Equipment required

Fishing licenses are legally required regardless of the state you are fishing in. You can purchase either a 24 hour license or a year round (March 31st to the folloing March next year) from any big box retail store to any outdoor stores, and even at small mom and pops bait shops. It is very important to follow all rules and regulations while fishing to prevent any ticket fees and possible revocation of fishing license. This will also help your local DNR maintain upkeep to your state parks which will lead to your local wildlife fully thrive in their natural habitats.

There are three types of materials rods can be made out of. First we have fiberglass rods, which is most common out of the three selection. Fibberglass rods have been have been around for decades they are strong and can endure alot of wear and tear. They're also easy to make which makes them affordable. Secondly we have graphite rods created in the 1970's, which offer a lighter alternative to fiberglass they are also very popular choice. And lastly we have composite rods, these rods were designed to be very veratile so its a great choice if you plan on fishing a variety of different waters ,but there is no denying it they can be the most expensive choice out of the three.

Up next we have the different types of reels we can choose from. First up we have spincast, a great introduction fishing reel for children or beginners. The mechanics are very simple and require little effort. Using a button system all you have to do is press down the buttom and cast your line out. Another type of fishing reel we have is the spinning reel, which is definitely the most popular among all anglers. spinning reels unlike casts are an open faced reel which can we used for many different types of lures & baits. And last but not least we have baitcasters, also known as the conventional reel. Baitcasters are for the more experienced/advanced anglers who want better control and accuracy.The main difference is the spool rotates as you cast which often requires a full seasons worth or practice before they can be used.

There are three main types of fishing line which are commonly used. First we have is monofilament, most popular type of fishing line and also comes in a large variety of strengths and colors. Secondly we have braid which is the strongest, but can be on the pricey side. It is also heavier than most fishing lines which means it sinks faster and castst farther. Lastly there is flurocarbon which is often used as leader material because it's completely invisible underwater.I wouldn't use this line as your main line.

We have finally gottten to my favorite part, lures & baits. there is so many different types I will limit the amount to the most commonly used. First we have to from live and non-line bait, the most commonlyused live bait in the clasic hook and worm, but you can also use minnows, shrimp, and even leeches. Now for non-live baits there are categories such crankbaits, soft plastics, and topwater. A couple examples for each would be square bill crank bait and lipless crankbait. As for soft plastics it pretty much is what it sounds like these are your fake worms, crawfish, and minnows. And lastly we have topwater which is frogs, whopperploppers, and poppers.