Jimmy makes a very good point, I have a bunch of lures that are almost useless because the fish "remember" them. Live bait does not have that drawback, but obviously is not as much fun. In the beginning you may find that almost everything works but they smarten up fast. By the way, don't overlook flyfishing. I am always surprised when 2 and 3 lb Bass take a trout fly, but they do. Your old saltwater tackle might be needed on big catfish.
Have fun
