u/Corozoking

Just to set expectations: I'm not trying to get into sportfishing as a hobby. I've already seen those threads and it's way too much info for what I need. This is just a fun dad-and-kid outing.

I've never fished in my life, and I'd like to take my 5-year-old for his first time. Looking for advice from people who know the area.

A few things I'm hoping for:

• Location: Somewhere in southern Alberta, as close to Calgary as possible.
• Lessons: Is there anywhere that actually teaches you the basics? I'm starting from zero.
• Budget: I don't want to over-invest. He's 5, so this might just be a phase. What's the minimum I should buy to give it a fair shot?
• Stocked pond: In other countries there are places — sometimes attached to restaurants — where you fish from an overstocked pond and you're basically guaranteed to catch something (they'll even cook your catch). That kind of spot would be perfect for keeping a little kid engaged.

To be clear: he wants the full experience — rod, pond, the whole thing. (Grabbing a live crab at T&T does not count, haha.)

Any tips appreciated. Thanks!