just started with the alabama rig need some tips/pointers thanks

i dont throw mine often but what i do is a 7'9" Heavy rod like a swimbait rod, 65lb braid. I use either weighted swimbait hooks (1/8 oz) or jigheads in 1/8 or 1/4 oz. I throw it out and let it sink and tick it along the bottom. Either that or i will throw it in shallow-ish water and burn it back. I like paddle tail swimbaits from grande bass or of course the yum swimbaits. That is about how i go about it. Others may vary.

The Rig seems to be most effective in spring and fall when water temperatures are <65*

Target areas where you are graphing baitfish, that is the key!

Main thing is to manage expectation. The A-rig is a specific presentation for specific circumstances. Spring and Fall when bass are chasing schools of baitfish like RW said are ideal. While doubles and triples are possible it's not a guarantee or the main purpose for throwing the rig. Rules vary by state so check the regs. where you live regarding number of hooks etc.