Well, you have lots of great options. Kentucky Lake, Pickwick and Guntersville are all fairly close. If you want to fish Pickwick and the Tennessee River I can
"guide" you for free!
For specific advice on gear we need a pricing point, but generically you need to
start with a MHF baitcasting rig for single hooks, MM for treble hooks and MF
spinning rod. Start with some basic tackle: soft plastics and jigs; Zara Spook or
Sammy; Bandit 200 and Red Eye Shad; spinnerbait.
The Mid South is know for crappie and blue gill; largemouth, smallmouth and
white bass; striper, catfish and drum (ick). The fishing "season" is from January 1 through December 31. Review fishing regulations and be safe on the water.