10 Best Kids’ Fishing Poles & Rods Reviewed in 2024
Brian Price
Fishing poles for kids come in many sizes and are for different skill levels. Once the kids have mastered the fishing games at home, it is time to take them out on their first fishing trip. There are a ton of kid-friendly fishing poles on the market. These rods are shorter, made from lightweight materials, feature simple mechanics, and are generally less expensive than adult rods.
We have created a list of the best fishing poles for kids that are available on the market. The market features many rods and it can become frustrating weeding through them to find what you are looking for. We have already done the research and found the best. Here is the list; the rest is up to you.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 17 hrs of research
Fishing rod and reel combo set with tackle
Perfect kid size and designed rod
Complete set with line and tackle
Rod measures 3.94 feet long
Great introductory tackle set
10 Best Kids' Fishing Poles Reviewed
1. PLUSINNO Portable Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
Fishing rod and reel combo set with tackle
Perfect kid size and designed rod
Complete set with line and tackle
Rod measures 3.94 feet long
Great introductory tackle set
Reel can be hard to operate without adult supervision
Adult supervision required to assemble when received
Give the little ones that fishing experience that they are looking for with this fishing rod and reel combo set. It provides hours of endless fishing fun with everything that has been included. It is a complete set that includes a rod, reel, fishing line, and even all the tackle that they will need to catch their first fish. It is an exciting set that will not disappoint.
Read moreDesign
Make that fishing trip fun for the parents and the little ones with this perfect sized child rod. The rod and reel are the perfect sizes for them to be able to control and learn how to really fish, which is fun for the parents to watch and enjoy spending some quality time together. The set even includes lots of different kinds of tackle that makes the experience of fishing fun and a learning experience.
Age Range
The rod and reel are just the perfect size for the little hands and kid length arms. It measures in at 3.94 feet long and weighs just a little over 2 ounces. This makes it is the perfect size for basically any child that can express an interest in fishing. Along with adult supervision, this is the perfect rod for a large age range.
Value
It is all about the combo. This rod and reel combo set along with tackle and line includes everything that your little one needs to catch their first fish. It has every piece and more that they will need to get started making the job of the parents easier and the experience of fishing for everyone enjoyable. It gives them the opportunity to own all the fun tackle that comes with fishing without having to pick each piece out.
2. Learning Resources 11 Pieces
Functioning fishing rod and reel
Embedded magnet in pole and plastic fish
Tackle box to store everything
An activity book that has fish games included inside
Can be played with while in the bathtub
Not recommended for kids under the age of three
A fantastic set from Learning Resources that supplies a child with all the elements of an actual fishing trip. The set includes a plastic 11-inch fishing pole with reel, which has embedded magnets that make it possible for it to catch one of the three colorful fish that are included as well. But these are just a few of the features in this fun-filled set. Kids will also get plastic worms to use for bait, an authentic looking fishing vest, and a fishing net. Rounding out the collection is an activity book that will add to the fun experience of imaginary play.
Read moreDesign
An excellent way for a child to learn how to cast a fishing pole accurately. Teaches how to go about hooking a fish as well. Through the process, a child will get the same benefits as actual fishing which is better motor skills and deteriority.
Age Range
Good for children from around 6 years up to ten as a toy with a range of simple but fun accessories. This can be the toy which acts as a stepping stone towards trying out real fishing.
Value
Sharpens a child’s imagination skills by supplying them with all the elements to mimic an actual fishing trip.
3. Munchkin Bath Toy
Easy to hold the magnetic fishing reel
Three brightly colored bath characters
Ideal for ages 2 and up
Characters are watertight to prevent mold and mildew
String remains stationary doesn’t actually go up and down in a spinning feature
Turn bath time into fishing time with this fun, interactive toy. Featured here is a little plastic fishing rod that a child can hold in their hands and has a magnetic lure. The rod can pick up one of the three adorable little magnetic aquatic characters that can be placed in the bathtub with the child. These little characters include an octopus, a fish, and a scuba diver. The rod is designed to fit perfectly into a toddlers hands and will also make a clicking sound that will no doubt delight the child.
Read moreDesign
Develops good hand coordination as the child works the reel. It will also work on eye coordination as the kid studies the various bright colors. Provides good imagination skills as well as the kid pretends they are fishing.
Age Range
Make bathtime into fun time with this delightful set which will work nicely for toddlers and children up to around 7 or 8 years old.
