Welcome to SU!
Few words of advice, I'm no expert but I think these are important and sometimes overlooked. I also remind myself of some of these things often.
1.Fish bodies of water you know contain the size fish you are targeting, not all do.
2. Only fish locations in those bodies of water that will produce fish, not all will.
3. Fish high percentage baits only, proven big fish catchers. Check the Got Em section, there are obvious baits that fit that description.
4. Ignore popular trends and hot new approaches, they soon fade usually. Look for proven history.
5.Spend ridiculous amounts of time learning your waters and how and when to properly present those baits.
6. Don't get too hung up in details, many rods, reels, lines and hooks will get you where you want to go, find what suits YOU best.
7. Don't veer off course and believe everything you read on the Internet, there are some people very good at reciting things they have read elsewhere. Some which comes from absolutely zero experience on their parts. Be cautious and once again look for repeatable history of advice.
8.if you think the fish are there, they are. You are the reason they aren't biting, not every other excuse you come up with. Don't give up, put in more time.
9. Be confident, without a doubt in your mind know that you will catch big fish, they are there, they want what you throw, where you throw it and its just a matter of time before it happens. You must believe this without doubt, or your lack of confidence will doom you.
10. Fish hard and have fun!
Hope this helps kick off your addiction in a positive direction.
Best post I have seen in awhile !!