Reddit mentions of Eagle Claw Pack-IT Telescopic Spincast Rod, 1 Piece (Yellow, 5-Feet 6-Inch)

IMO, get a Jet Boil, greatest camp stove. Don't bring any other cooking/food related gear besides a spork. Its all you need. Dehydrated food for backpacking is great (light weight, lasts the whole trip, tastes great, easy to prepare) but it is really expensive. Making your own backpacking meals is cheaper, but may not taste as good, may be difficult to get a variety, and will be harder to prepare. Recently, I've backpacked with frozen baggie omelettes (they can last for the first day or two but they kinda ended up a mess, and kinda tasted terrible in the end) and these things (taken out of the container). I also had some fruit/jello things (sweet, great for morale) and NutriGrain Bars (don't go any where with out them). You could also go with a fishing license, this, and a small supply of tackle, and a baggie of premixed seasonings and boil up some fish on the trail. I've been meaning to try that. Finally, there's a webpage devoted to sharing JetBoil recipes. Basically, the goal is to bring something light weight with you, add water and heat in a cup, and hopefully it tastes good and nourishes you.

Also, I like tarp tents. I aslo travel with a water purifier, but not always needed, depending on the trail. I prefer these over water bottles. I don't have much advice on sleeping bags or packs, I'd actually appreciate such advice from someone with advice to give. Take a first aid kit, you can buy a pre-made one, or make you own. There's a million things you could take, but that's not practical. Just be smart about what you bring and don't bring, as you gain experience, you'll better know what you need and don't need. As far as being in shape, I'm not in great shape, you can still backpack if you're not in shape. Backpacking more will get you in better shape, and that will lead you to do more extreme adventures. All in all, find a local shop (I love Scheels), get to know them, make friends, and ask them questions so you can wisely invest in some good gear, love it, and maintain it. You'll get a lot out of the outdoors, welcome, have fun and be safe!