Originally Posted by TallFlyer

Clearly you've been spending way too much time on the Internet, and in particular these forums.

Two things you should consider: 1. Most of the people that take the time to post regularly here are the loud, disgruntled 5% that will always find something to whine and complain about, and that's not limited to just the regional forums here, and 2. Most of the rest of regional pilot, and even Major/National/LCC pilots, just don't care that much.

Here's my advice: figure out what works best for you. I can make a solid case for going to any of the above carriers you mentioned, save for Great Lakes, and maybe Silver. Your number one concern should be avoiding commuting. If you live in California and decide to go to Air Wisconsin you're just going to be a miserable SOB while all your SkyWest neighbors are just driving to work.

Additionally, some people see the regionals as a place to get in and get out, to make yourself competitive for the next step, and others feel the need to find someplace they could be happy spending a career if that were necessary. Find out where you exist on that scale and choose accordingly.

Lastly, I'll leave you with a quote from a former frequent poster on another board: