I am just startimg out with a zebco 33,with 8# line and plan on bank fishing for anything I can catch,does that sound about right?thanks.

that sounds fine.
hard to go any lower pound test on that reel. so 8 might be best

a spinning reel would be more versatile.

not trying to be a smart aleck,but why would it be more versetile?

+1 on spinning reel, the 8# line to start out...

never use a spincast reel so couldn't comment on it, but you can go lighter test line for crappie or sandbass, and go heavier for channel catfish to 10-12, but if you plan on catching blue catfish you need to go up to at least 15# line.

What I use on my light tackle r&r is a 20# braided line on the spool and leaving some room for mono line up&down depend on where/what I'm targeting. For example, sandbass on lake side, 20# braided straight; on the creek, just spool 20-30' of 6# on top of the braid line, I'm good to go...

Shelretired, I understand you are trying to get started with fishing but these very very very very simple questions could be found by using the search button or the FAQ's. This is a good place for people who spend time trying out new stuff and new areas...you should try that too. Spend time on a pond, lake, creek or wherever and try different lure, baits and hooks and lines and decide what you like.
Try any community lake in carrollton, addison, farmers branch or any others w/in driving distance. Try anything. If it doesn't work try something else. THAT is what fishing is.

Smiths101...relax and get some rest. I know you're new. You should take a look at the posting rules. Welcome to the board..

Shelretired,

You're welcome to IM me on the side and I'll help you out. But you're actually at the start of my favorite time of the year for fishing. The lakes will have crappie spawning in the shallows and the sand bass are coming up the creeks to spawn. You can use minnows below a bobber to start with your Zebco 33. Get in the right spot and you'll have some great memories. With the rain last night creek fishing will be "on like donkey kong" in a couple days. Maybe sooner..:) I can help you with some not so secret spots that you'll have some good chances with.

Later....

I agree on the spinning reel. When I first started fishing I was taught to use spincast but once I tried a spinning reel I loved it. It is as simple as the spincast at casting and easier to control a spinning reel as far as distance and accurate placement go. I still use spincast but only because I haven't been able to afford more spinning reels.With a spinning reel it's easy to cast lures and small amounts of weight depending on your # of fishing line.

Most decent spinning reels also come with an extra spool. Fill up one spool with 10# mono and the other with 15# braid. I don't have anymore spincast reels. They're nice, but spinning reels do everything they can so much better and with few to none problems once you get a little basic knowledge about your tackle.