Last year was my first year with a lake boat of my own, so I completely understand your apprehension. I tried launching from a few places last year and found Mazurik to be the easiest. Wild Wings was probably one of the toughest due to its setup and the fairly narrow channel runout, plus it was windy both times going out of there.

I would highly suggest Mazurik for a few reasons. It dumps right out into the lake with no runout. I had no problems with wind, waves or manuvering the boat while coming back to the ramp due to the well positioned and ample size breakwater. They give you ample room to launch (plenty of room to get your trailer where it needs to be and jockey it around to get it there). There is lots of parking and even on the busiest days in the summer, I have only waited two boats deep to launch.

I haven't launched from Catawba State Park, but I would imagine that it is probably about the same setup as Mazurik when it comes to ease of launching. You may want to look into Catawba SP due to it accessing closer to the reefs off of Camp Perry (cone, etc...). That is my plan this spring. Perhaps someone else can jump in with thoughts about Catawba SP?

You will be just fine if you take your time and think through what you're doing. I bought a handleheld GPS online for $69 to mark the breakwater entrance when I set out. Then I was able to follow the arrow back until I learned how the water towers on land looked compared to where I was wanting to come in at. If you don't have a drift sock (aka: sea anchor) yet, I would suggest getting one. Make sure you have good anchor with plenty of rope.

Good Luck!