Value
An excellent way to get a toddler interested in fishing by allowing them a chance to play with a toy that makes bath time into their fishing trip.
4. Battat Magnetic 6-Pcs
Fishing pole set--fishing magnetic catching game
Each set includes two poles and four fish
Game features catching the fish with point values, the player with most points wins
Bright colors great for younger babies
Promotes hand-eye coordination
When fish are placed in water, they float sideways making it hard to "catch" them
Magnets in the "hooks" are not super-strong
Nothing is better than watching the little kids catch fish without having to worry about them being around a real body of water. This fishing pool set includes a fishing game that has four fish and fishing rods that wind up. The reels actually really work when they are wound by the handle. Each of the fishing rods features a magnetic "hook" that easily "catches" the fish as they pass by. Then the kids are able to turn the handle of the reel and bring them in. The game included with the fishing pole set is a tournament-type game. Each of the fish has a number value printed on it. When the kids "catch" the fish, the points add up quickly and the winner of the game is the player with the most points at the end of the round. All of the items included with the set are brightly colored and are perfect for even babies as young as 10 months old. All of the pieces have been tested and meet all the safety regulations. This fishing pole set it great for little hands that seek big adventures.
Read moreDesign
Fishing poles and this fishing game are a great way to promote hand-eye coordination. When using the fishing pole to "catch" the fish, the kids have to line the hook up with the mouth of the fish to "hook" them on. Mastering this skill set is great practice for anyone’s hand-eye coordination.
Age Range
A colorful and attractive rod and line set which will be certain to bring a happy smile to very young children, starting at around a year old and up to any age where a child still shows that the toy set gives pleasure.
Value
What a wonderful fishing pole and fish set to teach the little ones all about fishing without having to leave the house or be near water. The game that is included is fun to play once they get the hang of learning to "catch" the fish.
5. Tolo Toys Funtime Bath
Fishing pole, fish, and fun worm set
Magnetic worm catches fish
Fishing pole features wind-up reel
Set includes a fishing pole and two brightly colored fish
Encourages children to engage in creative play time
Fishing pole can be reeled both ways, no stop to prevent from breaking
Fish hold water and don’t drain easily
Fishing is fun for the little ones with a fishing pole and cute little worm on the end that is used as bait. This set includes three fish that are brightly colored and are ready to be caught right up. This is a great toy for bath time. Place the fish in the water with them and teach them how to blow the bubbles with the worm to attract the fish. Then once the fish "get" on to the magnetic hook, they can be reeled in. This fishing set makes bath time so much fun along with also being a learning experience. You can turn catching the fish in the tub into a game to see who can catch the most fish. From playtime to clean time, this fishing pole and the fun fish set are great for the little ones.
Read moreDesign
Encouraging children to play in the bathtub allows sparks their imaginations. Catching the fish and "releasing" them back into the water is beneficial pretend play that promotes their cognitive development, teaches cause and effect and hones their problem-solving skills.
Age Range
There are good reasons to introduce toddlers to this cute fishing set, they will love using it to catch the three colorful fish during bath times. Suggested ages from around 2 years upwards.
Value
The cute little worm included with this set is one of the best features. It blows bubbles and attaches to the fish.
6. Small World Toys Sand and Water
18-inch plastic fishing rod
Battery operated Bass with realistic movements
2 magnetic lures to choose from
Works effectively in pool or bathtub
Requires 2 AA batteries not included
With this realistic toy fishing set, a child can have a chance to learn what it would feel like to catch a fish. The rod works like the real thing with an actual spinning reel. However, this reel has a unique feature of a magnetic lure, which makes it ideal to catch the battery operated bass which is included in the set. As for the bass, it will swim around in either a pool or bathtub and the child can go about using their casting skills to catch it. Once caught it will act exactly like a hooked fish would putting up a fight and wiggling around.
Read moreDesign
Kids will have a chance to practice fishing in a realistic way. Gives them a chance to experience first hand what catching a fish will actually entail. A good first toy to introduce them to the sport before they actually participate in the actual sport.
Age Range
For children at an age where they are still young but have started to look for realism, this is a great fishing set, with mechanical fish which will actually swim through the water. This is an ideal gift for a child who may well move forward towards taking up real fishing.
Value
Designed to illustrate the great fun that can be found in fishing. Will delight and amuse a child for hours.
