Noob: Do I really need to cycle for 45 days?

I'm a noob when it comes to aquaponics but I have been fascinated by it. I would like to start a small scale project in my apartment. I had read somewhere that once the system is setup, I need to let it be for 30 - 45 days before I plant anything. So should I begin by getting the parts, setting up my structure and let it be for the time being?