Intro & Beginner Advice Needed!

[nyrsimon]

Howdy all,

Wanted to take a second to introduce myself - new member to the forum.

I used to fish about 25 years ago in England and have just dipped my toe back into the world of fishing and am totally hooked!

So all the gear, names and a lot of the fish are VERY different from what I grew up with - theres a lot to learn.

I'm in Marlboro in Monmouth County. So far my expeditions have only been to Holmdel Park. Caught a few sunfish, a couple of Catfish and got snapped up on what looked like a bass. All of those were caught on Slim Jims

So I am looking for some advice on any good water locally - I don't have a boat and normally take my 12 yr old son with me. Manasquan Reservoir seems to get good reviews - but any specific fishing tactics for local water would be MUCH appreciated..From where I am, Marlu lake in Thompson Park is reasonably close as are the lakes/ponds in Colts Neck but no idea if I am wasting my time there

I am also looking for some advice on tackle. We both have a couple of cheap starter rod/reel combo's. All of our cathes have been on a bobber with a popeye jig/hook and, as I said, a bit of slim jim on the hook! Don't ask how I came up with that!!! I have purchased a bunch of stuff to get going so have a bunch of 'plastics' (no freakin idea what to really do with them), spinners and assorted items.

I think for now (and to keep my son interested) I am looking for quantity over quality, but after hooking that bass I really want to land another one or two in the near future!!

Anyway - if anybody can offer an advice it is much appreciated!
Thanks
Simon