Kaiser...You are not far from me at all and I am pretty sure I will be going out Monday if you want to come? I am new to this too but I have found some on my own!
Search James Giacalone on facebook and shoot me a friend request. At a minimum you should have knee length boots to get in the water(I got mine at walmart for 20.00) some long heavy duty rubber gloves because that water is cold this time of year. And I would say to pick up a Garrette Panning Kit which I think we could get you at a local store near the creeks.
I'm in Dublin. About 45 mins. Below Macon A friend and I are starting to get interested in panning but I'm not sure where we can go. I'd hate to find a random stream just to find out I can't be there haha