Chris,

IMO, rowing on a lake isn't going to teach you much. Without current pushing on the back of the boat, it feels altogether different.

Get an experienced rower to go with you, and have him row first while you concentrate on what he's doing rather than fishing. Ask him to tell you what he's doing and when......and why he's doing it that way.

You can pick up a lot in a short time with an experienced rower who can explain things to you as you go along.

The cardinal rule is to point the bow at what you don't want to hit, and row. Don't push on the oars..........it only makes you go faster, and doesn't change your position. Set up early rather that late when entering any difficult water. Keep in mind that you can only row when you have enough water to get the oars into. Lastly, don't be afraid to get out and scout, or walk the boat around something you're not comfortable rowing through. Don't let your ego get the best of you.

Have fun.........you're going to love having that boat.