Best fishing line according to redditors

Probably try something like this: https://www.amazon.com/HeavyDuty-Speargun-Shooting-Abrasion-Resistant/dp/B07F23XH4P?th=1&psc=1

http://www.amazon.com/Plano-Line-Spool-Clear-Small/dp/B001ECQPS4

Redington Crosswater combo ($132 with Prime)

If he likes smallmouth and catches them in his favorite creeks then get the 6wt. If he prefers trout then get the 9' 5wt option. This rod in a 6wt will also work for pond/lake fishing for bass. If he went to a bigger river then he would do fine with it as well, whether wading or in a boat.

He will also need a leader and some tippet. For $8.61 you can get him an individual leader, or for $16 you can get him the three pack. For tippet, if you get him the 8 pound leader then you should get him the 8 pound tippet for $7.57.

For leader longevity he will want tippet rings for $11.72. This will allow him to use his leaders for much longer rather than needing to re-buy leaders sooner. I know we're outside of your budget at this point past the leader, but if you can swing it then all of these things will provide what he needs outside of flies. Maybe someone else is getting him presents and could supplement the rest. Sometimes fly rod combos will come with leaders, but I didn't see it mentioned on the Crosswater combo. You'll notice I tailored it more to bass. If you find out he's more of a trout guy, then read on.

For $10.78 you can get a 3-pack of 9' 4x leaders. He can fish small streamers and nymphs with these, but would want a thinner leader for dry flies. For creeks he will probably fish small streamers and nymphs most of the time anyways, so this is a good choice (in my opinion). You'll still want the tippet rings listed above to make the leader purchase last a long time. For tippet, a spool of 4x tippet material for $11.43. The tippet prices seem high to me so you might want to dig around some more for options.

Other doodads to consider would be nippers and a zinger, hemostats, and a net. Teeth are a substitute for nippers, but biting through fishing line does wear your teeth. Hemostats aren't as necessary if he pinches the barbs on his hooks. You can get away with not using a net, but it is easier on the fish and the fisherman to use one.

Hopefully this helps and points you in the right direction. If you have questions just send me a message.

Hope you're using the appropriate test. I like using this

Here is the desktop version of your link

Hello, welcome back to fishing! I'm going to answer your questions directly, paragraph by paragraph, and then if you have additional questions/concerns answer them as we go.

Rod: For you dad, I would get a medium heavy(MH) fast action 6'6" in whatever you want to afford. I'll tell you right now, any rod will go as far as you need it to. I fish 3-4 days a week, so I don't depend on cheaper equipment. But if you can only afford a $10 shakespear, don't sweat it. For the boy, let him pick something out that he thinks is awesome. Build his interest now, keep his interest later. My daughter's barbie pole has netted a ton of fish this season, and she's had a blast every step of the way because she made the choice.

Where to start: New York DNR - Check this place out for places to fish in your area. Just about every local pond/lake is going to have fish that you can catch. Don't be afraid to post to social media for spot suggestions.

Hooks: Sorry to say, but you and everyone else is going to get poked and stuck with hooks. It's part of the sport. What you can do is be prepared. Buy a light weight first-aid kit and practice patience. Being in a hurry is how I get stuck, EVERY TIME. Don't worry about filing the barbs. Human skin is extremely resilient and the chance of the hooks going all the way through are very rare. It's only happened once in my entire life and I had my brother pull the hook out with pliers. Along the same lines, this is why I do/did the majority of my 4 kids' casting until they were comfortable with the consequences.

Gear:

• Line - Reaction Tackle If you need braid, I would get Reaction. But I would start with like a 4lb mono, middle of the road price, to get started. Until you're comfortable with casting and reeling.
  
  
• Tackle Box - It's a nice box, but I would wait until you know what your needs are going to be. At this point you need a rod, line, hook, bobber, and maybe some weight. A $15 Plano from Bass Pro would give you some extra cash for other pieces of your journey.
  
  
• Hooks - The circle hooks that you linked would be great for catfishing, but a small light weightt bait-holder hook may be a better option. I understand where you're coming from, wanting a variety, but it may not be worth it until you know what you're targeting.
  
  
• Tools - I'd like to add that you will want to pick up some nail clippers or scissors to leave in your bag. Everything else you listed is a good start. Again, your needs may differ so don't get too crazy with buying everything until you know exactly what you're going to want to do.
  
