to be condensed into a smaller and lighter package that is equipped with functions that are child-friendly. Consequently, if you want your children to enjoy fishing rather than being frustrated by adult poles, you should buy one that is appropriate for their physical stature and level of expertise.
When selecting an appropriate fishing rod for children, the length of the rod alone should not be the primary consideration; rather, you should pay attention to the other important characteristics listed below.
What to Look For When Choosing A Fishing Rod For Kids
1. Length of the rod
When looking to purchase a pole for your children, one of the most important considerations should be the length of the rod. The shorter and lighter the fishing pole needs to be to accommodate your child, the shorter they are. Avoid choosing fishing rods that are extremely short for your child so that they don’t have to give up their ability to cast. It would be ideal if the pole were approximately the same height as them. A longer pole makes it more difficult for children to maneuver, which can have a negative effect on their confidence when they are fishing. The length of a beginner rod that a child of four years old can hold comfortably and still make accurate casts with is approximately three to four feet long. As your child develops more experience and becomes more accurate in their casting, you should consider upgrading to longer fishing poles.
To assist you in selecting the appropriate rod for the child’s age, the following guideline is provided:
- 3-5 years old- 2-3 feet long rod
- 6-9 years old- 4-5 feet long rod
- 10 years and above- Over 5 feet long rod (Taking into consideration your child’s age, height, and previous experiences)
If your child can accurately cast and successfully reel in fish, you may want to consider upgrading to longer rods of approximately 6-7 feet in length.
2. Reel style
When it comes to the reel, you have the option of selecting one that is either open-faced (spinning reels) or closed-faced (‘push-button’ or spincast reels). These two kinds are the most suitable for use with fishing rods designed for beginners. Start off with spincast reels because they have a button that you can push to unwind the line from the spool. Due to the fact that the line does not become tangled, casting is made much simpler and easier for children. You have the option of purchasing the reel on its own or purchasing a rod and reel combination that is specifically designed for children. You might want to consider getting one that depicts well-known cartoon characters for children, as this gives the equipment that they use to fish a bit more personality.
Spinning reels are the way to go if your child is older than seven years old or already has some experience fishing. Your child will be better prepared for fishing as an adult if they learn to use open-faced reels, even though using them requires more practice. They are also the most effective for fishing in saltwater due to the fact that they are simpler to clean and have a smaller surface area, which means that they are less likely to accumulate salt deposits and consequently have fewer mechanical problems.
3. Rod’s material
The material that was used to make the rod is significant because it decides how long it will last. If you want to avoid having to replace the rod after each trip, choose a material that can withstand accidental drops and step on by your children. You have the option of selecting a rod made of fiberglass, graphite, or a composite blend because these rods are not only lightweight but also strong enough to withstand the use of children.
Fiberglass rods
Your children will benefit greatly from beginning their fishing experience with fiberglass rods. They are affordable and durable enough to withstand the erratic movements that will occur as your child learns how to cast and reel in fish. Because fiberglass rods are not very sensitive, it can be difficult for younger anglers to recognize a bite in a timely manner. This is especially true in saltwater fishing.
Graphite rods
Graphite rods are yet another option that works well for older children who already have some fishing experience. They are highly sensitive, which enables them to detect even the most subtle of bites. In addition, graphite rods are not only lightweight but also flexible and long-lasting. On the other hand, they are more expensive than other materials and have a higher risk of breaking if they are not handled carefully.
Composite rods
Composite rods are made up of at least two different materials, such as a combination of fiberglass and epoxy or glass and graphite, for example. Because they are made of a combination of materials, the rods typically have the characteristics of being lightweight, flexible, and long-lasting. They are also less expensive than graphite rods despite being able to perform just as well without breaking.
4. Weight
The weight of the rod is very much determined by the material that it is made of. Plastic, on the other hand, is typically the lightest material, but it is not recommended for use with children because of how easily it breaks. Consider purchasing rods made of fiberglass or composite material because they are not only lightweight but also very durable. Check the exact weight of the rod under the specifications before placing an order for it, as this will help you determine whether or not your child will be able to comfortably handle it.
5. Additional child-friendly angling accessories
It would be in your best interest to give some thought to purchasing a fishing rod that comes with additional accessories that make it simpler and more pleasant for your child to fish. For instance, some fishing rods and reels sold together come with casting plugs, bobbers, extra hooks, and snap swivels that are helpful for novice anglers as they learn their craft. On the other hand, you could acquire a rod and reel separately and then add the safety accessories to the setup.
6. Tangle free rods
The task of teaching your children how to fish is not an easy one and if you do not purchase a suitable rod, your children will tangle the line. Imagine a rod that has a line wound around the inside of the shaft. Because they never become tangled, products of this kind are particularly well-suited for use with young children.
Any Additional Tips For Picking The Right Rod For A Young Angler?
When selecting a fishing rod for your children, in addition to the features we’ve discussed above, you should also keep in mind the following important considerations:
1. Fishing location
Do you intend to fish from a boat on the shore of a fishing pond, a stream, or a lake? If you are going to be trolling from the boat, rather than casting into a smaller lake or pond, you should use stronger rods.
2. Your kid’s fishing experience
If your children already have some experience fishing, you might want to think about teaching them how to use fly rods rather than those who are just getting started in the sport. Not only the ideal length of the rod but also the type, is established based on the angler’s level of experience. You could also go with larger open-faced reels because these reels already have a better understanding of how to manage the line as you cast and reel in your catch.
3. Your child’s age
Older children can begin their fishing adventures with open-faced spinning reels or fly rods under your supervision. It is much simpler to teach younger children how to use fly rods than it is to teach older children or toddlers. Therefore, spinning rods paired with closed reels are the best way to go when dealing with children aged two to four years old.
Key Takeaways
Finding the right fishing rod and other gear for your child is part of getting them ready to fish. To begin, you should always take into consideration closed-faced reels made of sturdy material, shorter, tangle-free rods that are lightweight, and rods with closed faces that are made of rods that are shorter. In order to better prepare your child for fishing as an adult, you should begin to teach them how to use open-faced spinning rods and fly rods as their experience grows. As your child gains experience, you may also want to think about purchasing graphite rods for them so they can better detect even the most subtle bites.
