Here come the stupid questions!

[Twinsprtsfan]

Well, went fishing this past weekend during a family camping trip. It was pretty cold, but decided to fish anyway. Did not come away with anything except questions, so if you all could help me out, I would appreciate it.

First of all, I did take your advice and fished with the stickbait with the wacky rig. Also used live wigglers and tried out a 1/8 oz rattle trap just for fun, since I have never used one before. I did not mind not catching anything, since I needed to practice casting and in general, fishing.

1. Would you guys suggest that I get a guide and go out for a half day and try to learn some basics from him while fishing? Or would I be wasting my money at this point, since I am a beginner?

2. Somebody else fishing said I needed to use 2LB line as a leader, about 2 or 3 foot of it, tie it to my swivel which is tied to my 8LB line. Is this what I should be doing? This question will show you how new I am at this sport.

Also, because I was with the family, I was fishing at all different times of the day, and probably not the ideal times for fishing. What exactly are the "ideal" times for fishing?

I am going to head to the lake in my neighborhood just to cast a few and see what happens today after work.