fishinfan

The Madison Chain of lakes produces a good number of Bass and good size as well. Big Smallies can be found in Mendota as well as Largemouth...the other lakes mostly hold big Largemouth.

There are shows that are informative and then there are shows that are just trying to sell stuff. Some of them do both and I don't mind those as much. I like Lindner's Angling Edge, Fishing with Joe Bucher, The Sportsman's Journal, Bill Dance, Jimmy Houston, Bass Pro, In-Fisherman, Midwest Outdoors, The Fishing Guide(Local show in Madison, WI), Hank Parker. The rest I don't care for...too boring or little info given on how to fish or too many products being pushed.

WOW...thank you all for all the responses and I am grateful for your input and suggestions. Just to clear things up I am a right-handed guy so I'm used to reeling in with my right hand. Just more natural for me I guess. Keep the suggestions coming and if anyone here has one for sale send me a PM or let me know where you saw a good deal. I'll try and make a desicion soon. I want to learn but also want something quality and reasonably priced. Thanks, Mike

Thanks for the info. I have been trying to read up a bit on baitcasters and I have heard there is a night/day difference with good reels and cheap ones. I'm just looking for something decent I can learn with and move up from there eventually. I appreciate the suggestion and your experience. Mike

Hi All, I am looking to find an ideal bait casting reel for myself to learn to throw and hopefully not tangle up too much with birdsnests. I bought a cheap one awhile ago but it didn't work very well. If anyone can point out some good beginner reels to use/try please let me know or if you have any for sale please let me know but again I stress beginner and not rich here. Thanks for all your help. Mike

Re: boat fishing vs. shore fishing Simple answer...YES!!! I enjoy both and anything that can get me out on the lake and away from work/bills/etc...is fine with me. I have a boat and I also fish from shore. Mike

I am from Madison, WI lots of lakes around here or anywhere in the badger state...Lake Waubesa and Mendota are my favorite spots plus a fishing pond in Verona, WI that has many big bass in it. Anyone from the Mad-Town area give a shot to my Email at Mikey68_@hotmail.com Mike