Going to venture into saltwater for the first time

[saxrulez]

I'm going to take my 1975 Airslot 165(Johnson 120hp VRO outboard) into St. Andrews Bay in Panama City, Florida for the first time soon.

I would like to have some advice to a new saltwater fisherman.

What weather reports should I be checking?

I have an automatic bilge pump, life vests, air horns. I am not going to be able to afford a radio of any type, but I do not really plan on leaving the bay at all in this boat until I am much more experienced. Is there any other important safety equipment I should look into?

Additionally, I am new to saltwater fishing in general, although I bass fish regularly. Where can I get some good info on setups to use while bay fishing?

I'm going to rinse the boat off thoroughly after use as well as flush the motor.