Fishing Buddy

Any ideas for a fishing vacation?

I am new to fishing, and I don't know what to purchase to start a tackle box. I know I need a fishing rod and bait, but that's all. What do you bring on your fishing trips? Is Alaska the best place in the U.S. to fish? How do you start a tackle box, and what do you include in it? What is the best fishing rod out? Please give a crash course on fishing, and what's the best place to go on a fishing trip. When it comes to the equipment, I want the best and am willing to pay for the best. I don't know the difference between the saltwater and freshwater equipment needed. I want to surprise my boyfriend who is frantic about fishing (and hunting). Your advice and help is greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.

Public Comments

1. Wow, this a VERY vague question. I'm gonna try to make this answer as short as possible, because you might have to repost this question again (slightly more detailed). Here goes... 1. Determine if your going to go fresh/saltwater or your gonna spend ALOT of money. Not all gear is interchangeable. 2. Find out what species of fish you are going after. This will determine the size of your gear. 3. Where are you going to be fishing? Beach, shore, lake, ocean, boat, etc Besides a rod and reel, you'll probably need a chair, net, hook remover, line cutter, beer/wine, etc. Also, ask yourself if you have enough patience for this sport. This could go on and on. Good Luck
2. A trip to Alaska to fish is like a dream, and I would recommend it to anyone. The trip in itself is beyond description with the scenery that cannot be found anywhere else, the people are great, the land is great and the fishing is the best. Now to the tackle part, for really great fishing, you can get half day charters, full day or whatever fits your needs and budget. The Charter boats generally provide all the necessary gear, lunches and will clean, freeze and ship your catch. I would highly advise you to go to the "Seward AK." area or "Homer AK" for the best fishing, with Seward being my first choice. Another good area is the "Kenai River" for salmon. The charters are mostly for Halibut and salmon with some halibut running well over 50 to 100 lbs. Great eating. You can get first hand information by going to google and requesting information on any particular area, along with dates and prices. Now, for good local fishing and not too expensive try the State of Montana for trout, and also Idaho. Not nearly as good as Alaska, but still fun and plenty of fish during season. Fishing in the great lakes is also quite good a certain time of the year for Lake trout, walleye, perch and many pan fish. You might also get information on provinces in western Canada, for salmon, trout, walleye, and many other types of fish, but believe me, there is nothing to compare with a weeks fishing in Alaska, it's something you'll remember for years.
3. There is specific information needed for each type of fishing and location as to what equipment to use. I would suggest fly fishing for bonefish in the Florida keys. Great fun. Contact a local guide and they usually have all the equipment already for rent at a fee.
4. i'd go with a cheap telescopic rod and use worms on your hooks..they generaly get eaten by many species of fish..no need to buy the best gear if your not some pro