I have reached the point where I REALLY want to focus on getting better at the bass, and I've come to the decision to get professional instruction. Does anyone have any advice regarding the best way to find Bass Lessons in my area? I live in Orange County, CA.

WOM is best way to find teachers in my experience. Go to music stores (that don't offer lessons) and ask if they know anyone. Hear a bass player you like ask them if they know any teachers.

Most important put together a good description of what you know so far. What you want to learn, basics, certain style or technique. Tell them you want to try a couple lessons before committing (especially if a store.) That makes it easier to call it quits if it doesn't feel like its working. Don't be afraid to tell a teacher its not working. Teachers have different styles of teaching and explaining things and even if they are a great player they might not be explaining things so you understand them.

This is a good site (http://www.musicstaff.com/search.asp) for finding teachers in your area. Just put in "bass" and your zip code and it'll give you a list of teachers and their contact info.

Caol Kaye gives private lessons and is located in Valencia. She doesn't take rank beginners and prefers guys with some experience playing, but it's worth contacting her anyhow. She can refer you to a good teacher in your area.