Mike,
Thanks for the reply. Yeah, it's about a 3 hour trip. I'm originally from Charlotte and my dad used to take me on Lake Norman up until the same age as your daughter. I've not been on that lake since. I bet a lot has changed. (i.e. "crowds" you spoke of). If the farm pond we fished in belonged to me, you would be more than welcome to come wet a line. It's my dream to one day have such a pond, but for now I am dependent upon the generosity of those that do, after begging permission.
Your best bet is probably to do like I do up here. Drive out into the country and locate several farm ponds or locate them on topo maps. Then simply introduce yourself and ask the owners for permission. (But don't come with fishing pole in hand. Get permission first and come back later) It helps to tell them you want to take your daughter fishing. If you get permission, be sure to ask them about any "rules" on their pond and property. Clean up any trash around the pond, even if it's not yours. Offer them some of the fish. Most will let you keep them. Most importantly, let the land owner know how many people will be accompaning you and make sure those people know they are only welcome at YOUR pleasure. I've had pretty good success with this technique.
Our usual setup is crickets (or worms) on #6 hook, small split shot and a bobber.
Good Luck,
Barry
