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10 Best Kids Fishing Rods 2026 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
10.0
Chosen by1,249
Reel Type

Most important from
1224 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
10.0
Chosen by1,249
Reel Type

Most important from
1224 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

CODEK Kids Fishing Pole Set with Full Starter Kits 2 Set Portable Telescopic Fishing Rod and Spincast Reel Cambos with a Fishing Net and 2 Buckets for Boys Girls and Youth (Blue+Orange)

The CODEK Kids Fishing Pole Set is an excellent option for introducing young ones to fishing. It comes as a package of two sets—one blue and one orange—making it ideal for siblings or friends to fish together. Each set includes a 1.5-meter telescopic rod made from durable glass fiber, a spincast reel, and a variety of accessories such as a tackle box, fishing lures, a carry bag, a folding fishing net, and two buckets.

These features make it a comprehensive starter kit for children aged 3 to 15 years. The lightweight and collapsible design ensures it is easy for kids to handle and convenient for families to carry on outings, fitting easily into car trunks or backpacks. The EVA handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when wet, which is particularly useful for the tiny hands of young anglers.

This set is designed with kids' ease of use in mind, promoting outdoor activities and helping children learn patience, confidence, and coordination through fishing. However, the set's focus on simplicity might not satisfy more experienced young anglers looking for advanced features. Additionally, while the medium power and spincast reel are great for beginners, they may limit the types of fish and fishing techniques that can be explored. The CODEK Kids Fishing Pole Set is a well-rounded, value-for-money product that encourages outdoor fun and learning, making it a perfect gift for children who are new to fishing.

#3

Lanaak Kids Fishing Pole and Tackle Box - with Net, Travel Bag, Reel and Beginner’s Guide - Rod and Reel Kit for Boys, Girls, or Youth (Green)

Rating
8.2
Material

Most important from
4233 reviews

Material
Durability is a strong feature, with materials like stainless steel contributing to the kit's long-lasting performance.

The Lanaak Kids Fishing Pole and Tackle Box is a solid starter kit designed specifically for young beginners learning to fish. Its 65-inch telescopic rod made from lightweight aluminum makes it easy for kids to handle and transport, especially since it collapses down to just 17 inches and includes a carrying bag. The spinning reel comes pre-spooled with 200 feet of 8-pound braided line, which supports gentle, easy casting and retrieving — a big plus for new anglers. The rod’s reversible design also accommodates left-handed kids.

The tackle box is impressively stocked with a variety of hooks, bobbers, lures, and even a small fishing net, giving children everything they need to get started without extra purchases. An included beginner’s guide with diagrams and video links adds helpful instructions that make learning more accessible and fun. Another neat feature is the encouragement to catch your own bait like minnows or crickets, which can enhance the outdoor experience.

On the downside, the rod is categorized as light power, so it’s best suited for smaller fish and calm water, meaning it may not be ideal for bigger catches or rough conditions. While aluminum is durable and lightweight, some children might find the 65-inch length a bit long at first, though the telescoping design helps. The kit is clearly meant for young kids starting out rather than more serious or older youth anglers. This Lanaak set successfully balances simplicity with enough components to keep beginners engaged and confident without overwhelming them.

Rating
8.2
Material

Most important from
4233 reviews

Material
Durability is a strong feature, with materials like stainless steel contributing to the kit's long-lasting performance.

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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