was thinking about getting into freshwater fishing. don't have a boat or float tube. is it possible to have success fishing on foot off the shore while using artificials? or would i need to acquire some sort of flotation device?

You can always get fish from shore.
It is usually easier to get around from a float tube or boat though.
What lakes are you fishing?

Steve.

anybody fish lake elizabeth lately? i've been spending a lot of time in the area lately and was wondering if there were any quality fish in that lake.

YES!!!!! You can DEFINITELY catch plenty of fish from shore. I actually prefer fishing from shore most of the time. I had an 18' aluminum bass tracker and i used it most of the time just to get across a big lake, a lot of the time i would even go beach it, then get out and bank fish. There are some places you're gonna need a boat, but if you don't have one and don't feel like getting one, don't worry about it. THe only purpose I would have for a boat is getting to a place that's too far to walk, or trolling. 90% of my fishing is from shore, and 80% of my boat fishing is within casting distance of a bank. Well, good luck with your new interest of freshwater and hope you do well.
Hunter.