One day I was on the internet searching for mobile fishing gear and I came across this old ad for the Ronco Pocket Fisherman. In 1972 Ronco created this handheld fishing device that was ultra portable yet functional. Out of curiosity I searched to see if you could still buy one and of course their website and Amazon had a newer version of the original device made by Ronco for sale. I ordered it and the rest was history—that was over six years ago. I’ve used it on multiple occasions since then.
the good
- Very portable—When folded the device can fit into the side pocket of a pair of cargo shorts
- Durable—Although it is little the device is well made
- Easy to cast— There is a button on the top that makes casting very easy and it can be cast out pretty far
- Can be held in one hand—You can cast and fish with one hand. The only time the other hand is needed is to reel in a fish
- Small storage compartment—It has a small storage compartment on the handle to house your hook and lures
- It actually works—We have caught several fish with this device
the bad
- Default test line—The default test line that comes with the device is only 10lb. It is upgradable to 20lb test line and instructions are provided on how to do that
- Drag—When reeling in you have to be careful because you do not have a lot of control over drag
- Don’t go for the big one—My uncle lost a pocket fisherman because a big fish dragged it and ran off with it
the summary
This device represents when ”as seen on TV” works just as well in person. It has a 50 year history of generations enjoying it. It is one of my favorite devices to fish with. I keep it on me at all times just in case I get the urge to fish that random body of water when I am driving.
luthre 
