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7 Best Toddler Fishing Poles (2024 Reviews)

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Introducing your toddler to new activities is one of the most exciting joys of parenthood. Sharing new interests with your tots is not only a great way to teach them new skills, but it also creates an important bond between parents and children. Fishing helps coordination as well as placing a strong emphasis on focus, determination, and most importantly, patience. To ensure fishing is an enjoyable activity for both you and your child, find a high quality fishing pool that fits into small hands and is easy for a child to use. This selection of fishing rods, reels, and accessories are designed for toddlers and young children to be used with adult supervision. With both real and play fishing pole options available, you’re sure to find the best fit for your little one’s skill level.

The Best Toddler Fishing Poles

  • 1. Lanaak Kids Fishing Pole Rod and Reel Starter Kit

    (Best set for travel — $$)

    Why it’s great: With a specially designed carrying case for all 37 items in this rod and reel starter set, the Lanaak Kids Fishing Pole Rod and Reel Starter Kit is easy to bring on vacation and beyond. Pre-spooled, no assembly is required to get started.

    Keep in mind: The hooks included in the kit are on the larger size, so smaller hooks might be needed if looking to catch small fish.

    Good for: Families who want an easily portable fishing pole plus accessories to use on vacation.

    Lanaak Kids Fishing Pole Rod and Reel Starter Kit

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 2. PLUSINNO Portable Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Full Kits

    (Best option with multiple sizes — $$)

    Why it’s great: This lightweight and flexible rod is ergonomically built for small hands to easily manipulate. The innovative patented design provides a comfortable grip for all-day use.

    Keep in mind: The line can easily become tangled if still learning how to cast correctly.

    Good for: Parents looking for a toddler fishing pole option that is size appropriate.

    PLUSINNO Portable Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Full Kits

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 3. Shakespeare Iron Man Fishing Kit

    (Best all-in-one rod and reel option — $)

    Why it’s great: The Shakespeare Iron Man Fishing Kit all-in-one option offers a functional, simple design for a toddler’s first fishing pole. The on/off instant reverse bearing and EVA handle knob makes the mechanics of fishing accessible for little ones.

    Keep in mind: The toddler fishing pole doesn’t float, so be cautious when fishing in deep water to not drop it.

    Good for: Parents seeking a straightforward all-in-one reel and rod without additional accessories needed.

    Shakespeare Iron Man Fishing Kit

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 4. Magreel Kids Fishing Pole and Tackle Kit

    (Best for small hands — $$)

    Why it’s great: With a telescopic fishing rod, spinning reel, fishing line, fishing tackle, necessary fishing gears and travel bag, the Magreel Kids Fishing Pole and Tackle Kit has everything your child needs to begin fishing. Made from fiberglass with an EVA handle, this rod is created to stand the test of time.

    Keep in mind: The fishing rod and accessories need to be assembled before the first use.

    Good for: Toddlers with small hands who want to use a fishing pole independently.

    Magreel Kids Fishing Pole and Tackle Kit

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 5. Learning Resources Store Pretend and Play Fishing Set Pole and Tackle Box

    (Best imaginary play option — $$)

    Why it’s great: This magnetic fishing pole set helps spark imaginative, develop fine motor skill growth, and encourage hand eye coordination. The 11 piece toy set is sure to provide hours of entertainment preparing your little one for actual fishing.

    Keep in mind: This is a pretend fishing pole toy and cannot be used to catch live fish.

    Good for: Parents looking for a toy fishing set to help their toddler work on important skills.

    Learning Resources Store Pretend and Play Fishing Set Pole and Tackle Box

    View on Amazon.com ➜

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  • 6. DaddyGoFish Fishing Pole with Collapsible Chair, Rod Holder, Tackle Box, Bait Net and Carry Bag

    (Best accessories — $$$)

    Why it’s great: The DaddyGoFish Fishing Pole has everything you need to ensure your child’s fishing experience is a success. Including a collapsible chair to sit on, as well as a rod holder to keep the fishing pole off the ground to minimize the chance of accidental damage, fishing will be a positive experience for your little one.

    Keep in mind: The chair is small in size and best for younger toddlers to use.

    Good for: Parents looking to purchase one fishing kit that has everything they need for their toddler to succeed.

    DaddyGoFish Fishing Pole with Collapsible Chair, Rod Holder, Tackle Box, Bait Net and Carry Bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 7. ODDSPRO Kids Fishing Pole Combo Kit

    (Best for learning how to cast — $$)

    Why it’s great: The ODDSPRO Kids Fishing Pole Combo Kit includes a casting plug to help support toddlers learning how to cast their fishing poles. The lightweight pole and EVA grips guarantee the rod won’t slip through little fingers when catching a fish.

    Keep in mind: The fishing combo kit does not come with a manual, so you may have to check the website if unsure how to get started.

    Good for: Toddlers looking to advance their fishing skills by learning how to cast.

    ODDSPRO Kids Fishing Pole Combo Kit

    View on Amazon.com ➜

Best Overall

Lanaak Kids Fishing Pole Rod and Reel Starter Kit

The Lanaak Kids Fishing Pole Rod and Reel Starter Kit is our overall top recommendation. It's the highest quality product we have found with the most affordable price making it the best value on our list..

Lanaak Kids Fishing Pole Rod and Reel Starter Kit

View on Amazon.com ➜

FAQs about Toddler Fishing Poles

  • 1. At what age can I introduce a fishing pole to my child?

    When looking to purchase a toddler fishing pole, be sure to check the recommended age range while also taking into account your individual child’s maturity level and physical capabilities. Having your child practice with a pretend fishing pole in the bath around the age of one is a great way to introduce the sport of fishing. Once your child is able to follow directions around the ages of two or three, present your child with a working toddler fishing rod and reel, paying extra attention to explaining the precautions needed around a sharp hook.

  • 2. What should I look for in a toddler fishing pole?

    When buying a toddler fishing pole, check the sizing chart to be sure the fishing pole is suitable for your child’s height. Look for a child-friendly design as well as safety features to avoid any hook injuries. If you’re not sure your little one will take to the pole, a fishing kit that includes a net may work best for alternative catch-and-release fun.

  • 3. How do I safely present a toddler fishing pole to my child?

    Before using an actual toddler fishing pole, practice with a pretend set, such as one that uses magnets. When progressing to an actual rod and reel, thoroughly explain how to safely use a hook to prevent any injuries. Allow your toddler to experiment with the various parts and practice patience as he or she works on getting the hook into the water.

  • 4. What size toddler fishing pole do I get for my toddler?

    Depending on the brand you choose, use their specific sizing guide based off of your child’s height to ensure a good fit. A properly fitting toddler fishing pole will make the activity more accessible and enjoyable for your little one.

  • 5. Should I opt for a pretend fishing pole set or a real one for my toddler?

    Take into account your toddler’s maturity level and physical capabilities when determining if you should opt for a pretend fishing pole set or an actual one. When your child can clearly follow directions and has established both fine and large motor skills, it’s time to consider upgrading to a real toddler fishing pole.

Conclusion

Experiencing the great outdoors with your toddler has mental, physical, and emotional benefits for everyone. By introducing your little one to fishing, you can further enhance the benefits of spending time outside by working on the numerous skills needed to work a rod and reel. With various sizing and styles available, you can be sure to select a toddler fishing pole that tailors the sport to little hands. Once you’ve thoroughly reviewed the safety precautions necessary when handling a sharp hook, let your child experiment with the various equipment. You’re sure to enjoy quality time on the water with your tots while learning and developing their new skills.