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10 Best Kids Fishing Rods 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

WIDDEN 2 Pack Kids Fishing Pole, Portable Telescopic Kids Fishing Poles Set for Boys and Girls, Fishing Rod and Reel Combo Kit with Tackle Box, and Fishing Net, Best Fishing Pole for Toddler Youth

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,482
Reel Type

Most important from
911 reviews

Reel Type
Despite one pole breaking, the second one proved to be sturdy and can reel in heavier weights than other kids' fishing poles.

The WIDDEN 2 Pack Kids Fishing Pole is thoughtfully designed for young fishing enthusiasts, offering a complete kit that includes two different colored poles, a tackle box, nets, and an assortment of fishing accessories. This set is perfect for encouraging children over five years old to explore fishing, making it a great gift idea for various occasions. The telescopic design makes it easy to transport, fitting compactly in a backpack without assembly required, which is particularly appealing for family outings or trips to the lake.

Constructed from four-layer fiberglass, the rods promise durability and flexibility, crucial for beginners who are still learning the nuances of fishing. This material resists rust and breakage, ensuring safety for kids. The handle features a soft EVA grip that remains non-slip even when wet, enhancing control and comfort during use. The spin-cast reel is designed to be both stylish and environmentally friendly with electroplating that avoids unpleasant odors.

While the fishing rods are ultra-light, they might not be suitable for larger fish, limiting their use to smaller species. The kit's inclusion of a double-layer tackle box and foldable buckets provides a structured way to carry various fishing necessities, appealing to parents seeking convenience. However, the lightweight nature might not provide the sturdiness needed for more intense fishing experiences.

The WIDDEN kids fishing set combines portability and usability, tailored for young beginners who are just starting to learn the art of fishing. It caters well to the needs of toddlers and youth by ensuring ease of use and safety, but it is best suited for smaller fishing endeavors.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,482
Reel Type

Most important from
911 reviews

Reel Type
Despite one pole breaking, the second one proved to be sturdy and can reel in heavier weights than other kids' fishing poles.
#2

ODDSPRO Kids Fishing Pole - Kids Fishing Starter Kit - with Tackle Box, Reel, Practice Plug, Beginner's Guide and Travel Bag for Boys, Girls

Rating
9.8
Length

Most important from
4444 reviews

Length
Ideal size for young children, making it highly recommended for beginners.

The ODDSPRO Kids Fishing Pole is designed as a comprehensive starter kit for kids aged 3 to 15 who are interested in fishing. This fishing rod and reel combo comes with a tackle box filled with various fishing lures and accessories, making it versatile for different fishing scenarios. The collapsible design and included travel bag make it easily portable, appealing for family outings or vacations. The choice of carbon fiber for the rod material not only ensures lightweight handling but also adds durability, which is excellent for children learning the ropes of fishing.

With rod lengths available at 1.2, 1.5, and 1.8 meters, it caters to a broad age range and varying heights of young anglers. The medium power rating of the rod, paired with a spincast reel, is a suitable combination that balances ease of use with enough strength to handle a typical fishing experience for kids. The inclusion of a soft casting plug is a thoughtful addition, allowing kids to practice casting safely.

There are some considerations to note. The kit uses a monofilament line with a line capacity of 6 pounds, which might limit the size of fish that can be comfortably caught. While the spincast reel is user-friendly, it's not as durable as higher-end reels, meaning it might require careful handling. Additionally, the rod handle is designed for right-hand orientation, which could be a limitation for left-handed users. The ODDSPRO Kids Fishing Pole's simplicity and complete package make it a great gift option and a practical choice for beginners. It provides an engaging way for kids to learn and enjoy fishing, although more seasoned young anglers might eventually seek more advanced equipment as they grow more experienced.

Rating
9.8
Length

Most important from
4444 reviews

Length
Ideal size for young children, making it highly recommended for beginners.
#3

Zebco Kids Rambler Telescopic Spincast Reel and Fishing Rod Combo, 24.5-Inch to 5-Foot 3-Inch Telescopic Fishing Pole, Changeable Right- or Left-Hand Retrieve, Pre-Spooled with 8-Pound Line, Black

Rating
9.6
Power
Reel Type

Most important from
568 reviews

Power
The Zebco Rambler is an awesome portable rod that feels good, casts smoothly, and held up against a variety of fish, including 4-5lbs bass and 10-15lbs catfish.
Reel Type
This rod is great for catching smaller fish like white and yellow perch, though it might not handle big catfish well due to the reel gears.

