so as a newbie i understand i need a hobby phone. whats the best option these days assuming it wont get much use?...thanks in advance

I use Google Voice. Integrates with smartphones, easy to delete history, etc.

and buy one of those pre-paid phones.  Buy it with cash, go to a public library and register it under whatever name you want to, and always buy your minutes in cash - no tracks.  The reason I say to register it at a public library is no tracks on the registration IP address either.

Good Luck, and most importantly, have fun!!!

just buy it with cash & use the menu (center button) right on the handset to add minutes which you also buy with cash.  
I did link mine to my hobby email and has been trouble free but it's not necessary.  I bought a nice Motorola flip phone for $20 at WalMart.  I add the $20/90 day cards...  never use up the minutes.  Cheapest.  After 3 years, I wanted a new phone, had to call in to get the service switched.  Never asked for address or anything.  The hobby phone is shut & stored safely when not in use.  The newer hobby phone keeps it's charge way better.  I like the flip phone as I just switch phones in my belt carrier when I'm playing.  When I'm charging I plug the phone in with all my bank of cordless tools in the shed...  hide the phone itself.  

If you can afford to play, you can afford the hobby phone.

I got mine at Target, I've got an LG model, works great.

add minutes with a top-up card bought with cash.  The name, address (used for area code) and email address are fiction.

of the country.  You might want to check your area & see who they use.  My old TF ended up in Texas & TF required to change the chipset.  
H