I’m planning to buy a fishing outfit for my girlfriend for Christmas – possibly spending somewhere in the $250 to $300 range. She is somewhat petite with small hands and a wrist injury from skiing so I want to keep it fairly light. Most of the fish she’d catch would be bluegill and largemouth bass up to 6 pounds max.

She prefers spinning reels with the trigger that automatically opens the bail. What is the best spinning reel with a trigger?

The rod needs to be a multi-piece model (two or more pieces) that takes down so can store / transport easily in a car. One that would take down to less than two feet would probably be best. I know longer rods can cast lighter lures (bluegill jigs) further and help cushion larger fish’s runs. Light weight is a definite asset as mentioned above. She’d be casting instead of trolling or jigging. What rod would you recommend?

She’ll mainly be fishing for bluegill, redear, and largemouth bass. She probably doesn’t need a lot of lures as will be with me most of the time; but should have a good variety. What specific lures would you recommend?

We may be walking around the ponds / lakes as we fish. She probably wouldn’t switch lures often at all. The type of tackle box I’m envisioning would have a strap that goes around the neck and shoulder, contoured to body somewhat, and not be burdensome or awkward to carry. The not burdensome or awkward is a big factor. I’m basically seeking something that goes almost unnoticed until you decide to switch lures. What lure containment system would you recommend?

She’s also asked me about how to cook different fish. We may do some camping and traveling too. What fish recipe / cooking books would you recommend?

Thanks!

Jeff