A little practice out in the yard. A bucket, a coffee can, under the garage door raised up a few inches, under a chair, the deck in the back yard. You name it all make great practice. Get proficient in the yard. Then get on the boat and give it a whirl. Boat control is a large part of it. Got a buddy that wants to shoot with you? Great take turns keeping the boat in place while the other one shoots. Shakespeare makes a Micro lite series of rods. Cork handle, light action, and $20 at most Walmarts. Shoot long enough and the dock will claim it's pound of flesh. Get to close and let the rod tip slap the dock and it will break. It is some of the most fun fishing that I have done. Way back in the dark recesses of the docks lives the monsters. Most importantly go and enjoy yourself.