USSFN:  4/03/05 - I just had the opportunity to watch this DVD and I have to tell you it's an excellent tool for the novice, and even the experienced, bass angler.  For many of us out there on the lakes, we can have the right reels, rods, line, lures and terminal tackle without really getting the results that we'd like.  Well, your wait is over.

Chuck, along with bass fishing champion Michael O'Shea, explain how to choose the equipment that you will need.  From rods and reels to line weights, lures and even knots...they're all covered in here.  You might expect that from this DVD, and they cover the "how's", "when's" and "where's" as well.

However, in my opinion, what separates this instructional video from others that I've seen are the "why's" and "what the lure should look like in action".  Too many times I've observed fishermen use two basic styles of retrieves...either a steady smooth retrieve or a strong jigging/jerking style.  The problem is that many of the lures that they're using were never designed for either style.

It's truly amazing to watch a pro like Michael O'Shea in action.  He shows you exactly what the desired lure action is underwater and you can see the rod movements necessary to make this happen.  The other thing that I could appreciate about this is that not once do they pull out a trophy fish.  In other words, this was made for the everyday angler that just wants to have a little better success out on the water.

I also applaud them for bringing up fishing with kids.  The key, as they explain it, is to remember that when taking young anglers along, their attention span isn't as long as adults.  The kids are also using good equipment as opposed to something that adults wouldn't even consider using.

I have no doubt that I'll go back and check out the lure presentations and casting/retrieving styles again on this.  I guess it's true that you're never too old to learn.  In my opinion, "Bass Fishing - The Basics with Chuck Woolery", gets two rod tips up!

~ Jim@USSFN