These child- and fish-safe poles are really for attracting fish so kids can get a good look; there is no barbed fishhook.

Bamboo Fishing Pole How-To
1. Begin with a 4- to 5-foot stick of sturdy bamboo. Use a 6-foot length of waxed twine for the line. Lay about 3 inches of it along the top of the pole. Holding twine to the pole, wrap upwards back to top. Knot tightly.

2. For a bobber, knot a wooden bead onto the line a foot and a half from the end. Tie a paper clip to the end of the string for your hook; for bait, skewer a piece of firm cheese (Swiss or cheddar) with the paper clip. Tell kids to keep an eye on the bobber; fish will gather beneath it.

3. For storage, screw a cup hook into the bamboo 6 inches from the bottom; wrap the line around the hook.