You are going in the right direction - you don't need to spend a lot of money to get started. Just use or buy an old hunting bow, get some arrows, make a reel and get out there and shoot (at) some fish. You can add things over time if you get into it like a bowfishing reel (muzzy or ams retriever), then a bow, then a boat, then lights, then a generator, etc, etc, etc... Heh, heh - it CAN get expensive but it doesn't have to be.
If you've been watching youtube videos then you've probably already researched and read everything you need to get started. I'm not an expert but have learned a lot over the last few years - let me know if any specific questions.
-Drew
I actually live and bowfish in Maine so I can't tell you where to go in NY!
I take an annual trip to NY for deer hunting so that's why I like to read the NY forum. Naturally your topic caught my eye...
-Drew
Shoot me a PM if you want more info. -Drew