Tip I am in Alabama and deal with the same frustrations. I have not found a solution. When I increase my ISO I get too much noise and it never looks good. Tripod just doesn't help either. I am also a novice but have come to the conclusion that it will take an expensive 2.8 300mm or 400mm lense to get the shot. I can't afford the lense so I have not solved the issue either. Let me know if you find a solution. I would love to hear it.

Matt