How can I learn who my father is?

I know his full name, although the first and last name could be spelled in a few ways. I know he is ful native american, and know he was mostly on the west coast. I know he has a criminal record in California for trashing a bar. I know his general age. I have tried what little I can do, but with no results. Has anyone had any luck with private detectives, or perhaps know of a cheaper way to find him?