I have a question then. If all you want him for is waterfowl hunting, water work, gunfire, and birds, then look for a retriever club to join up in your area and see when they are training. Unless you do not have the time yourself and you have the $$ to send him to a trainer for a few months.
At 8 months old (not sure of his breeding), if he is retrieving on land and loves it. Then just take him out to a small piece of water (not the river) and throw a bumper or his favorite ball etc (remember you may have to go in with him so bring your waders, might attach the bumper/ball etc to a rope or string just in case he doesn't bring it back at first)....start in shallow water with him, then get a little further out each time. If he really, really loves to retrieve, he will get in after it.
There is a little bit more to gunfire (need a blank pistol or shotgun with popper shells) Heck you could even use a cap gun to start. Pigeons are always a good bird to get pups started.
Not sure of the club close to your area but I know there are some in the Denver/metro area.
Good luck,
Greg