7. Sougayilang Freshwater & Saltwater
Durable telescopic/collapsible rod
Easy to handle spinning reel that repels water
90-day full warranty
Option to buy a full accessory kit
Guides become loose with continuous use
Looking for a quality fishing rod and reel combo that comes with accessories if desired then look no further. First, there is the rod which has the feature of telescoping in length and collapsing for convenient storage. It is made out of the quality 24-ton carbon and fiberglass combination that rods from Sougayilang are known for, which makes it built to last. Included in the reel which is interchangeable in its position on the rod, which means it can be used with either the right or left hand. It has easy to manage rotary switches and is made out of quality stainless steel. As for those looking for a complete set that includes even lures, weights, bobbers and an assortment of hooks, there is an option to buy a full kit as well.
Read moreDesign
Excellent opportunity to let an older kid help make the choice of which set they would like to have. A skill in itself that a kid will carry through life, making up your mind and living with your choice. Makes a good option for kids that are starting to take fishing seriously. Even starting to get involved in it more seriously, than just as a casual hobby.
Age Range
This is good for children from around 8 or 9 years old and looking to enter in real fishing. The kit comes with a real rod and real functional accessories.
Value
Compact enough for travel and a camping trip. A good option for older kids and even adults to consider purchasing.
8. Penn Spinfisher V & VI
Durable easy to manage rod
Comes in a variety of sizes
Watertight spinning reel
Stainless steel guides
The reel is a bit stiff to crank at first
Another fishing rod and reel that can grow with a kid. Why, because this one comes in various sizes. Once a kid learns how to use it at the smallest size they can continue to upgrade as the years go on. The rod is made to not only be heavy duty but is lightweight along with being ultrasensitive as well. As for the fishing reel, it is made out of fine stainless steel and has a five shielded ball bearing drive and an instant anti-reverse feature. It has a waterproof feature as well that will make it ideal for freshwater and saltwater fishing. The reel comes pre-spooled with the line already inside.
Read moreDesign
Rod provides plenty of control to tackle the bigger fish. However, it is sensitive enough to feel to the smaller fish on the line as well. A kid will feel like they have mastered the sport in no time at all. Useful for providing better self-confidence and self-esteem
Age Range
Great fishing kit, as real as it gets and good for children from around 8 years and upwards, as they grow older they can add more of the real accessories to their kit.
Value
Versatile in its size and all the necessary components of a quality rod and reel. Suitable for all forms of fishing, and to help a kid master them.
9. Shakespeare 1363676 Disney Frozen
Set includes a fishing rod, Spincast reel (closed cast), tackle and fishing line
Lightweight and compact design easy for travel and storage
Perfect sized fishing rod
Easy to use and set up
Telescopic pole with three sections
No setup or instruction booklet included
Fishing line included with the set is short (about 25 feet)
Included with this set are a telescopic kid sized fishing pole, one Spincast reel, fishing line, and all the necessary fishing accessories. The set is great for setting kids up to fish with everything that they see the adults using and more. It is a lightweight rod that is easy to use and perfect design for traveling along with storing after the fun is done.
Read moreDesign
The rod has been constructed from a plastic material that is durable and collapses. When the rod is fully extended it measures at 47.24 inches long and when it is collapsed down it measures at 15.55 inches long. The rod features three sections that collapse down into each other making it super easy to carry along on all the adventures plus storing is simple.
Age Range
Recreating your favorite childhood memories with this fishing rod and reel combo is easy at any range. The rod is not designed for a specific age range of children. It is based on the skill level and assistance that is required or needed by an adult. If you and your little one are ready to experience the fishing fun then this rod is for you guys. It is easy to use, lightweight, and compact.
Value
Fishing with kids is a fun adventure for all. This combo makes it easy to prepare and get the kids out of the house and by the water. It includes everything that is required to be able to catch a fish in one set. It is a one stop shopping pick that is fun for all.
10. Zebco Dock Demon Spinning
Durable and strong solid core designed rod
Features EVA handle for comfort
Includes spooled pre lined with 6 pound test line
Reel with ball bearing drive and left or right handle retrieval
Reel line capacity : 135 yards
Drag on reel does not work well for capacity rating line
Pre spoiled fishing line is poor quality
It is the perfectly designed compact designed rod and reel for the kids. The biggest advantage brought by this rod and reel combo is the durable design. Designed just like the full size models this rod has all the features that they have but it is easy to handle and is the perfect size for those little ones that want to learn how to fish. The capacity and fishing line length are perfect for beginners plus even by chance they catch that ‘big one’ the rod will be able to handle the task.
