Thread: Newbie Questions

All,
Just found the site, really enjoying it so far! I'm from central AL, experienced fresh water fisherman (bass, catfish, panfish), but have never really fished the salt. Coming down late June w/family for a week or so, staying at the KOA campground in Lillian (Gulf Shores/West Pensacola). We'll have parts of about 3-4 days to fish, will have a couple of teenage boys with us (son and friend) and would really like to get them on some fish. Priorities would be: 1) help the boys catch fish, any fish (attention will turn to teenage girls pretty quickly otherwise, likely will anyway! ), and 2) would really like to target flounder or speckled trout if they're in season/water conditions OK/accessible from shore/pier, etc.
I truly no absolutely nothing about saltwater fishing, but am looking forward to getting away, seeing some different scenery, etc. Any advice/point of reference for basic tackle/techniques/rigging as well as likely locations to try would be much appreciated. I've been able to pick up some basic info from surfing the site here, so you guys have already been helpful in that regard. Mom's not an early riser, so I figure we could hit the water early and get in 2-3 hrs most days, possibly late afternoon as well. If you don't mind sharing a couple of suggestions for shore fishing near the campground where we'll be staying that would be particularly helpful.
Many thanks!
Les

Hello, Les. On behalf of all the Forum Members, welcome aboard. If you already posses gear for bass, crappie, catfish, and all, that is fine for fishing in the Gulf. Give your gear a freshwater rinse every day or so. With the time you have before your trip, may I suggest you check out the Search features here on the Forum. You can find tips on how the gear you own can target the different salt water species that inhabit the northern Gulf coast. If you use the Tips & Terminology page, you will arrive better armed to enjoy your visit, and increase your enjoyment, imho. Good Luck. A post some pictures!