h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

This is the second outing in going fishing. Unlike the first outing, this time I actually caught a fish. It was a largemouth bass but it was only 5 or 6 inches long. Unfortunately, it was the only fish that was caught and since it was well under the 18 inch limit for bass, we put it back. My wife joined me and got her education started in fishing, but when I caught the fish, she was the one who jumped right in and released the fish. I told her that I need the experience with touching fish too, so she told me she won't be taking the fish off the hook anymore for me. (thanks)
It was fun tho'. We had a great time. We brought the dog along, and the dog was really happy. (note: make sure the dog can reach water at all times)
I got some feedback to my first journal entry, and I must make something clear. Yes, I am a weenie, but that is because I completely do not know what I am doing! Hey, you just keep watching. I have already improved and at least I am trying. Maybe I am not comfortable with touching slimy worms, or even fish, but I know that experience is the greatest teacher of them all, and I want to be an impressive fisherman only onto myself. I also want to pass along all the knowledge I can. I've seen the websites that supposedly deal with fishing and although they contain stuff regarding lures and such, they really don't tell you the basic of basics.
After some research here is what I have learned:
There are basically 3 different types of fish you will have to deal with in a lake/river setting. They are set apart by mouth types. The either have teeth, don't have teeth or are catfish. For fish with teeth, the best place for holding them seems to be on top of the head just behind the eyes. Make sure that you wet your hand so you do not remove the protective slime from these fish. Now, the ones that don't have teeth and are not catfish can be held by the lip or on the top of the head.
I guess catfish are the exception as they have a sharp bone defense mechanism, so here's what I have heard. Supposedly you can hold these on top of the head, but I've been recommended to wear a leather glove. Another thing is that you use the first two fingers and hold it by the gills and use your thumb to put in the corner of the mouth. The whiskers, which are the primary markings of catfish, are not the part that stings you, but I don't know if I want to take my chances.
Anyway, I cannot confirm that any of these methods work, as I have not had the opportunity to try any of them yet. I have also misplaced my towel, but at least I have stayed away from the water snakes.