Fishing can be all about timing. The spring and the fall of the year the fish come shallow to feed up heavily. In the spring they do it to spawn. In the fall they do it prior to winter. These two seasons represent your best chance to catch something close to shore. Now largemouth are different creatures all together, and all the of times the biggest fish will find the thickest, nastiest stuff to find protection. That type of fishing doesn't suit well for beginners. If you are seriously interested in learning look to join a bass club in your area as a non-boater. That will give you a good start to your education. For us fanatics it's a lifetime of learning. Best of luck.