I have a 301, the left handed version. I can't remember when I got it, but it has to be over 50 years old and I still use it periodically.
I live in Maine and have a fly fishing friend who vowed to catch a trout from the Saint George River in every month of the year. He had a little trouble with February, but still accomplished his goal. I'd say the best time is when you're most comfortable.
I have a Bass Pro Shops/Cabela's credit card and use the points for gear. Can't get any cheaper than free.
If you just want surface temp, here's a good one:
https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/pro-series-non-contact-infrared-thermometer-1248101?cm_mmc=feed-_-GoogleShopping-_-Product-_-1248101&gclid=CjwKCAiA27LvBRB0EiwAPc8XWU8-kxz836iKkqBaWga6kGoFKnR-vPfvUJeR6neOPAO_sc1XdaS_CRoCXioQAvD_BwE
Amazon has a cheaper one, but I couldn't get the link to work. I also saw a pocket sized one about the size of a pencil, but I can't remember where.
A coworker once asked me how much money I spent on fishing equipment. He then asked how many fish I caught. I saw where he was going with that, so I asked him how much he spent on golf equipment - and how many fish did he catch. Point is, if your main focus is on catching fish rather than having a nice day outside, you'll never be satisfied.
All the above bait recommendations are good, but you shouldn't get too worried about it. I once caught a stocked trout that had 6 cigarette filters in its stomach.
Northeast would be helpful for me.
I've been using the Fish N Fool knot for years. The Palomar knot is good, but sometimes breaks if the line is twisted while tying it. https://www.netknots.com/fishing_knots/fish-n-fool-knot
On a couple occasions I've had parts disappear from my Daiwa reel while I was cleaning it. Even though it was out of warranty, they replaced the missing parts at no cost. Great customer service.
You can throw a rock from any place in Maine and hit a camp ground. They range from primitive sites to glamping so there should be something that fits your budget. You won't find 100 degree temps though.
Not sure about bunker. The stripers chase alewives (herring) and mackerel up here.
I'm pretty sure that stripers get up there. That area has great smallmouth fishing. I've had good luck on Meddybemps Lake.
I live in Kennebunk - about 250 miles south of that area.
I live in southern Maine and am one of a growing number of people who are willing to admit that they fish for bass. I fish from a 12' canoe and stick to the small ponds in my area. I also go for trout and stripers, but prefer largemouth bass. If you fish this area, I'd like to swap stories.
I'm 77 years old and use kayak paddles with a 12' Old Town pack canoe. I have no trouble traveling 2 - 3 miles during a bass fishing outing. This is more than adequate for the small ponds I go to.