  After reading all of that, the ideal setup for you would look something like this: 6'6" MH Rod with any spinning reel. 75-100YDS of 4LB Monofiliment Line. 24"-36" from the end of the line, you'll have a medium size bobber. 12"-18" from the end of the line, you'll have a 1/8oz split shot sinker. On the end of the line, you'll want a 1/0 bait-holder hook tied on using a palomar knot. On the hook, you'll want about 1/4-1/3 of a night crawler worm, or wax worm. Everything else is just a bonus.
  
  Fishing at the very core, is about being in the outdoors and interacting with nature. Having all this stuff is fun to research, fun to shop, and fun to think about... but at the end of the day if you're not enjoying your time outside, then it's not worth it.
  
  

i have some of that same crappy line that came with a tarp for tie outs, no bueno...for ridge-lines (or things that really matter) do yourself a favor and buy some Lash-It or any of those ropes/cords made by Samson. lash-it is the grey cord that is like 1.75mm and 500lb break strength.

i used to used whatever i had laying around (usually 550 paracord)....the samson stuff is in a whole other league.

like this

https://www.amazon.com/Samson-Cordage-Lash-1-75Mm-180Ft/dp/B003X499OI

The string should be strong and lightweight. I think we are using braided fishing wire. We used the 300lb 8 strand one from here: https://www.amazon.com/Generic-Spectra-Dyneema-Fishing-328Yards/dp/B011DPMZKI?th=1&psc=1

This is what I would do:

• ROD
  *https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B7YHVLO/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A2FTET3FBYWFIB&psc=1
  
  
• 3.0 LEVEL LINE https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GREZB1A/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?smid=A1KRYSMJ8GAFXD&psc=1
  
  
• 6x TIPPET https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015461WVK/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A1V2BME88WQ7NI&psc=1
  
  
• TIPPET RINGS
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0160BRFDC/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
  
  
• LINE WINDER https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N3PY0H8/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A1KRYSMJ8GAFXD&psc=1

What about a fishing line spool holder
http://www.amazon.com/Plano-Line-Spool-Clear-Small/dp/B001ECQPS4/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1406072939&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=Plano+Line+Spool+Box

I bought this nylon fishing wire from amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GB42RYZ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Mono leaders are the key, for using tip ups. These are the ones I use on my beaver dam tip ups. Just add your favorite hook rig, I only used large treble hooks with 5” shiners.

Tooth Shield Premium Fluorocarbon Musky Leader 5 Pack 80lb 12" https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0775SVCTM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_XupyCb06KNFMH

Rio Gold, SA and the mid-range Orvis are all good lines. I wouldn't call them "budget" lines exactly...but they're not $90-100 like a lot of the higher ends.

I actually just picked up a Piscifun line for my backup rod ($30 on Amazon ) not expecting much from it. But, it's really a solid line thus far. To the point that I actually rigged it up for my primary rod the last couple times I went out. It appears to shoot almost exactly the same as the Rio Gold at sub 50ft casts and nearly holds up on the 50+ range.

I was unfamiliar with the brand...but was pleasantly surprised.

here is the line I used. It has the backing and leader I suggested products I believe. I have the blue on my 5wt and orange on my 6.

We have been using this with our Linear Lifts.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B011DPMZKI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Rev also has an option available.

http://www.revrobotics.com/REV-41-1162/

Try this.

Plano Line Spool Box (Clear, Small) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001ECQPS4/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_PJINub1H87QVB

I have the same one. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001ECQPS4

[Here.] (http://www.amazon.com/Zebco-33-Spincast-Fishing-Combo/dp/B000LNZ66E/ref=pd_sbs_sg_10)

Then buy:

Decent line, from six to ten "pound test."

[Terminal tackle.] (http://www.amazon.com/Dolphin-343-Piece-Terminal-Tackle/dp/B005LPVTTA/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1370884155&sr=1-1&keywords=terminal+tackle+kit)

[And a decent beginner lure kit.] (http://www.amazon.com/Mister-Twister-Curly-piece-Assorted/dp/B000WEOPZK/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1370884345&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=curly+tail+jig+kit)

There you go.

