I need some advice.

[hawgsquatch]

I will be retiring soon, single, kids are raised and I have a bit of cash stashed. I am thinking of moving to the south for a while to hunt and fish animals that I have not experienced yet. I am a normal guy and here I hunt Elk, deer, black bear, waterfowl, grouse, quail, turkey, pigs, grey squirrels and varmints. We fish for Salmon, steelhead, trout, bass, panfish and nearshore salwater stuff out to about ten miles. California has become so politically screwed I just can't stand to live here anymore. My questions are.....

Where sholud I look to move? I think I will rent, unless I can buy a small house really cheaply. I have no problem living twenty miles out in the sticks, I actually prefer it. I have lived with no electricity and an outhouse and loved it.

How hard is it to get a concealed carry permit? I will be a retired LEO.

Is there any public land or will I need a lease in order to hunt? Is there small game hunting?

Are southerners really as polite as they seem?

Is part time work available. I think I will get bored fishing/hunting 7 days a week. I am capable of physical labor and will only be 44 when
I move. I have mechanical and welding skills as well as electrical and hydraulic. I also have three college degrees, but would prefer to work with my hands. Life is simpler when you twist wrenches.

How bad is the meth problem there. I am just wondering because here it is impossible to leave my truck at a boat launch and expect to find it intact at the end of the day.

Thank you everyone, and if you are ever in Northern Kalifornia message me and we will go kill something.