I want to start fishing a hobby to help me relax, but don’t know where to start. I live in Kenai, USA and know of a few place where I can fish, just don’t know what I should buy to get me going.

Welcome to the site

You have made the best starting decision already, joining this site.

Next Take a few days to read some posts here to get an idea on techniques, gear, places, etc. Ask questions. The first time to set the hook on a nice fish you will understand what its all about. Good luck

I remember when I first got interested in fishing. I started asking everyone I knew what kind of rod to buy and I was asked "What do you want to fish for?" Most of them had numerous rods. At the time I didn't know what I wanted to fish for, I just wanted one rod that would be versitile. That was probably ten years ago and I have probably had 12 rods since that time.

First I would decide what species you want to fish for and what weight lures are used,then choose your rod accordingly. This forum contains a wealth of knowledge, spend some time reading the articles and posts.

Have fun.

Kenai as in Kenai Alaska? I don't think you have bass up there, but its a great salmon fishery from what I hear. I've never been so I'm not sure what to recommend as far as gear, but talking to some local fisherman should be a good start.

if you're talking about the kenai river then get your self a 8'6 medium spinning combo and a 7' mh-h baitcast combo. went to alaska last summer for the tail end of the sockeye run and beginning of the coho/pink/chum. going back in about 50 days for the king run can't wait.

My first stop would be the local tackle shop. They can guide you to areas to fish, what you can expect to catch and the best tackle suited.

Treat fishing as a hobby or activity by not being too intense, you'll catch as many fish and get a whole more relaxation with that attitude.

My suggestion would be to start with a decent rod or two. Don't spend a ton of money to get the best. The reason is simple. There is no guarantee that fishing will be your cup of tea. Fishing is really no different than any other hobby. Folks think they'd like to do something, start out, and then lose interest. For others, a hobby becomes an obsession.

SirSnookalot's advice about starting out at a local tackle shop is on the money. They will know what works for the various species, and what works at different stages of the season.

The beauty of fishing is that each of us can do it our own way. We can go "by the book", or think outside the box like mad scientists. Each can approach it as seriously or casually as they want.

Good luck, and have fun.

Diawa Regal Xia

I bought one of those reels last Christmas, and it has worked out great for me! It would a good starter because it's not overally expensive.

People fish as a hobby? I view it as a lifestyle or all encompassing obsession.

I recommend a okuma alumina on a lowend or middle line, medium heavy All Star rod. Thats the first setup i bought. Still fish it too. But hey everyone has a opinion on the beat rod and reel. I agree with the others, talk with your local bait shops.