Bird Dog and Gun Dog by R. Wolters are excellent reads.. I started my pup at 6 weeks, real slow and playful. It's amazing how fast they learn and want to please you. When you train your dog with consistency, the bond between you and the dog is immeasurable. Wolters stresses training without severe discipline. You can get your dog to work for you and make it fun for both of you.
If you dont have the time, Call Brad Turner at Stillmotion Kennels.360-629-3111 . He'll work with you on a daily basis or if you want to leave your dog he'll do that too. His rates are around $16 a day.
I take my lab to him for a couple of sessions before pheasant season and he'll spin some live birds and we'll get the dog and me back in tune. He's up around Stanwood. Hope this helps.
I also think next year would be good for your dog. I took my lab with me when he was about 6 months old on a pheasant hunt at a release site during the middle of the week. No other hunters . We had a good walk. Guess what. the pup flushed a hen and we got her!