>>73886I'm in the same boat (
>>73423 here). Here's a few things I've come across that might prove of value to you.
First thing, of course, is to decide on your game and weapon of choice, obtain said weapon, and practice with it to become a good shot. If you are new to shooting, a .22 rifle is a good way to get started... BUT... this goddamn ammo shortage means you might not have much luck finding ammo to shoot with. That's almost hunting in and of itself. If you are going to use a higher-caliber rifle, though, you'll eventually want to practice with that so you can get used to it.
Small game like squirrel and rabbit are touted as a good place to start. On top of which, you might be able to do those with an air rifle if you can't scrounge up .22 ammo. You can also use shotguns, but you wind up possible ripping up some of the meat and having to comb through for shot.
Speaking of small game, squirrel hunting has been described as "deer hunting in miniature." A lot of folks say it's good for learning/brushing up on skills for deer season.
DON'T BE AFRAID TO WALK UP TO FOLKS AND ASK. I hung back at places like Cabela's and other sporting stores for a while because I figured I'd get laughed out of the place for being an older guy that has never even fired a "real" firearm, let alone hunted. Nope. Everyone I've talked to has been very friendly and wished me luck in my endeavors.
See if there is a hunting club or conservation group like Whitetails Unlimited in your group, depending on your chosen game.
A few books that I've found interesting and helpful, especially if you're still wondering IF you want to hunt:
"Successful Small Game Hunting" - M. D. Johnson
"Call of the Mild" - Lily Raff McCaulou
"The Politically Incorrect Guide to: Hunting" Frank Miniter
