San Diego & SoCal Fishing Forums

Does anyone have any suggestions on the best type of rod and reel to use when fishing from the pier? I’m looking to buy a set up for a family member for the holidays.

Thank you

Short answer is nothing fancy. Sounds like your family member is new to fishing? Definitely go with a spinning setup, less frustration for beginners. Many good ready-to-fish combos will catch species that frequent piers and beyond. Depending on your budget,$100 is plenty. Less expensive options all over the place.
Something 7 ft, medium action with 15 lb test is a great all around rig. Any tackle shop nearby can outfit you with the essential terminal tackle, but their rods and reels tend to be more high end. Good luck, fishing is awesome!

Yes, he is 10yr old from Sacramento. He wants to try fishing over his Christmas break,so I want to set him up for a good session. If he likes it, I’ll get him a nice beginner set up.
Any tips or tricks would be appreciated.

I agree with @galen on his recommended setup. I'll add that a 10 year old is probably not tall enough to cast safely underhand on a pier, so I think a sabiki is probably the best rig. Add Gulp! pieces, or squid strips and fish it straight down. No casting needed. Also, the rod will endure a lot of rubbing on the rail and will probably slide down a couple of times

Good luck, have fun, and bring some unexpected snacks

Good for you... For a trial, you could take a look at Big 5 or Walmart for a cheap set up, for under $50, and if he gets the bug, you could spring for better gear later on..Like the other guys said 7', medium, spinning gear with the 15# test should do him well...
Butch

Thats great advice. Thank you all, hopefully something bites good for him.