Welcome Sparky, I'm kinda of a newcomer too, got into FTA about two years ago. It's amazing all the cool programming that is out there. Local news broadcasts from all over the US. Lyngsat has all the TV sat info on every bird we can see on planet earth.
Two ways to get started, get a motorized dish, or set up a small array. If you ask around, discarded dishes will rain upon you for free or nearly so. Since this is a DIY hobby where the enthusiasts are scattered hundreds of miles apart, read, read, read. You'll get a feel for what can be done, and what others are doing.
As far as the piracy stuff, don't let anyone sh*t you, it is way more trouble than it is worth. A subscription to Dish or Direct is only $30/month.
For the cost of only 8 to 10 months of Dish or Direct, you can get a pretty decent starter system that you never have to pay monthly fees to watch.
Only one (two?) drawback(s), it really helps if you are handy and a problem solver, and it could prove addictive. An understanding spousal unit is a great asset.