I usually hunt a public land area opening day for Pheasants. Strictly hit and miss. Most years we get a couple, but almost always see them.
You are welcome to join us, the area is Near Knight's Landing in Yolo County.
I am not sure I will make it this year to to the state of my wife's broken foot (she will take longer to heal than your son), but will definately give you directions, if I don't go.
If you want to Boot and Shoot planted birds, Knight's Landing Sportsman's Club is pretty popular around here.
Also, if you want to give your son a chance to shoot planted birds, Quail Point Hunt Club by Zamora is preety good. Opens Oct 13th.
http://www.quailpoint.com/
Welcome to the club! And the 870 is hands down the best shotgun ever made. Will never shoot anything else, and it will be the first gun for my son and my daughter.