Your first fishing trip: a beginner's checklist

Everything you need for your first day of fishing: a license, simple gear, bait, where to go and what to do when you hook a fish.

By the FreeFish team · 3 min read · Updated October 14, 2026

Fishing does not need to be complicated or expensive. With a simple setup, a little planning and a good spot, you can catch fish on your very first trip. This checklist covers everything you need.

1. Get a fishing license

In most US states, anyone over a certain age (often 16) needs a fishing license, even to fish from shore. You can usually buy one online from your state's fish and wildlife agency in a few minutes, or at a sporting goods store. Many states also offer free fishing days when no license is needed. Read our guide on licenses and regulations for details.

2. Get a simple rod and reel

A spinning rod and reel combo is the best place to start. A 6 to 7 foot medium-light or medium rod, pre-spooled with 6 to 10 lb monofilament line, handles everything from bluegill to bass and is easy to learn. Pre-matched combos are inexpensive and perfectly good.

For young kids, a spincast ("push-button") reel is the easiest to use.

3. Pack a small tackle box

• Hooks in a few sizes (size 6 to 10 for panfish, size 1 to 2 for bigger fish).
• Split shot sinkers to get bait down.
• A few bobbers (floats).
• A couple of simple lures: an inline spinner, a small soft plastic worm with hooks, and a small crankbait.
• Needle-nose pliers or a hook remover.
• Line clippers or nail clippers.

4. Choose your bait

Live bait is the easiest way to catch fish when you are starting out. Nightcrawlers or red worms catch almost everything. Wax worms and small minnows are great for panfish and crappie. Buy them at a bait shop and keep them cool and out of the sun. Check your local regulations on live bait. Many states restrict moving minnows between waters or using certain bait to prevent the spread of invasive species and disease.

5. Pick an easy spot

• Small lakes and ponds in public parks often have lots of bluegill and easy shoreline access.
• Fishing piers and docks put you over deeper water with cover.
• Many state agencies stock local ponds, especially for kids and families.

Open the map in FreeFish to find lakes, rivers and public access near you, and check today's weather before you go.

6. Set up the classic bobber rig

1. Tie a hook to the end of your line with an improved clinch or Palomar knot.
2. Pinch one or two small split shot onto the line about 6 to 12 inches above the hook.
3. Clip a bobber onto the line, 2 to 4 feet above the hook. Adjust it so your bait hangs above the bottom or weeds.
4. Thread a piece of worm onto the hook, covering the point.

7. Cast, wait and watch

Cast near cover such as weeds, a dock or a fallen tree. Watch your bobber. When it dips under or moves away steadily, reel up any slack and lift the rod firmly to set the hook. If you get nibbles but no fish, try a smaller hook or less bait.

8. Land and handle the fish

• Keep the rod tip up and reel steadily. Don't yank.
• Wet your hands before handling a fish to protect its slime coat.
• Watch for spines on the fins. Smooth the dorsal fin down from front to back as you grip.
• Remove the hook with pliers. If it is swallowed deeply, cut the line close to the hook rather than ripping it out.
• Release it gently, headfirst, into the water, or keep it if it is legal and you plan to eat it.

9. Bring the essentials

• Your license (on your phone or printed).
• Sunscreen, a hat and polarized sunglasses. Glasses also protect your eyes from flying hooks.
• Water, snacks, and bug spray.
• A life jacket if you are on a boat, kayak or fishing near deep or moving water, especially for kids.
• A small bag to take your trash and old line home.

What next?

Once you have caught a few fish, learn where fish live through the year in where fish are in every season, and try new species with our guides to panfish and largemouth bass.