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Newbie here for advice #12371979 08/04/17 04:58 AM
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 10
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Doc_K Offline OP
Green Horn
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Green Horn
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Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 10
I just recently was able to purchase my first boat and would like to take my son out fishing. I am by no means an experienced fisherman but learned the basics growing up and wish only to improve upon those skills. First the boat is a 20' pontoon boat, ( i wanted a bay boat by this was the wife's compromise). It is not set up with live wells etc but more of a party boat. As we gain success fishing, we will keep more of our catches but our first few outings will be catch and release. I already have a license, disabled vet combo, and now just need equipment.

So here is my dilemma, fishing has gained leaps and bounds in the gear department since I was young. I am not looking to compete or catch the prize of the lake, just want me and my son to share some quality time with rods in the water. Can someone steer me in the direction of a starter kit that will get us close to our needs? I realize that there is no do all kit and that pieces will be needed but I just want something to get us started and in my down time I can research what else may suite our needs. We will be fishing central Texas, Belton and Stillhouse lakes and will be from the pontoon boat. Any ideas or advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Re: Newbie here for advice [Re: Doc_K] #12372046 08/04/17 11:19 AM
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 3,290
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Dayne Offline
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If you don't have a trolling motor, put one on your list.

Re: Newbie here for advice [Re: Doc_K] #12372305 08/04/17 03:34 PM
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Posts: 979
Rob Jasper Lowrance Pro-Staff Offline
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Agree Trolling Motor is a must have. Initially keep your electronics simple. The Lowrance HOOK 4 or 7 (based on your budget) would be a good one to start with.
Good Luck and hope your family has lots of fun!!!


Rob Jasper
Re: Newbie here for advice [Re: Doc_K] #12372459 08/04/17 05:46 PM
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V-Bottom Offline
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Do you have a Bimini Top installed on your boat?


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Re: Newbie here for advice [Re: Doc_K] #12372613 08/04/17 08:07 PM
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Capt Craig Offline
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I highly recommend a trolling motor if you want to be able to fish easily and with greater success, I recommend getting a Minn Kota with the Spot Lock feature, It will help you be more successful and without the need to constantly touch it to stay in one area.

Not all sonar is created the same. Humminbird is the current leader in the field. A simple Helix unit with sonar and chartplotter functions will do the trick. Side and Down Imaging is not necessary to catch fish. You will need a map card and Navionics will do nicely.

I am finishing up a 34 page manual called Introduction to Temperate Bass that covers white bass, hybrids, and striped bass if that interests you any. It will help speed up the learning process and help to educate you on one of the most sought after fishes common on many lakes. The manual covers rods, reels, lines, lures and locations and more.


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Re: Newbie here for advice [Re: Doc_K] #12373197 08/05/17 02:55 AM
Joined: Jan 2016
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Doc_K Offline OP
Green Horn
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Yes i do have a bimini top on the boat. Thanks for all the pointers. I will look into the electronics listed above.

Re: Newbie here for advice [Re: Dayne] #12374719 08/06/17 06:19 PM
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Lazy Ike Offline
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+ 1 on trolling motor,can find em used on f.f trade sell, make sure shaft is long enough for your toon probably min 60lb thrust pontoons catch lot of wind[never windy in c tx. lol]. Run down to walmart or academy, may catch a sale, and buy inexpensive started rod reel combo.Last but not least I would make sure son has good time,[don't get too serious about if he is young you may burn him out on it, lastly maybe save some learning time on catchin & hire guide for sandbass or crappie,good uns will help you learn a lot. Hope this helps,HAVE FUN let me know how it goes.IKE

Re: Newbie here for advice [Re: Doc_K] #12377859 08/08/17 09:24 PM
Joined: Jun 2017
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Check with David at shut-up-and-fish when you're wanting to purchase equipment.




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