Get the Right Hunting Guide or Go Hungry

The Sportsman's Expo is the mecca for hunters. Gun, taxidermist, guides, art work, food, beverage and red neck entertainment, what more could a woman want?

This is a great place to shop for a hunting guide. They have to meet minimum requirements to get into a reputable show. So the first step is taken care of. They are licensed.

Listen to the hunting guide describe the hunt and the services. Here are some key things to listen for:

Accommodations

Experience

Likelihood of success

Fee

1. Accommodations are a matter of personal preference. It's a good idea to listen for things that are important to the individual. The term bunk house may sound great. Generally it can be interpreted to mean a room full of dorm beds, no privacy and limited bathroom facilities. It not that this bad, in fact many trips have been in bunk houses that have been wonderful. It is important to know before you go.

If running water, indoor plumbing, and electricity are essential be sure and ask those questions. Just because they have a big picture of the lodge displayed doesn't mean that is where every hunter will be housed.

Listen closely to all the details.

2. If someone has years of hunting experience you can usually tell. Experienced guides are usually eager to share a hunting story or two with anyone who will slow down and listen.

A favorite question is "How old does someone have to be to hunt there?" If they have to really think about the answer or avoid the question they may a little out of touch with rules and regulations. It is essential that a hunting guide is aware. If hunters break laws they are responsible along with the guide. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse, and it is helpful if the hunting guide is well versed.

3. If the hunting guide guarantees a successful hunt run, don't walk, away. An ethical hunting guide can not guarantee success. They don't know the hunter or their hunting skills. If someone can't hit the broad side of the barn they are not going to be able to hit game. If the hunting guide is guaranteeing success that means there would have to be someone else who could shoot the game if the hunter missed. Is is against the law and goes against the moral grain of every true hunter. The tag the shooter owns, goes on the animal the shooter hit, no excuses.

4. The fee should be disclosed in full detail. Does it included board and room? Does it include license and tag? Does it have a meat processing fee included? Is there a mandatory gratuity? Having last minute financial issues can ruin a great hunting experience.

Shopping for a hunting guide is like shopping for a good pair of hunting boots. Be sure to go with your gut instincts. If they don't feel right when you try them on, they aren't going feel right later.