This will be my first year bowhunting as well. I bought my bow last year right before the season, but decided to shoot it for a year prior to hunting w/ it. I've shot so much I've already replaced the string ;-)

I put up a stand in my neighbor's yard (w/ permission) and shoot back into mine. I practice from the stand as much as possible. Shooting from a stand is very different than any of the places you mention. I've gotten really comfortable in my stand at this point. I think that is important.

Just my two drachmas...