What should you do first?
- Choose water and check the rules. Use the official state link below for licences, then check that water’s bait and access rules.
- Choose one spinning outfit. A light outfit for small fish differs from a surf outfit. Choose by target and water.
- Build a float rig. A small bobber, shot and hook make a useful first bait presentation.
- Tie an improved clinch. Follow the illustrated steps, wet and inspect the knot.
- Make a short first trip. Watch the float, control slack and leave the bank clean.
Where can you get your state licence?
These are official state licence or agency entry pages, checked 2026-11-04. Use the state’s current terms. We do not copy fees or decide exemptions. Several agencies use official .com or .us domains; those are identified in the source data.
Taking children fishing?
Where do these facts come from?
The links identify source URLs and check dates. The source data records access limits.