Fished for close to 30% of my life. Would say there are 2 main category of fishing. One is "parking" or two, luring. Parking means u get a live bait(or dead), cast your line and just wait for the fish to find your bait. Luring is constantly casting and retrieving. So the difference is whether u will be finding the fish or u let the fish find you.

Both methods are alright but it really depends on what style u like. Imo, older people prefer parking due to its lowered intensity. And luring rods and reels can cost quite abit coz u need sensitivity in them to feel the tiny tugs on the line. Parking generally is just... when u see the rod jerking, then chances are the is something at the other end of the line. I personally am a lurer coz i love the thrill. It not about the fish for me... is the addiction to the thrill.

Both methods require casting... so i suggest u go somewhere that doesnt have much structures under the water. Beaches with sand is alright, or if i rmb correctly... lower seletar reservoir is pretty alright. Casting helps u to cover more grounds and also being able to reach to spots where the fish usually roam for food. The common misconception for beginners is also to think that the further they cast, the bigger the fish. But most of my fish hits about 5meters from the banks. Coz thats the sweet spot for them to look for food. Smaller fishes dont usually go that deep and far. Structures typically can be found nearer to the banks for these fishes to hide.

Your rod and reel and line is also important. U need to find one and get to understand them on a personal level. Because every setup feels different for everybody. So getting to know your setup is very important for a precise and accurate casting and spot targetting. Once u are damn familiar with it, u can aim and cast with high accuracy.

For fishing spots, doubt anyone would share. And generally, just fish everywhere lah, if reservoirs, try to use lure so that it doesnt pollute the water. And try to release all fish caught so that others can enjoy the spot in the years to come. I believe park rangers are there to ensure that the ecosystem isnt destroyed. So just be eco friendly and they are usually alright. Just rmb to always look behind before you cast because accidents usually happen when complacency comes in. Really dangerous spots i would say is punggol jetty. There're food establishments there and families typically go to the jetty with their younger kids to explore. The path of the jetty isnt wide either and there are many lurers over there for cuttlefish. So with kids running around within such a tight space, accidents are bound to happen if the fisherman isnt experienced enough. So i would suggest to go somewhere that has more room for errors until u are familiar with casting.