Read moreDesign
The design of the rod is crazy durable. It features a solid core design with a z-glass durability all in a compact 30 inch fishing rod that is just the perfect size for the kids. It makes handling the rod and reel easy plus the reel even comes spooled and ready to go with fishing line that is 6 pound rated.
Age Range
The indestructible design along with compact size make this a great fishing pole for kids that range in age from 3 years old to 10 years old. Depending on the skill level is can also be used in other age ranges as well. Featuring a comfortable handle and an easy to grip reel it is a great setup for both beginners and kids that have been fishing for years.
Value
The durable and the changeability make this a great value. With the solid core design of the rod making it one of the strongest on the market along with the ball bearing drive reel plus a changeable handle to fit both left and right handed fishers making it a rod that will last many trips. From trip to trip, child to child, fish to fish this rod is designed to last.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Design
There are a lot of fishing poles on the market that are specially made for children. The ones that we chose for our list are shorter, made from lightweight materials, feature simple mechanics and are generally less expensive than regular rods. We made sure each product is kid-friendly and easy to use.
Age Range
If there is one skill in fishing that anyone taking up this sport will need to learn it is how to be patient. First, when mastering the proper technique for casting the line, a child will need to be patient and not become discouraged. Once the line is appropriately cast, it could take hours before anything is caught and the child will need to learn to deal with having to wait during this process. It will teach them that in life there are times when we have to wait, and in doing so, we have to be patient for our time to come. In learning this virtue while fishing, kids will develop a skill that will take them through life, about how not to be impatient during long waiting periods.
Value
Through fishing, a kid will learn how to make decisions. They will have to decide how far and where they are going to cast out their fishing line. The child will have to plan his/her movements and how to carefully go about each action so as to not scare the fish away, damage their fishing pole or tangle their line. These are ways for them to exercise their problem-solving skills and learn something about making decisions on their own.
Design Age Range Value 
Choosing fishing sets for a younger person, you should factor in a reasonable level of ease of use so that the child can grasp the concepts of fishing, Through play or going to learn to fish for real fish in the local river or lake, it is a good idea to select a fishing set which allows your child to quickly grasp the skills needed. Put in some research time to ensure that you are fully clued up on which kit will best work well for a child, you can check online via authentic review sites, search out customer comments as well because these comments will be a result of fishing sets which have been tried and tested in real time.
Look out for toys rods which offer more than just a pole and line, there are many products on the market which offer this type of toy with a range of accessories. These accessories have a learning value and teach the child how to combine these together to achieve playing aims. The aims are for a child to appreciate that by using accessories that they gain more purpose and a wider choice of outcomes. This will sharpen up a child's cognitive skills and steer the child towards critical thinking skills.
Other Factors to Consider
Accessories
Before children become adults they go through learning input which shapes who they will become as they journey through the milestones of life which steeple chase them towards adulthood. Fishing, this is a sport which requires a lot of patience, a lot of planning and a good memory because the accessories which go with fishing are extensive. In fact, the accessories even for a basic fishing rod run into the close on a hundred, if not more. The types of hooks, lures, floats, feathers, weights, different lines, reels, rods, clothing, require a person or child to develop not only a good memory for what they are used for but also patience, dexterity, and expertise for how to use so many accessories.
In this guide, we looked at fishing rods (poles) for very young children and the types of playful accessories which come with the product. The developments benefits are evident. We also looked at fishing rods for older children and this is when accessories very much start to come into play. A child starts to learn about the differences required for taking part in a sport, how to use different accessories to achieve different outcomes. The way these accessories work in combination with other accessories. This teaches children a sense of purpose and planning if fishing with family or friends they learn about the true meaning of teamwork and those moments when working alone can also be fulfilling.
Therefore, when you look for a fishing rod for your child, no matter what his or her age, look closely at the accessories in much the same way that we have sought out products through our comparative research. We believe we have found some very good choices which would not only be fun for children but also offer a string of subtle and positive learning benefits.
Ease of Use
Learning to control a fishing pole the right way has numerous benefits to the muscles and coordination of the body overall. In learning to fish, a kid will have to learn how to cast their line in the water correctly, reel the line in when necessary and balance on the shore properly so they don’t fall in and scare the fish! They will need to keep their arms still as they hold the rod, waiting for a bite. All these things will strengthen a child’s hands, arms, and legs. It will also provide better hand coordination and dexterity.
