I have fished matches on and off since the age of 11 and Im now 54.
After the onslaught of carp puddles I stuck it out for another few years but then retired out of it as I hate carp puddles.
During that time I fished club matches ,open circuit, team fished and enjoyed a couple of heady years of sponsorship.
My point is I guess I know were your coming from.
I couldnt agree more with Darren. Start with a good club with a decent match calender.
Fishing opens from the off is a mugs game and is probably going to discourage you and will definitely skin your wallet.
You will be surprised at how quickly you learn.
Always make a point of opening your ears and eyes and following the scales round after as well. You will find the best pegs for practice and 9 times out of 10 the guys will be nattering about what and how they did whatever.
Just listen and soak it in. Wait until the results and then go and natter to them.
If your looking to pick up money try and limit your venues as you progress. Learning 3 or 4 regular match venues well will pay dividends moreso than trying to be an all rounder. That will come with time and practice.