I also think you should start fishing with a worm and float/bobber. One thing i notice my friends do (those who do not fish a lot) is start reeling in the fish when they have a bite. You should learn how to properly set the hook on the fish first, before you reel it in. Sometimes the fish will get off the hook before you bring it in, that's common when the hook set wasn't ideal - not your fault, just something you have to get lucky with.
When i first started fishing I found soft plastic baits like senkos hard to use because you actually have to be familiar with the subtle "take" of the fish. It is usually a few light taps on the end of your line, as the bass or some other fish grab the senko worm and then proceed to try and eat it. It is much simpler to use a live worm and float to get started and get a feel for fishing
