I don't live near Thornton. Your best bet when getting started is to go with someone that knows what they're doing. Maybe someone up that way can get out with you. Really cuts the learning curve.
If not, you might start going out to the lakes and ponds in the area and instead of fishing..walk around and talk to the people that are fishing those locations. You might meet someone who can get you started and you'll also be able to watch and see what others are doing.
If not, you might start going out to the lakes and ponds in the area and instead of fishing..walk around and talk to the people that are fishing those locations. You might meet someone who can get you started and you'll also be able to watch and see what others are doing.