I'd really like to start a portfolio and it seems like it's gonna be really hard

That's the attitude - seize the day!

Have you attempted contact with local photographers?

Everything worthwhile takes work, some days will be easier than others; real question is, how committed are you?

First thing will be to consider the snarky comments and realize that they are actually meant to be useful to you.  Modeling is hard, especially just starting out, and if they have shocked into realizing that fact and incorporating it into your thinking, then they've accomplished their purpose.

That done, the next thing I'd advise you to do is to click on "browse" in the tool bar above and look at all the portfolios of the photographers within your easy strike distance, probably 50 miles.  Make a list of all those whose work you like and you think you may be right for.  Write a nice, polite honest note, telling them what it is in their work that drew you to them, and that you'd appreciate it if they'd consider doing a TF (Trade For, meaning nobody gets paid, other than in pictures) shoot with you for developing your portfolio.  Don't worry about whether they say they accept TF or not; everybody does from time to time, it's just a matter of whether or not you have something that interests them and if they have the time for it when they're contacted.  At worst they'll say no, and some might be kinda snarky about it, but if you're honest and willing to work at it, some will be happy to help.  Whether they say yes or no, write back, again politely, thanking them for taking the trouble to reply.

Just to the right of browse, you'll see the casting/travel button.  Click that and follow the instructions to browse through the casting notices for the ones that you fit and reply to them.  While you're there, it wouldn't hurt to put up a casting notice and an availability notice of your own.  There's usually a match there for everybody that's willing to look for it.

When you've done that, wander on over to the 3rd list, (https://www.modelmayhem.com/po.php?thread_id=927266) ask for a portfolio review and look for a mentor near you.  You should also go to the Big Buddy thread at the top of the Newbie Forum (this forum) and send a PM to any of the Big Buddies there who offer help in the areas where you feel you need it.

That wasn't all that hard, now, was it?

Good Luck!

It is a lot harder for male models, unless you are in the large markets (NY, Chicago, LA.)

You are at the top of the height range normally sought for a male model. That makes you border line, for working with female models, except in the largest markets.

Research what commercial photogs are in your immediate area, or which ones from MM, are in your immediate area. Do testings with them. (The TFP thing is not exactly accurate. Testings existed long before anyone ever heard of TFP.) Especially seek out female photogs (they are just like guys......they like to work with the opposite sex.)

Just apply to TF castings and contact some local photographers to shoot you.

get off your lazy butt!  after that it gets easier