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What equipment is right for kids?

One of my family members wants to get his 5-year-old son into fly-fishing. Have you worked with kids this young, and how do you keep them interested? Also, what weight and length rod is best for such a beginner?

Question:
One of my family members wants to get his 5-year-old son into fly-fishing. Have you worked with kids this young, and how do you keep them interested? Also, what weight and length rod is best for such a beginner?

James Wong

**Answer:
**It’s possible for a 5-year-old to learn to fly-fish; however, it has been my experience that a child younger than 10 often does not do well because of his attention span. He may listen intently until a dog runs across the park or something else distracts him – and then the entire lesson is forgotten. However, if the child is really focused, he can learn. I always recommend starting a child with a 4- or 5-weight rod with a line one size heavier. Since he will be false-casting a short line, overlining the rod will help him load it.

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-Lefty

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