Emotional Development
A fishing trip is an ideal time to work on a parent-child relationship. After all, sitting around waiting for fish to bite is a perfect opportunity actually to talk. Somehow, just sitting there with nature all around can help a kid open up to his/her parents. It is an excellent way to create a stronger bond not only between a parent and child but as friends as well.
In a technology age where smartphones and laptops seem to have taken over, kids may lose an appreciation for the simpler things in life. A fishing trip is an excellent way to teach a child about how to live off the land, and actually, learn a skill that dates back thousands of years. The child will be able to understand what it’s like to fend for themselves to catch their food to eat.
Learning to fish has its educational benefits as well. Not only will they learn the valuable skill of how to use a fishing pole, but there will be other educational benefits as well. A child will learn more about the food chain, and about how Mother Nature has provided us with many things we can eat to survive. A kid will also learn that food doesn’t originate in a grocery store and that items such as fish are found in nature first.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: What is the right age to take a child fishing for the first time?
The right age to start teaching a kid how to fish on their own on an actual fishing trip is around the age of 3 to 5 years old. Before this, a child can be involved by observing the activity and they can also play with fishing toys that give them a chance to learn how to control a fishing pole before actually owning the real thing and heading to the lake to try their hand at the actual sport.
q: Can an adult fishing rod be handed down to a child?
Although this may seem like a tempting thing to do to save money, fishing rods aren’t one size fits all. Fishing poles designed for kids are smaller and lighter than the ones used by an adult. However, if the child has an older sibling who is ready for a bigger pole, and the one they had is still in mint condition, odds are that this one could be passed on provided the child is comfortable using it. Comfort is key when using a fishing pole because when a child is comfortable with it, they will be able to learn to use it properly.
q: What safety tips should be taught to a kid on a fishing trip?
The first thing to do is come up with a set of safety rules for the child to follow. That includes teaching them about water safety. Second, if the fishing is taking place on a boat, make sure to bring along personal floatation devices and teach the child how to properly wear it, not just for their well-being but also for your own.
Teaching a kid about the importance of proper casting and not swinging the pole around in every direction is also important. Remind them that a fishing pole is a piece of equipment, not a toy. Make sure the child is properly dressed for the fishing trip, with things such as boots, vest, hat, for example.
Last, but not least, consider using barbless hooks as they might be a safer option for younger kids to use.
q: What other necessary supplies are needed on a fishing trip?
Of course, all the necessary fishing equipment is needed. As for what else would be required, it would depend on when the fishing occurs. If it is during a camping trip, then all necessary supplies such as food and water, have already been packed. Same with a picnic or hiking trip.
However, if it is specifically a fishing trip, then other essentials such as bottled water, and food will be needed. Bring along a waterproof bag such as a backpack to take carry other essentials, which might include sunscreen with quality SPF protection, sunglasses with UV protection, a cell phone, wallet, and a map. Insect repellant is another essential to as is a first aid kit in case of cut or scrapes.
q: Can a left-handed child use a right-handed fishing pole?
There is no denying that a good portion of fishing poles, especially those designed for kids, are made for the right hand. Although, some we feature on our list have the ability to be used with either hand. So, in answer to this question, it would depend on how comfortable the child is in using their right hand. Even if they write with their left, they may still be comfortable using their right hand for other things such as lifting, pulling or throwing. If this is indeed the case, many of the kids’ fishing poles would still work for the child even if they are technically left-handed.
q: What if a kid outgrows their interest in fishing?
There is always a chance this will happen especially the older a child becomes. Their interests can change, they may want to spend more time with their friends and in school activities. They may not see this as something that they enjoyed doing any longer. Again, don’t push them to go fishing, accept their decision. In time this could change back as sometimes kids go through rebellious ages but eventually come around to wanting more quality time with their parents once more and going fishing certainly qualifies as such an experience.
Sources
- , 9 Amazing Reasons To Teach Your Kids How To Fish., Informative Guide
- , Fishing Rods for Kids, Informative Guide
- , The Benefits of Teaching a Child to Fish, Why to Guide
- , 7 Rules for Teaching Kids to Fish the right Way, Fishing Guide
- , Left- or Right-handed Reels: Which to Use?, Informative Guide
