I would reccommend you started off with an older dog that is already trained. The older dogs are slower and if you decide you like it and want a puppy the older dog will be of great help in training the puppy. You need to get a copy of the bood Walk With Wick, by John Wick. It is the hound trainers bible. I don' t think it is in print anymore, Wick Outdoors Products would be the contact. You will need a wheat light of some sort and a pair of hip waders. Go to http://www.huntsmart.com/index.cfm?eid=28, they have everything you need to get started in coon hunting except the dogs. If there are any hunters in your area, talk to them, I' m sure they would be happy to help you also.