I have always loved to fish, but always did so very casually. I am trying to get more serious about it now. My research on the subject led me to this site. I am curious to know how accurate the recommended fishing times on this site are. Can anyone tell me?

I just started fishing this year a few days ago. My second time out I caught an 18 inch largemouth bass. The spot I was fishing was new to me. I could see through the water what appeared to be large schools of fish of comparable size to the one I caught. I have gone back a couple times, but no luck catching any more big ones. I caught the bass using both a nightcrawler and a bass minnow while fishing near the bottom. I really don't have any experience using artificial bait or lures, but would I be luckier with those? If so, please recommend something to me! It is driving me crazy watching those big fish swim right by my line!!

Good luck to everyone this year! I look forward to reading your fishing stories and tips and seeing your pictures! I'll try to post some soon myself!