ed the easiest thing to do if you aren't used to tackle is just to go to a wal-mart or something similiar and pick up an inexpensive zebco reel/rod combo...there cheap and good quality for the price...depending on how big you thought the fish was i would use around 12lb test line...any bigger and he might not bite. also be sure to take a camera with you next time you go over there in case you catch him...that way you can show all of us here
good luck