The Zebco Kids Rambler Telescopic Spincast Reel and Fishing Rod Combo is a well-designed option for young anglers, particularly those aged 10-14. The rod extends from 24.5 inches to 5 feet 3 inches, making it both compact and versatile. This telescopic feature, along with a built-in carabiner, offers excellent portability, ideal for young outdoor enthusiasts who like to hike or camp.

The combination of a moderate action and medium power rod makes it suitable for catching a variety of fish like panfish, trout, and bass. The reel's all-metal gears and 3.9:1 gear ratio ensure smooth performance, while the QuickSet anti-reverse feature helps prevent handle backlash during a catch. Additionally, the reel is pre-spooled with an 8-pound line, so beginners can start fishing right away without having to fuss with setting up the line.

However, the rod's material is listed as a 'blend,' which might raise durability concerns over time compared to those made from higher-end materials like graphite or fiberglass. Also, while described as suitable for all experience levels, it may be slightly too advanced for kids younger than 10. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Zebco Rambler offers a user-friendly experience, especially with its no-tangle design and push-button mechanics, making it an excellent starter rod and reel combo for young anglers.

Rating
9.6
Power
Reel Type

Most important from
568 reviews

Power
The Zebco Rambler is an awesome portable rod that feels good, casts smoothly, and held up against a variety of fish, including 4-5lbs bass and 10-15lbs catfish.
Reel Type
This rod is great for catching smaller fish like white and yellow perch, though it might not handle big catfish well due to the reel gears.

Buying Guide for the Best Kids Fishing Rods

Choosing the right fishing rod for kids can make a big difference in their fishing experience. The right rod will be easy for them to handle, durable enough to withstand some rough use, and suitable for the type of fishing they will be doing. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a fishing rod for kids, along with explanations to help you make the best choice.
LengthThe length of a fishing rod is important because it affects how far and accurately a child can cast. Shorter rods, typically between 3 to 4 feet, are easier for young children to handle and are great for fishing in small ponds or streams. Medium-length rods, around 5 to 6 feet, offer a balance of casting distance and control, making them suitable for older kids or those fishing in larger bodies of water. Longer rods, over 6 feet, are generally better for more experienced young anglers who need to cast further distances. Choose a length that matches your child's age, strength, and the type of fishing they will be doing.
MaterialFishing rods are made from various materials, each with its own benefits. Fiberglass rods are durable and can withstand rough handling, making them a good choice for younger children. They are also more affordable. Graphite rods are lighter and more sensitive, which can help older kids feel bites more easily, but they can be more fragile. Composite rods combine both materials, offering a balance of durability and sensitivity. Consider your child's age and experience level when choosing the material.
PowerPower refers to the rod's ability to handle different weights of fish. Ultra-light and light power rods are suitable for catching small fish like panfish or trout, making them ideal for young children. Medium power rods can handle a wider range of fish sizes, which is good for older kids who might encounter larger fish. Heavy power rods are designed for big fish and are generally not necessary for most kids. Choose a power level that matches the type of fish your child will be targeting.
ActionAction describes how much and where a rod bends when pressure is applied. Fast action rods bend mostly at the tip and are good for quick hook sets, making them suitable for older kids with some fishing experience. Medium action rods bend more towards the middle, offering a balance of sensitivity and strength, which is great for a variety of fishing situations. Slow action rods bend throughout the entire length, providing more flexibility and making them easier for young children to handle. Consider your child's skill level and the type of fishing they will be doing when choosing the action.
HandleThe handle of a fishing rod should be comfortable and easy for a child to grip. Handles are typically made from materials like cork or EVA foam. Cork handles are lightweight and provide a good grip, but they can be more expensive. EVA foam handles are durable and comfortable, making them a good choice for kids. The length of the handle is also important; shorter handles are easier for small hands to manage, while longer handles can provide more leverage for older kids. Choose a handle that feels comfortable for your child to hold and use.
Reel TypeThe type of reel that comes with the rod can affect how easy it is for a child to use. Spincast reels are the easiest for kids to use because they have a simple push-button mechanism. They are great for beginners. Spinning reels require a bit more skill to operate but offer better casting distance and accuracy, making them suitable for older kids with some fishing experience. Baitcasting reels are generally not recommended for children due to their complexity. Choose a reel type that matches your child's skill level and experience.

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