I intend to violate one of the core principles of R/C aircraft flying, and I'm hoping you can help me succeed.

Ihave zero R/C flying time; however, Iwant to learn to fly without using an instructor. And, to complicate matters, I've modified my Alpha Trainer to add floats and intend to take off from a 1-acre pond on our property. So my first-ever R/C takeoff will be from water ditto for the hoped-for landing. On a modified trainer. Now, to degrade things further, I am also a rated pilot in full scale aircraft. (I'm told this is a handicap?) Single-engine, multi-engine, commercial, instrument, and seaplane ratings. The only other factors are overhead power lines (which are mostly out of the way) and lots of trees, although a reasonable sized clear area is adjacent to the pond.

Here is my question, and Iask you to please help:

Given all of your knowledge of flying R/C aircraft, what would you recommend that I do to increase the chances that Isuccessfullymanage the climb-out, maneuvers, and return for landing? Iknow it is recommended to have an instructor please overlook that and give me your best advice on how to do it without one.

Thank you.