As for the mods, well that depends on your preferences. The LwAmi Mod is a good one for starters, but in the long run you might want to experience with the RA or AT mod because they add "new" playables.
As for gettin into the game in the first place ... try the DW Wiki and the CADC at
www.commanders-academy.com there as well as at
www.subguru.com you will find usefull information and downloads.
A good starting point is the "Landlubbers Guide" ... read that and then go on from there. If you encounter problems along the road, come back here or at the CADC and ask your questions.