First, thanks for the input on do's and don'ts. Hopefully I can avoid being chucked into the Pacific on my first trip out (by other fishermen at least.) Now for the tricky part, adding the new tackle. I am pretty well tricked out for bass fishing or fly fishing. However, for saltwater well, the cupboard is pretty bare. I need an idea of what would constitute a good start-up kit (rod, reel, terminal tackle, etc...). Probably looking at surf casting and something for trips on boats like the Stardust. If the season is winding down for the winter, this would be a perfect time for me to get the gear and get used to it before things heat up again. Also, I'm in the Sherman Oaks area, anyone know any good, knowledgable tackle shops in that area. Thanks again.