Kid's Rod and Reel setups
 

Looking for a little advice from the parents posting here. My boss is looking to get an outfit for his two sons, 9 and 7, so I though I would check to see what other folks have picked up for the little ones. The fishing will be most saltwater for stripers in Gloucester both from shore as well as boat. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

IMO, From the boat: I have found that a bucket belt is very helpful for the kids. The inexpensive $ 10.00, little pad type. A forgiving soft rod, not too long ( of course dependent on the size of the kids) with a cut/short butt so the reel is in tight to their body, short arms. An open top bait caster is easiest for them to get accustomed to. Art

I bought 2 spin-cast models Zebco combos for my kids that have been great. model 808 reel wit 20lb mono and a decent fiberglass rod- was $40 for the combo. We've caught tons o' fish on the RI reefs with them-

I too think something like this is great for kids. Only thing I recomend if your getting the lighter set ups that usually are made for fresh water use. Make sure you keep maintnence on them as they wont last long if not.

My boys 4 and 7 love their Daiwa D Wave combos. I found them for around $20. This is the second season we are using them. I picked them up at M&D's last year.

The 4 year old lost one over the side last year but it was only $20 to replace it.

My little girl pulled in a 13" fluke on a Dora the explorer rod

I think the set up cost me $8......

but normaly I let them fish it out on walmart specials short handeled no point on buying top of the line when they are going trash it....

I was fishing the rocks with my 8yr old son I turned my back on him then i heard him yelling "DIE"

So I turned fast to see him trying to spear a river rat with the end of his rod