Going Outside The Box

I've been fishing since 2011. About 90% huge ponds and about 10% lakes here and there in my kayak. I want to venture out to bigger waters. Mainly go to ponds more and even hit some rivers. Would be good to get a gar, bowfin, something different here and there. However I am really wanting to get not just bigger bass, but a bigger picture of how the water environment is different on bigger waters. Any links, articles here on BR, or books maybe to help me get set for the new waters? People tell me all the time that the river currents are bad and I need to be careful. I've visited the Cape Fear river here in NC for a nice trail hike. Current is rougher in some places but still in others like glass. This river is about 10 minutes from our house. Thanks guys!

Joe