Just picked up my first fishing boat about a week ago. I have always loved to fish but never had a chance to get serious. Been in boats and on lakes all my life but the only fishing has been under bridges for Crappie.

Looking for some help on the best place to get caught up- Mags, TV, Shows etc

Maybe a Top 10 TFF do/don'ts or must haves, must know ???

Thanks!

Pick out what type of fish you want to catch and hang out in that section of the forum. Great people and info on here.

keep your bait selection simple.

1st foremost learn your boat. Learn loading and unloading in a timely manner don't be the guy at the bottom of the ramp pulling out his rods and undoing straps. Nothing will tick people off like someone taking forever at the boat ramp. Don't be afraid to ask for help if your alone. Luckily winter is coming so you will have lots of practice time. Good luck man!

Toms advice is great. Spend a lot of time in the forum of the kinda fish you wanna catch. I'm partial to catching blue catfish, but there are tons of species out there.

Forget about the forum. Spend time on the water. You cannot learn to play a guitar by reading, and you cannot learn the water by reading. You can find out about new tricks, but hook up with someone who knows some things and you will learn much faster.

It's ok to discuss things here, sure, but for a novice, there's way too much information and you don't need about 99% of it.

Time on the water, that's the secret. There are no shortcuts.

All good advice, but time on the water is the best.

Enjoy your new boat!

I wouldn't say forget about the forum. If you're new trying to get things figured out, you have to have somewhere to start. Biggest thing is learn your boat and how everything works. Be aware of the body of water you are fishing for your own safety. You can't catch fish if you're dead. Hope you whack 'em dude!

Time on the water will work. If you want to get a jump start, hire a guide who provides instruction. A good guide can teach you about fish, the lake, your electronics, your boat, etc.

Hiring a guide on your home lake is your best bet. He will save you days of learning and searching on your own.

Also, use the fall/winter months to get to know your boat.

Stay on the TFF.

Best advice. I have been out with some great guides this year. Learning your home lake can be frustrating if it is a large lake. You will save time and gas money if you find a good guide to show you the lake.