Advice needed for a totally NewB

[Dynrat]

I've been fishing since I was a kid, but to be honest 95% of my fishing was for panfish with a hook, bobber, and a hunk of crawler. Tried ice-fishing last year and got totally addicted. So now I've decided to try soft water fishing again. My problem is this....

Where does a guy go to get good beginner advice. I'm trying to read the posts on here, but with my limited experience I sometimes don't understand them. People talk about jigging, suspending, etc. and I don't even have the basic knowledge to know how these things are done.

Is there some basic reading that any of you might suggest to pick up the lingo/basics a little better.

Then is there any advice you pros can give to a basic newcomer with limited experience. Don't have a boat so I'll be fishing from shore. I live in New Baltimore and will probably fish around a little to find the spots (anywhere from Saint Clair Shores to Port Huron.

Any and all advice is greatly appreciated.

[Formula31]

Bass Pro Shop has a pretty good on line library. Lots of info about terminology and tactics. If you have any piers or break walls to fish just ask some of the people fishing there. Most are willing to help.:fish:

[KEITH207]

North American Fisherman has a good web site with a lot of articles.

Another idea is to join a local fishing club and pick the brains of the members.

[Joeker Jr.1]

and dont be afraid to ask questions here on M-S. :D some of the people here are a lil cooky, but the majority are always more than willing to answer questions. M-S has a wealth of knowledge floating around.

[dmax2]

:yeahthat:

[Joeker51]

and dont be afraid to ask questions here on M-S. :D some of the people here are a lil cooky, but the majority are always more than willing to answer questions. M-S has a wealth of knowledge floating around.

And this advice comes from whom............check his signature.:16suspect

[WALLEYEvision]

...Is there some basic reading that any of you might suggest to pick up the lingo/basics a little better...

Other than this site, here's a great book!

The Art of Freshwater Fishing
by Dick Sternberg

This book will teach you the techniques needed to successfully locate and catch every popular freshwater species. From the first section on fish and their environment to the last on basic gamefish techniques, let this book be your how-to guide for freshwater fishing. If you know how fish behave, you'll increase your chances of catching them. See how they use their senses, what food they prefer, how they use cover and why certain fish thrive in some bodies of water and not others. Next, it's critical to have the right equipment and know how to use it. Find out what to look for before purchasing a rod and reel. Use the right knots and know how to cast. These basics will serve you regardless of the fish you're chasing. Finally, learn some of the basic gamefish techniques that will land fish consistently. Different baits and lures require different techniques, and we show you how the experts produce the best catches of every important freshwater fish.

[Johnr]

Just try to not to ask where anyone is catching them or if can they show you their spot. Lot's of guys here including me spent a lifetime and lots of money try to find and hold our best spots. You need to respect that.
John

[Dynrat]

Just try to not to ask where anyone is catching them or if can they show you their spot. Lot's of guys here including me spent a lifetime and lots of money try to find and hold our best spots. You need to respect that.
John

I usually ask questions pertaining to conditions (like depth, presentation, etc.) but not specific spot. I can understand why some areas are carefully guardedd secrets.

[Dynrat]

Thank you all for your replies and advice. I am reading, researching, learning. There is definitely a wealth of knowledge to be had here on M-S. I just hope everyone doesn't get tired of my questions.