Don't worry about just starting now. I'm in the same boat as you. I just got my hunter's education certificate a few weeks ago and I've been shooting my bow almost every day. If you choose the bowhunting route, I recommend shooting whenever you can. Pick a few spots around you that are public hunting land, learn about their landscape and regulations, and apply for tags, licenses, other required elements. Use this site. I've learned so much, and if you ask questions, they will most likely be answered. Also, once season starts, get out as much as you can. That's what I plan on doing, but if you choose to hunt with a firearm, your season may be shorter. Let's hope that both of us enjoy our first season.