New to everything

[Glenn Carbon]

Hey everyone, I'm new to the forums and new to this hobby. I've had in interest in strange fish all my life, living on the water in Louisiana I've grown especially fascinated with gar and catfish. Over the past few months I've been becoming more interested in keeping fish, as a complete beginner I'm not going to go out and buy the "coolest" fish I can just to have, I want to actually learn and know what I'm doing before I go out and buy any monster fish. I'm getting a tank soon (probably a 50-60 gallon) to learn basic management before getting any fish, stuff like keeping the water clean, filters, plants, etc. And then eventually I'll get some starter fish and then go from there.
Any suggestions or tips regarding anything would be greatly appreciated.

 

[slipshodman]

Welcome to MFK and the hobby

Good attitude to learn before committing to your new pets

There is so much to learn but i would suggest reading up on the nitrogen cycle in aquariums first, I think its probably the most important thing to learn about

And ask plenty of questions along the way, we are all here to help each other in a great hobby

 

[tlindsey]

Welcome to MFK and the hobby

Good attitude to learn before committing to your new pets

There is so much to learn but i would suggest reading up on the nitrogen cycle in aquariums first, I think its probably the most important thing to learn about

And ask plenty of questions along the way, we are all here to help each other in a great hobby

Great advice given and encouraging words.

 

[fisheatfish]

Sounds like you're on the right track. Nothing more important in this hobby than good filtration. Research as much as you can before jumping in...although some of the best lessons are gained by doing. Search mechanical & biological filtration....the importance of beneficial bacteria.

Filters include simple sponge filters (air pump required), hang on back filters, canister filters and my preference, sump (for the ease of maintenance).

 

[esoxlucius]

You sound like you have a good head on your shoulders. I agree with the above really. The nitrogen cycle is the biggie that you need to familiarise yourself with. Always research your fish before getting them and NEVER EVER become complacent. If you keep on top of your game maintainance wise you'll find it a very rewarding hobby. If you let things slip for one reason or another you can literally wipe a tank out in a matter of hours and you'll be scratching your head as to what's happened.

And of course you've got a bunch of guys and gals on here who'll point you in the right direction if you need advice. Good luck.

 

[Deadliestviper7]

A tank that size could keep a green sunfish

 

[Gourami Swami]

Welcome to MFK
I'd read this: https://users.cs.duke.edu/~narten/faq/cycling.html
And once the tank is cycled, the basic idea is to do regular water changes at least once a week to remove fish waste. It may seem like a lot of info but freshwater is actually easy once you get the hang of it. Best of luck!

 

[Glenn Carbon]

Thanks for all the replies, I'll definitely look into the nitrogen cycle.

 

[Backfromthedead]

+1 to everything regarding the nitrogen cycle! #1 mistake new fishkeepers make is not properly cycling their tank. A lot of people get so frustrated with their tanks initially they quit the hobby altogether before ever successfully keeping a fish.

 

[Itsadeepbluesea]

Welcome to the forum. The best thing to do is just continue to read whether it be posts, online articles . books etc. Learn about basic set up, what is required to run a beginner tank. Learn about the nitrogen cycle. Then get some hardy fish. There are many species that would be good to start with, so it really depends on what interests you. If you have questions always ask, there are plenty of very knowledgeable people here to help. But do remember that when asking questions on a forum there are always trolls. Just ignore them as best as possible. Before you know it you'll be experienced and working toward your gar and or catfish.