In the Pokémon TV series, Professor Oak gives Gary Squirtle at the start of his journey.
Gary Oak is Ash’s rival and Professor Oak’s grandson. When Gary begins his Pokémon journey, he visits Oak’s laboratory and selects Squirtle as his first partner. Ash arrives late and receives Pikachu instead, creating the starting point for their contrasting journeys.
Gary’s Squirtle becomes a recurring rival Pokémon for Ash. It evolves into Wartortle and later Blastoise, giving Gary a fully evolved Water-type partner for major battles. Gary’s choice also contrasts with Ash’s early Kanto team, which includes Pikachu, Caterpie, and other Pokémon caught during travel.
The answer is sometimes confused with the three Kanto starter Pokémon as a group. Squirtle is the specific starter shown as Gary’s initial choice in the anime, while Bulbasaur and Charmander are selected by other trainers in the story.