It won’t be long before boaters and shore fisherman will hit the water in search of their favorite gamefish. For beginning anglers, it can be both exciting and a little overwhelming.
Whether you’re headed to a local pond or planning a day trip to a nearby lake, having the right gear and supplies can make all the difference between a successful outing and a frustrating experience. To ease the pressure, below is a checklist to help you prepare for a fun, safe and memorable day on the water.
Fishing gear essentials
A rod and reel: For beginners, a 5- to 6-foot medium action rod paired with a spincasting reel is a great choice. This combination is easy to operate, relatively inexpensive, and versatile enough to handle a variety of fish — from small panfish to larger bass or catfish.
Fishing line: Eight-pound monofilament line (commonly known as mono) is both durable and affordable. Its strength and simplicity make it a favorite among novice anglers.
Hooks: A #6 hook is recommended as it works well for both panfish and larger species.
Bobbers: A round, 1.5-inch plastic bobber is a great starting point, providing ample buoyancy for surface fishing.
Weights: Quarter-ounce split-shot weights are easy to attach and remove using needle-nose pliers. It’s a smart idea to bring extras of these items in case you lose a few during the day.
Tools: A pair of needle-nose pliers is an essential tool for removing hooks from your catch safely and efficiently.
Bait and tackle: Whether using earthworms, redworms, minnows or maggots as bait, remember to pack plenty. Additionally, bringing spare tackle (extra hooks, bobbers and weights) ensures you’re prepared for any mishaps.
Safety, comfort and convenience
Bucket: A large bucket is indispensable. Use it to store gear, hold your bait, or even as a makeshift seat while you wait for a bite. It’s also handy for keeping your catch cool until you’re ready to head home.
Sun protection: Don’t forget your hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Spending long hours outdoors can lead to painful sunburns, so protecting your skin is crucial.
Refreshments and lunch: Fishing can be a long and sometimes tiring day. Pack a lunch and plenty of water (or your favorite beverage) to keep your energy up.
Rain gear: Weather is unpredictable. Bringing along rain gear ensures that a sudden downpour won’t ruin your day.
Personal Hygiene: Carry a rag or paper towels to clean your hands. This is especially important after handling bait and fish. Plus, remember not to litter.
Other essentials
Camera: Capture your fun moments and any big catches with your camera or smartphone.
Fishing license: If applicable, check with state wildlife officials to ensure you have the proper fishing license before heading out.
Patience: When fishing, patience is key. Fishing requires time and persistence, and sometimes the best moments happen when you least expect them.
Final thoughts
Fishing is not just about catching fish — it’s about enjoying the great outdoors, connecting with nature, and experiencing moments of peace and excitement. Equip yourself with the right tools, take care of your personal needs, and remember that sometimes the real catch of the day is the experience itself.
Good fishing!
About Hooked
“Hooked” is a comic strip based on characters taken from the book “Learn To Fish, A Step-By-Step Guide For Beginning Anglers.” It features a multicultural cast of teens who love to fish and decide to form a fishing club in Cleveland. See “Hooked” monthly right here on the Signal Cleveland website produced in partnership with Dennis James Knowles and Gail Ann Grizzell of Cleveland’s The Fishing Foundation.
Ohio does not require those under 16 to have a fishing license. Read more on Ohio fishing laws here.
About The Fishing Foundation
“Hooked” is produced by longtime Cleveland anglers Dennis Knowles and Gail Grizzell, founders of The Fishing Foundation (TFF), a non-profit organization in Northeast Ohio that takes teens fishing. Through events, mentorship programs, and hands-on training, TFF provides unique opportunities for individuals from underserved communities to connect with nature and each other.
Beyond instruction, the foundation provides participants with rods, reels, bait, tackle and even a souvenir T-shirt. At each event, attendees enjoy lunch and refreshments while building skills and confidence. And as a lasting memento, each child gets to keep their rod and reel. TFF’s flagship project, “Learn to Fish: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginning Anglers,” is a guidebook that equips beginner anglers with the knowledge they need to succeed at fishing.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a complete beginner, The Fishing Foundation, and the adventures of “Hooked,” can help. Spend time in Cleveland’s beautiful parks, lakes and rivers and experience the benefits of connecting with nature.
The great outdoors is waiting for you—make 2025 the year you get “hooked” on fishing!
The Fishing Foundation
