Getting back into the hobby

jmc289090 · Dec 27, 2024

I kept a reef tank from my mid teens to early 20's -- I've been out of the hobby for about a decade.

Now I can afford what's need -- but I've been passively looking into what I'd like to do for a lower maintenance smaller setup.
Occasionally I'll have dreams about my old fish and livestock -- I did break it down due to being too busy with college and only recently have had the time/resources to consider it.

What advice would you give for somebody who's not in a rush to get back into the hobby or seems somewhat tentative about it and wants something that's very straightforward?

I realize that's an odd question -- perhaps some of you have had this sort of a feeling when looking to get back into the hobby again.

revhtree · Dec 27, 2024

Welcome to your new home for saltwater reef aquarium resources and fun! Welcome to the family! :D

vetteguy53081 · Dec 27, 2024

Crabs McJones · Dec 27, 2024

Welcome to R2R!

FindinNemo · Dec 27, 2024

Welcome to R2R!

Fish Fan · Dec 27, 2024

Welcome to Reef2Reef!

tbrown · Dec 27, 2024

jmc289090 said:
I kept a reef tank from my mid teens to early 20's -- I've been out of the hobby for about a decade.

Now I can afford what's need -- but I've been passively looking into what I'd like to do for a lower maintenance smaller setup.
Occasionally I'll have dreams about my old fish and livestock -- I did break it down due to being too busy with college and only recently have had the time/resources to consider it.

What advice would you give for somebody who's not in a rush to get back into the hobby or seems somewhat tentative about it and wants something that's very straightforward?

I realize that's an odd question -- perhaps some of you have had this sort of a feeling when looking to get back into the hobby again.

Welcome back and welcome to Reef2Reef!

Best advice I can give is if you're not in a huge hurry, get what you want and put it together right.

RedReefer · Dec 27, 2024

Welcome to R2R!!!!

Johnd651 · Dec 27, 2024

jmc289090 said:
I kept a reef tank from my mid teens to early 20's -- I've been out of the hobby for about a decade.

Now I can afford what's need -- but I've been passively looking into what I'd like to do for a lower maintenance smaller setup.
Occasionally I'll have dreams about my old fish and livestock -- I did break it down due to being too busy with college and only recently have had the time/resources to consider it.

What advice would you give for somebody who's not in a rush to get back into the hobby or seems somewhat tentative about it and wants something that's very straightforward?

I realize that's an odd question -- perhaps some of you have had this sort of a feeling when looking to get back into the hobby again.

Welcome. Being in a similar boat, I learned not to jump on the "new" easy method of tank setup. Like dry rock only, or some instant start additives. They are not bad, but are not really amazing either. Definitely slow and steady.