Q&A for How to Set Up a Fishing Pole

Not all lures do. These are called "shallow divers." You can get poppers and jig heads as well. Go out and find what works best for you.

Telescoping fishing poles often build up dirt and grime from use; try cleaning and applying a lubricant. However, if the pole is new, check the warranty and either send it off to the manufacturer or get a refund/replacement from where you purchased the item.

Buy a line and add it to the reel. You can find videos online which demonstrate how to add the line.

Use a bait that has quick side-to-side movements. Experience is best and according to the place you are fishing. Try and sniff out the best spots and recommended spots by other people.

You can use a swivel. They are very cheap. You can get them at any sporting goods or fishing store.

It probably means it needs a fix. It should always reel back in. You can replace the reel fairly easily.

Tie your lure using a fisherman's knot. Feed one end through the lure, twist the line around 7 times, then feed the end of the line through the hole you just created and cinch it tight.

The line should sit under the spool bar, not hook all the way around it. When casting, open the spool bar, grab the line, and release it when casting.

If you are using a split shot sinker, which has a groove for the line to go through and must be squeezed onto the line to secure it, you can do it either way. However, it is recommended to tie the hook first, as it will be harder to tie the hook with sinkers already on the line.

You could bend a paperclip into a hook shape, but it won't be as sharp or effective as a standard fishing hook.

Thread the line through the eyelets of the rod and tie a knot around the spool. Reel in the line until you have enough on the spool.

Your drag is likely set too low. You'll typically find a dial on top of your reel; turn it clockwise to tighten the drag, which makes it harder for the line to be pulled out. To prevent the line from coming out in this situation, you need to tighten this dial.

You can find good, affordable, name-brand fishing rods at any local sporting goods store. For a wider variety of brands and deals, consider larger retailers like Cabela's or Bass Pro Shops. If you are serious about fishing, you might also consider purchasing the reel and rod separately to combine them and create a setup perfect for the type of fish you plan to catch, such as bass, trout, or bluegill.

Most reels can be swapped between left-hand and right-hand positions. To do this, locate the knurled knob on the side of the reel opposite the handle; it unscrews like a nut. Once unscrewed, the handle and its shaft should slide out, allowing you to reinsert them on the opposite side and tighten the knob.