Did Y'all Have This Much Fun Before Adding Water?

[PharmrJohn]

I'm very new to this hobby, but I'm enjoying the early steps so much. I've been designing and re-designing my rockscape for days now getting it just the way I like it. I'm loving researching all the different things regarding starting a reef tank. Even checking out my local shops and imagining the possibilities. I hope this means that I'm more likely to continue to enjoy the hobby for many years.
Are there any things you feel you did wrong, or wish you did differently before adding water?

To answer your query. YES! I've got more than one hobby I'm passionate about, so my next build will be just another thing I truly enjoy.

So Greetings and Welcome to our collective obsession!!!!

 

[rhitee93]

I had a similar pathway.

There was 5 months between the time I decided to get (back) into the hobby and when my tank arrived. In that time I was slowly stockpiling stuff int he corner where the tank was going to go.

In that time I kept researching the next step in front of me and learning what I thought I was going to need. Aside from getting a longer tank, I wouldn't do much different.

 

[shcrimps]

I wish I had the $$ to put all live ocean rock in my current build.

The best/easiest tanks I have ever had were 100 percent ocean rock.

The hitchhikers are also fascinating and everyone should experience that feeling.

i have yet to used 100% pure live rock like that
but even with maybe 20-30% that i’ve used the last two tanks it’s really amazing
love looking at all the little things that come in on the rock

 

[Jimbhoy13]

Welcome to R2R and the salty world.

 

[Buckster]

Hello and Welcome to R2R! It took me a long time to plan the rock formation. I planned on having somewhat of a tunnel through the entire 6' length. I wanted several areas that would be considered flat to place corals on and I wanted the back to go straight up with the front being angled so the corals could step back. I have at least 200 plus pounds of rock which the fish love since I have produced many hiding areas. When the tangs get "freaked" they love what I've done for them!

 

[SaltyWalty]

Welcome to reef to reef. And there are many different aspects of this hobby some can be tedious but most are really enjoyable if you look at it through a learning or naturing perspective