I have been lurking in the background for the last couple of months. It is now time for me to get busy and start to adsorb more fishin info. I have never fished in the Salt Water. I am trying to get together all the equipment that I will need to have a enjoyable experience. I now have a boat, A Garmin Fish finder, and Down riggers (not yet installed). Any Good ideas what I should concentrate on as I get started. I will have plenty of time to Fish as I am Going to retire in Dec. Thanks for any input you may have.

Welcome! Don't let your parents know that you are coming out of the closet.

My suggestion for getting the boat wet and doing some fishing is Hood Canal.

Welcome O2B,
I agree with Easy.....may as well start your saltwater experience off with a bang and check out the Hood Canal for some chum. While you are fishing you can soak a couple of crab pots.

Next I would start thinking about winter blackmouth. Using the search feature you should be able to locate good discussions on setups, lures, bait and locations. If you have questions ask them here. Finally, try and hook up with someone who is experienced fishing the salt to see how they do it. You will learn much about the small details that separate the most successful 10% from the other 90%. Last thing, check out Salmonuniversity.com. Lots of good information. If by chance you can make it to a presentation they are putting on, do it. Good Luck.
JMS

Welcome! I also would recommend Hood Canal. Also, besides using the search engines, see if you can hook up with another fisherman on the board. Sometimes advertising that you have an open seat is a good way to get someone with a little more knowledge to share some with you. Also, see if anyone will be willing to show you the ropes a little....without some of the people on this board that I have met personally I probably would still be fishing for planted trout!

02B,
Hire a guide first. Split the cost with a buddy.
Learn all the best spots for Black Mouths.
Ask 300 questions!
Take a map, take notes.
Ask more questions!
Ask about Ling Cod, Halibut. Take notes!
Ask more questions! Guides love to talk!!!
Guides are for teaching, not just to catch you a fish

Oh yea, "Don't forget to ask some questions"

It'll be the best money spent!

grab a map, throw your gear into the car, and head off on highway 101. you're sure to catch something

i also need to hang around this forum more, this is my first time back in almost 3 years

Chum man, welcome back! I can imagine, from your user name, you may know a little something about the hot topic around here lately.......CHUMS.