When learning to fish a new body of water, it can definitely seem like a daunting task. But do not let the task of learning a new lake deter you from giving it a try. If you're anything like me and love exploring new lakes, you will see that this task has a learning curve making you a better angler. You may question yourself; where do I even begin? The simple answer would be do your homework and research before heading to the new body of water you intend to fish. By using both print and Internet material, you should be able to lay down a good foundation of what you should expect for your new fishing destination. Try to locate fishing reports, stocking information, present fish species, along with the population size of each. Giving a call to your local DNR officer can sometimes provide helpful insight. Overall, this information will help you determine if that particular body of water will produce the results you are hoping for. The next piece of the puzzle is utilizing lake maps to determine the areas of the lake that may be the most productive. By understanding the underwater composition of lake, you will know where the points, breaks, shallow, and deep water areas are upon arriving at the lake. This will make you much more efficient as you will be fishing the high percentage areas which should yield results. All maps are not created equal, so do not rely on just one map, as differing maps could use alternate surveying methods or are more up to date. In today's age we are very fortunate to have fish locators with GPS mapping capabilities, allowing you to know your relative position in relation to various pieces of underwater structure. Although this piece of technology is not needed, it has proved to be a valuable asset to speeding up the learning curve on a new water way. When all of the research is complete and the fishing spots are picked out, the final piece of the puzzle is execution of your game plan to tackle the body of water. Get the boat in the water and familiarize yourself with the body of water; locating the areas you picked out from your research and areas you may have missed. Time of year also may influence the areas you begin your search for fish. As you fish a new body of water, rule out non-productive areas which will allow you to focus on the areas you have found to be productive. Presentation also can be a factor when learning a new body of water. Be willing to change up lures and presentation letting the fish tell you what they like. As you learn the lake and generate some success you will be able to better pattern fish in the particular body of water.  With all that was said, it takes time to master a lake and be successful. By doing research and mapping out areas, you will have a better start place when tackling a new lake. Do not get discouraged if at first you do not succeed and be willing to give the lake a second chance, because often you will learn something new from the lake. By taking on a new lake you will become a better and more well rounded angler. So pick out a new lake today, do some research, and give it a try! Good Fishing.