It is easy to put together a basic fishing rig for less than $50. The nice thing about renting is you can try out the sport. If you like fishing then you can spend some more, if not then you're not out much money.
In order to fish in public laes, rivers, and streams, in most states you need a fishing license. Children under 16 are not required to purchase one but do check with your local laws. Some sport fishing requires extra tags and children are not exempt.
The fees collected from fishing licenses help to restock fishing areas, and pay for maintenance on recreational areas. Each state is different, but most of them will set aside a day where you can take your kids and go fishing for free. You won't have to buy a full year's license. If you take advantage of this you can see whether you want to go to the expense of buying a license.
Game wardens regularly check for fishing licenses. The citation can be expensive, and if they choose, they can confiscate all of your fishing tackle if you don't have one. Make sure you purchase a license for fishing in the required areas and keep it visible at all times.
The kind of fish you're trying to catch will determine what fishing equipment you'll need. Lets start with trout fishing and put together a list of items you will need.
Make a list and then work off of that. On your list, write down a rod and reel, hooks, fishing line, weights, bait, and a tackle box. Set your budget and stick to it. It's easy to spend way more than you need, but spend enough to buy a decent quality fishing gear.
Another option besides buying all of your fishing gear is to rent it from a bait and tackle shop. If you're not sure whether you will even like fishing, renting might be a better way to go. This will help you decide before you lay out cash for any expensive equipment.
Tackle shops that rent fishing equipment can help you figure out which is the best equipment for your needs after you let them know what kind of fish you are going to catch.
Some of the more popular companies that make fishing equipment for beginners as well as expert fishermen are Okuma, Shakespeare, Daiwa, and Shimano. You can check and see if they have packaged a rod and reel combo for your beginers equipment.