Newbie in Illinois

I live in the burbs of chicago. Last year I bought a 17' Lund Rebel as
I wanted to get into fishing and got a good deal. I am interested in
hooking up with a local group or such to learn more about the sport. I
have a friend that is big time into bass fishing but every time we go
out - him in his boat me in mine - he is so friggin' hyper about
constantly moving. Also, I really don't care about just catching bass -
sorry if this is blashemy on a bass fishing group. Any help/direction
locally would be great. I do get my Wisconsin lisence each year also.

Thanks, Rick