I just read this whole thread. I am the "guy" from the other thread. I have been doing research for the past month or so. Reading every day. I set up the tank, all excited. I bought some Damsels to cycle the tank. Now, I really like fish. Also, after reading this thread, I aslo realized that I am not ready for an Octo. I have the knowledge... I just dont have the first-hand experience needed.
I am going to keep my tank a fish-only w/live rock. I am going to start with easy fish, like Clowns, Royal Gramma's, ect. Then, I will move to more difficult fish, Butterflyfish, Tangs, Large Angels, ect. Once I have the experience of maintaining water quality, keeping up with waterchanges and such, I will try setting up an Octo tank if I still have the interest after keeping all the amazing fish.
So, you see. These guys are great. They helped me a TON, I was determined and mind-set on an Octopus. I read and tought I was ready, and as I said above... I forgot about first hand experience. Knowing how to maintain the water, and keeping it all clean. AFter getting the Damsels, I also realized that I cannot forget one thing. These fish are hardy, so if I forget something they wont die. But eventually, I wont forget anything. It will be part of my day. And when that happens, I will know I am ready for the next challenge. Whether its corals, or an Octo... I know that there will be at least one more thing that I will need to remember.
So I am just saying, maybe you should do what I am doing. Take small steps to harder things. it will get you more experience, plus you will be able to know what to do. As you are keeping the fish, you can read, and read some more. But just be sure that you dont just keep Damsels, or really easy fish. try to evntually keep harder fish, more demanding fish to make sure that you will be able to suit the Octos needs. If you still want one after the fish tank.
Well thats my lecture for today. I hope this helps you.