Who it's for
Bank or calm-cove anglers who want a simple rod-and-reel combo and the option to bring your own boat or kayak. Calm Midwest lakes and slow coves only.
Not the right kit if
You're floating Ozark current (Current, Meramec, Jacks Fork, etc.). Boats and kayaks brought for this kit stay on calm water. Use a canoe or kayak for moving water.
Rod & Reel
Lew's American Hero Spinning Combo 6'6"
Weekend bass, crappie, and panfish from a Missouri park bank, farm pond, or calm cove. Matched combo that casts cleanly and packs in most truck cabs. Not a heavy river or tournament setup.
Another option in the same length: the Lews Laser SG Spinning Combo 6 ft 6 in Medium.
Getting off the bank
Bring your own boat or kayak, and a life jacket for everyone aboard: ONYX Type II Life Jacket 4-Pack (Adult L)
Four adult Type II PFDs for a small crew. Calm lakes and slow coves only.
Prefer to stay on the bank? Skip the boat and use the same rod from shore.
Light for dusk
Dawn and dusk are the better windows. A lantern or headlamp keeps you from packing up in the dark.
Shore lunch
The Portable 3-Burner works for a quick shore cook if you're staying put. Keep it stable and out of the wind.
Safety
Wear a PFD on the water. Check park or Corps rules. Tell someone your plan and expected return.
Quick questions
Who is the Lake Fishing Day Kit for?
Bank or calm-cove anglers who want a simple rod-and-reel combo and the option to bring their own boat or kayak. It is for calm Midwest lakes and slow coves only.
Can I use this kit on Ozark float streams?
No. It is not the right kit for floating Ozark current like the Current, Meramec, or Jacks Fork. Use a canoe or kayak for moving water.
Which rod and reel are in the kit?
The Lew's American Hero Spinning Combo 6'6", a matched combo for weekend bass, crappie, and panfish from a Missouri park bank, farm pond, or calm cove. It is not a heavy river or tournament setup.
Do I need life jackets if I bring a boat?
Yes. Bring a life jacket for everyone aboard and wear a PFD on the water. The kit pairs with the ONYX Type II Life Jacket 4-Pack (Adult L), four adult Type II PFDs for a small crew.
When is the best time to fish a Midwest lake?
Dawn and dusk are the better windows. Bring a lantern or headlamp so you are not packing up in the dark.
