You will definitely need the hunter course, so I would start there. When you complete that let the guys know on this forum. I am sure one of us can take you squirl, rabbit, or pheasant hunting to start off. The best way to hunt is to start small and research the area you want to hunt. My wife calls it hiking with a gun. The thing about these forums is that until we get closer to the hunting seasons they get a little stale. I am in Monument CO and know of the places down here in the southwest and the places by Burlington. I don't know much about the upper north. But the drive should not be too bad. Also as a precaution get the people you are going hunting with names and pictures and meet in a public place. You want a record of who takes you and pass that on to your parents or friends to keep you safe. Not that there are a bunch of trolls out there with guns but with the internet to meet people you never know about some people. You know woods.. alone..with someone you don't know. caution please..