CF,
Welcome to the club. I hope your ready for a challange.

I've been Pheasant hunting for about six years with mixed success. First off I would consider a good dog a prerequisite. Without a dog go fishing instead. The next big challange is getting access to good land. If you've got access to land then your chances of a successful hunt are increased. I hunt mostly public land and cover lots of miles. For this you'll need good boots. The last big challange are them damned Wild Roosters themselves. I have a young pointer just about to start her second year and the hens will hold to a point but the Roosters run big time. Both the pup and I are still learning.

One of the nice things about Pheasant hunting is it's simplicity. Once you have dog, gun, vest and boots the only expense is gas, food and lodging.

Beware of the Western Release Sites. If you don't mind Blue Creek type crowds with guns then there are certianly lots of birds to be had but it's a mess.

Good Luck!