Instead of getting a Snoopy rod and reel like I did for my oldest son, I opted to get the younger one a base model Shimano (Sienna) reel and an ice fishing rod. It was fun for several trout. And when he was ready for a bigger rod, I just kept the reel and upgraded.
http://www.basspro.com/Shakespeare-S...4041403013057/
I didn't get this exact Shakespeare rod, but it was something like it.