The current leisure activity of choice for the Scotts is fishing. Believe it or not there are quite a few lakes within an hours drive from the East Valley. There is a fishable portion of the Salt River less than ten minutes away. The lakes are stocked regularly with trout, bass and crappie.
We were able to get started with four fishing poles and tackle for under a hundred bucks. Inexpensive rod and reel combinations like the Zebco Rhino or Classic 33 work well and cost between $20 and $40. Almost any ball bearing reel paired with a medium action rod will handle an amazing variety of fishing scenarios. I like the spincast reels because they are easy to use and reliable.
Productive baits include Hebrew National hotdogs, cheddar cheese and nightcrawlers. We've had our best luck to date with little chunks of all beef franks. Perhaps those folks do answer to a higher authority. Worms are usually a good bet if they are lively. Popular artificial baits have proven somewhat less effective than "refrigerator" bait.
Fishing is a great way to spend family time, though the wife may opt out of some spin casting expeditions. She may appreciate the quiet time more than a fighting Bass.
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