In that case the first thing I would do is sign up with your State Division of Wildlife Resources (or the equivalent) for some hunter safety classes. These deal mainly with gun safety, hunting regulations, and ethics, which is not a bad place to start. Eons ago when I took it they even delved into wilderness survival a bit. Depending on your state law it may be mandatory for hunting anyway, but even if it isn't that's where I would begin. I had to supply my own weapon (I used a Savage rifle/shotgun combo) but I'm sure they will let you know what you will need.

You may also try contacting the NRA for some of their gun safety courses.

Regards, Vince