Tips and Tricks
How A Beginner Can Start Fishing For Under $100
Feb
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Can A Beginner Keep Their Fishing Costs For Under $100 To Start?
Absolutely you can start fishing for under $100.00! In fact, depending on what state, you live in it’s possible to start for under $50.00. I say that because your fishing license in certain states will make up the bulk of your costs.
Fishing is something that can be shared between friends and family, or if you just need some piece of mind will help reduce stress levels since it’s relaxing by nature.
It’s also a great way for those generous enough to volunteer for the big brother program, to teach someone less fortunate!
What Are Ways For Beginners To Keep Their Fishing Start Up Costs For Under $100
We keep things simple here and have great articles that can be referred to for tips and tricks that will help you in your growth as a fisherman, but if you’re brand new then we will start with the basics.
I always recommend spending local, and if you’re shopping at bait shop for the first time understand, that it is possible to keep from breaking the bank!
What you’ll need…
- Fishing License
- Rod & Reel or Pole
- Fishing Line
- Bobbers
- Hooks
- Split Shots
- Bait
Fishing License
$10 to over $50.00 depending on your state
If you’re thrifty with the rest of the items, then the biggest fixed cost will likely be a fishing license. Licenses are important to the part of a state’s revenue that goes back into the fishing community which is a positive!
Fishing licenses can be broken down into two different categories:
- Residential Fishing License
- Non-Residential Fishing License
A residential fishing license is limited to those residing in the state they live in and applies to all the waters within said state. They are cheaper than the non-residential.
A non-residential fishing license applies to all out of state visitors fishing the lakes within its borders. States typically charge a higher fee for these licenses.
Licenses can be purchased at most local bait shops, sporting goods stores, and on the state’s website.
Rod & Reel or Pole
Cost (used) $10.00 to $30.00
If you’re wanting to start fishing for under $100.00 then being thrifty with your fishing pole decision will be your biggest variable cost. Not sure which one you need? Learn the difference between a Rod & Reel vs. Pole.
Flea markets, online swaps, and rummages sales always have good quality beginner rods, reels, and poles. If you’re starting out, start used!
Since you’re a beginner you’ll be looking for the push button style. I wouldn’t pay more than $20.00 for a used one since it’s possible the reel has been neglected. Have the owner demonstrate that the reel casts and winds fine before you fork over any of your hard-earned money!
Fishing Line
Cost $10.00
No reason to go expensive with your first spool of line. There are many different brands, styles, and diameters to choose from. For your first-time fishing stick to a ten-pound test line in monofilament. The spool you purchase should be 100 yards or under.
If you purchase all of your other equipment at a local bait shop, have the owner show you how to spool your line for the first time!
Bobbers/Corks
Cost $4.00 (2)
When choosing the correct bobber to purchase stick to a simple spring-loaded style less than six inches long. It’s best to purchase at least two since there’s a good chance, you’ll lose one at some point throughout the day.
If I’m bank fishing, I’d have at least four!
Hooks
Cost $3.00 (10pk)
You’ll find hooks to be reasonable!
Made from steel, hooks can get expensive if you aim more towards bass fishing or any other large hook as they’re a commodity meaning the more metal in each one, the higher the cost.
Fortunately for bluegill fishermen we can keep our costs down, as bream have smaller mouths!
Split-Shots
Cost $3.00 (25pk)
Most beginners don’t know how to use a split shot, and that’s ok! We have detailed articles on them, and you can click on the link to get further educated. The two most important things to understand about them is that they help generate longer casting distances and help sink your bait!
Split shots are cheap and readily available in all bait shops alongside hooks.
Bait
Cost $6.00
The best live baits you can use for bluegill are listed within this site. They can be purchased at a local bait shop, pet shop, or you can actually catch your own bait making it free!
Mealworms and wax worms make an easy starter bait because they can easily be transported in a small container.
All-totaled You Can Easily Start Fishing For Less Than $100
All items listed are actually leaning toward the expensive side leaving plenty of wiggle room for you to save even more money as a beginner fisherman.
While it’s stylish to own the newest, biggest, and best equipment out there, there’s no reason to go all in at the beginning. Remember, we are looking for peace of mind and that doesn’t have to break the bank!
