I remember when I started studying books in the late 80's... I had many old school friends that almost seemed insulted that I was doing so... They'd all say that "you can't learn how to hunt from a book"!!! In one sense they were right... You have to put your time in the field in as well, but... I've learned a heck of a lot from the books I've read.

My books are pretty much region specific so I doubt they'd help you much, but no doubt in this day and age the info for your region is out there.

I should add a caveat to my above post... I'd be lying if I said I haven't spent money on equipment over the years. Things like my GPS(The greatest invention since the compass) ladder stands,Tcams my wheelers/snowmobile etc... But that equipment has been added over many years as I felt it was needed(Okay sometimes wanted) But there's a lot more stuff out there that I haven't and never will buy.

My point is that maybe you should take your time, and buy your equipment as you learn it's value to you... There is some really great and valuable equipment out there to be had, but you need to learn what will work for you threw experience... Just some food for thought.