Some of the best fishing memories start small: a snapper blue from the dock, a just-keeper fluke from the bay, and that first schoolie striper from the surf. Whether your young angler is just learning to cast or ready to step up to big-kid gear, our staff picks will keep them comfortable, safe, and fishing hard from ice-out to the fall run.
Above: Jimmy Fee works a glidebait for spring stripers in Massachusetts.
Outcast Lures Custom Fishing Lure Kits
Inspire the next generation of plug builders with this kit that includes 2 wooden lure bodies, paint and brushes, and all the necessary hardware for the kids to design, rig, and fish their own custom lures. Just follow the step-by-step instructions, then let them proudly display (or cast) their new creation. $40; outcastkits.com
HUK Kids KC Icon Performance Hoodie
For the young one who prefers a fishing rod to an iPad, this hoodie offers lightweight comfort and UPF 50+ sun protection in a moisture-wicking, quick-drying package. A breathable mesh back panel helps to regulate temperature, and the raglan sleeves leave ample room to cast freely.
Zebco Rhino 30 Spinning Combo
A step up from the classic spincaster, this combo suits the young angler who’s ready to graduate to a “big kid” setup. It pairs a 6’6” two-piece rod with a reel that can hold up to 480 yards of 15-pound braid and dishes out 13 pounds of drag—more than enough power and line capacity for panfish, bass, trout, and catfish.
FishBites EZ Bait
Leave the bait bucket at home with these pre-formed scented strip baits that can be rigged fast and keep the kids mess-free. It comes in Fast Acting and Longer Lasting formulas, with a solid lineup of scents including shrimp, crab, squid, clam, and more.
XTRATUF Kids Ankle Deck Boot
Built specifically for kids to wear on the boat or at the dock, this boot’s SRA-rated outsole is non-marking and slip-resistant to reduce the likelihood of spills and tumbles. It’s fully waterproof with a breathable mesh liner and a foam footbed for comfort, running 6 inches tall in kids’ sizes C7 through 7.
Mustang Child and Youth Rev Foam Vest
When it comes to young ones wearing a PFD, comfort is a big deal. The Mustang Survival Rev Foam Vest has a breathable mesh back and uses segmented foam panels for unrestricted movement. The front zipper, buckle closure, and adjustable fit keep the vest secure, and the ripstop outer fabric adds durability.
Old Town Heron Junior
At just 26 pounds, this kayak is easy for kids and parents to carry to the water. Its 7’5” hull is nimble and stable, while the padded, contoured seat keeps young paddlers comfortable. A roomy cockpit provides space for snacks and some fishing gear, and the Tag Along Tow System lets parents keep tired paddlers close or tow them back to shore.
Nat Pat Mosquito Repellent Sticker
Keep the bugs at bay without spraying harsh repellents on young skin. These kid-friendly stickers are infused with a blend of essential oils, including citronella, lemon, and lavender, and stick right onto clothing, hats, or a backpack strap. They come in bright, fun designs, so getting the kids to wear them won’t be a battle. $24.99; natpat.com
Ugly Stik GX2
Ugly Stik’s famously tough blend of graphite and fiberglass, now sized for smaller anglers. The 5’6″ two-piece medium-power rod has a shrink-tube and EVA split grip made for little hands, plus the signature Clear Tip for extra strength where it’s needed most. It comes paired with a 30-size reel that has four bearings and 10 pounds of drag.
PENN Pursuit V Spinning Combo
For the teenager who’s ready to move up to the biggest game in the salt, this combo pairs a graphite-composite rod and PENN’s stainless steel Dura-Guides with a reel that has four sealed stainless bearings and the HT-100 drag system. With reel sizes from 2500 to 8000 and rods for inshore, surf, and nearshore fishing, there’s a setup for everything from fluke to stripers. Starting at $104.99; pennfishing.com
Simms Kids Tributary Waders and Boots
Give the young angler the same wading gear as the grown-ups. The Tributary Stockingfoot Waders are breathable, with a 3-layer upper, a tougher 4-layer lower, neoprene booties, and built-in gravel guards. A grab handle on the back lets parents keep a close hold in deeper water.
Pair them with the Tributary Wading Boot, which has a lugged rubber outsole that accepts studs, a full neoprene lining, and a gusseted tongue to keep out gravel. Waders $230, boots $150; simmsfishing.com
AFTCO Youth Coastal Layer Hoodie
This lightweight, ultra-soft fleece is made for cool mornings on the water. It has UPF 50 sun protection, wicks moisture and dries quickly, and a DWR finish sheds spray and light rain. Zippered hand pockets keep small treasures from going overboard.