LAST EDITED ON Jul-17-01 AT 02:58 PM (PST)

LAST EDITED ON Jul-17-01 AT 02:52 PM (PST)

I'm fairly new to this site and I've been reading a lot of your posts with great interest. I've also explored a fair amount of the web searching for just about any type of information I can find.

I've pretty much been a trout fisherman my whole life, but I have to tell you - you've given me a new perspective. I'm not a bass fisherman as of yet - but I think I'm going to have to give this bass stuff a try.

A came to this conclusion after a lot of thought and research.

One of the most appealing things about bass is that you can fish them with a variety of artificial baits. It's not the ol' bait (like *gasp* powerbait!)on a hook, throw it and wait. I like the fact that bass fishing is so interactive.

I've also come to the conclusion that I hate catching fish raised in hatcheries. I'd love to catch wild trout, but the opportunity to do that here is pretty slim. Some lakes basically get fished out of trout by certain times of the year too. The idea of catching fish that have been in the lake for more than a couple weeks sounds pretty good :) I also like the fact that you guys advocate "catch and release" - especially since I don't really like to eat fish! It's all good.

OK - so I'm thinking of taking the plunge. How in the heck do I get started? All I have is light action gear specifically designed for trout. I can't afford a whole lot right now and will have to work my way up to getting fully equipped.

I'd love to get your feedback. Basic rod and reel set up and some must have baits. I took a poll earlier and power worms seem to be a hit. I'm trying to learn all these terms like "texas rig" and "carolina rig," etc. - but I gotta tell you - it's overwhelming to learn all this stuff.

I've read the articles on this site - and some others and I'm still learning every day. I know the most important thing to do is to just get out there and go for it and I will.

Thanks.

Additional - I should add that I live in Orange County and I do own a float tube (Caddis Navigator).