OEX has a great starter bait tank. I made one just like it for about the same price minus gas, glue, and my time.
My first PFD was a cheapo 15 dolla special just to fulfill the law requirement. Eventually ended up with a Stolhquist that I actually wear and stuff the pockets with. Andy posted up some affordable Cracka Dawn PFDs here, not sure if any left but hit him up...
http://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwevb/s...ad.php?t=27864