Burk, it ALWAYS rains and storms at Rathbun.LOL Just watch the main lake should it get real windy out of the south. Lots of ramps around the lake to get out of the wind. For a 1st timer, head to Crappie Cove or the Bridgeview area. I'm heading down in a little while for the tourn this weekend. The boys just called and said they had a NICE bunch of fish. These guys only fish jigs. Tim's right, it'll take 11-12# to win (7 fish) and a 2+ for big fish. By the way, Bridgeview is a nice spot to camp, with a bait shop right across the road. Flag me down if you see me, black/silver BassMasters bassboat with a 115 Evinrude and a "short baldheaded" guy driving.
Roger
If everyone concentrated on the important things in life, there would be a shortage of fishing poles. :D