The ratchet strap highline seems like overkill for a tarp ridge line. If that's all you have use it of course, but any bit of rope will do. There is relatively little tension put on it by the tarp so you don't have to worry about thinner line damaging the trees. It is common to see 1.75mm lash-it (https://www.amazon.com/Samson-Cordage-Lash-1-75Mm-180Ft/dp/B003X499OI), or something similar, used here.

Kastking does make good line, it’s what grew the business


KastKing Mega8 Braided Fishing Line,Blue,30LB,300 Yds https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07S1NRK89/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_XVRNDbM8BB2XK

I'm unsure of the dimensions, but I've wanted to try out these kind of fishing line dispensers... the little black bit is rubber so should hold the wire from 'retracting.'

http://www.amazon.com/Plano-Line-Spool-Clear-Small/dp/B001ECQPS4/

Here's a bigger picture of one as an example, but it's the wrong size spool.

http://www.amazon.com/Plano-Line-Spool-Clear-Large/dp/B001O9BV2W/

Here's the rod:

Uxcell a11081700ux0041 Traveling 9 Sections Telescopic Pole Fishing Fisherman Tool Rod 2.5M Orange
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005SO6GTW/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_0loODbFZ9HP3F

It comes from Asia, and not on prime shipping, so it can take a while...

And I paired it with this line, works great! Can overhead or roll cast with ease:

Moonlit Fly Fishing Bushi Furled Tenkara Line (All-Around line) Quality Made in USA (Neon Green, 9ft) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074CQC1K3/ref=cm_sw_r_em_apa_i_BooODb9NHY66Q

Sorry for the confusion in my response. They sell fluorocarbon leader line that is around $20 for 50 yards and fluorocarbon fishing line that is around $20 for 200 yards. I use the fishing line as leader material. I haven't noticed a difference between the leader or the fishing line except for the price.

Looking at that lake makes me want to bust out the canoe so much...

That said, if you are just starting out I wouldn't overthink it. People have been catching fish for decades with good ol' Trilene XL. haha. Especially on a setup that light (edit: I thought you linked to the ultralight version, but now I'm not sure sure), I'd just go with whatever weight trilene XL works on your reel and start to get a good feel for the hobby. It's easier to just start fishing without having to worry about leaders and things like that. But ultimately, braid really is the way to go. I've never used fluoro as a main line, but even now I don't use braid on my ultralight setup. Really small diameter braid digs in to itself too easily.

Thanks I appreciate it. I'm thinking of going with this setup. I need something anyway and thought maybe this would be versatile for more than just striper (catfish, tog, etc). I really like the idea of having a baitfeeder reel. Right now I just have some tiny baitcasters I use for large mouths and pike. Thoughts?

Rod

Reel

Main line

I have about $40 to spend. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D9J0FN0/ref=twister_dp_update?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 Is this any good?

In my opinion just buy a sink tip line. I recently bought a $20 one from Amazon, used it for my 8 wt and was shocked how much I like it. I have a Rio Bass/Panfish floating line and I thought this one was easier to cast chunky flies with. I know I didn't answer your question, but for $20 I think it's worthwhile. I was skeptical because reviews weren't that great. I used it for a few day trips and was surprised how much I liked it. Not sure how well it will hold up over time but so far so good. If you get it either use the attachable braided loops or bush up on your nail knots.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01CFZTW74/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469074985&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=sink+tip+fly+line&dpPl=1&dpID=51P1neADbcL&ref=plSrch

I just picked some up from Amazon. I don't believe they are too badly priced.

https://www.amazon.com/Rio-Tippet-Ring-Pack-Small/dp/B0160BRFDC/ref=sr_1_1?s=sports-and-fitness&ie=UTF8&qid=1485841921&sr=1-1&keywords=tippit%2Brings&th=1&psc=1

You don't need $300 to get into fly fishing.

• Rod $26
  
  
• Reel $19
  
  
• Backing $9
  
  
• Fly line $8
  
  
• Leader $9
  
  
• Tippet $5
  
  
• Handful of flies: $10
  
  That's $86 USD, and you have everything you need to start.
  
  YouTube videos are free, but the Orvis Fly Fishing Video Lessons are even better, and cover everything from first day on the water, up to advanced fly fishing techniques.

KastKing line is on sale:

KastKing SuperPower Braid Fishing Line, Low-Vis Gray, 8LB/0.08mm/(300M/327 Yds) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EFQYU78/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_UbllDbBE2EM32