Please can someone explain the difference to me between coarse, game
(sea is obvious!) and what I would call just ordinary "river" fishing!

I used to fish many years ago in the sea from the harbour and in the local
river when I was younger (about 15-20 years ago).

I want to start again, nothing really serious - but I have been spending a
lot
of time in France recently and there is an abundance of public lakes that
appear to be full of fish just waiting to be hooked! (anyone know if I need
a licence in France?)

I'm not looking to catch anything that big, probably 8-12in max. I just
want
to do it for a bit of relaxation to start with.

Can someone suggest what sort of kit I need, and approximately how much
it will cost to get up and running for a part-time "hobbyist". What is the
difference between the poles and the telescopic rods? Any new fangled
stuff that would be good? Should I go for bait, or lures? etc.etc.!

Sorry if this seems rather simplistic. but I just need some basic info to
get
me started again!

Any good websites of (well priced) angling supplies?

Thanks

Matt.