Setting Expectations Before Booking

We've all heard stories of hunts that didn't go as expected. The biggest thing that will determine a hunter's satisfaction with their guided hunt is having appropriate expectations. Unfortunately, many people don't know all of the things they should ask before signing the outfitter contract and sending their deposit. Some questions will be situation-specific, but 90% of them are common among all hunts. We hope you can use this list and pick the ones that matter most to you.

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Be Specific and Pointed With Your Questions

Remember, you are spending YOUR money on the hunt. As long as you ask your questions in a respectful way, it is your right to understand what to expect from the hunt. Don't be afraid to ask not just whether food will be provided, but to ask, "What are examples of the kinds of meals we can expect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner". This is totally fair game. Trust us...asking these questions on the front end will lead to a much better experience for everyone involved.

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The Hunt

• Who exactly will be guiding the hunt and how experienced are they? 
• How many other hunters will be with us on the hunt? 
• How much scouting took place before the hunt?
• What is the historical success rate on this hunt? 
• How far of a shot will be needed (average shot and farthest shot)?
• What will be the physical difficulty level? 
• Describe a typical day.
• What is unique about the way you do your hunts? 
• Describe your ideal client and also the type of client that is not a good fit.
• What kind of first aid or emergency gear and preparation do you have?
• What is involved in getting tags for this hunt? Draw? Over-the-counter? Landowner? 
• Will the hunt be on public or private land? 
• What weather should be expected on this hunt? 

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The Outfitter

• Please provide your state outfitting license number (if applicable) and proof of liability insurance.
• How long have you been guiding?
• What's your guiding philosophy? Focused on the kill or enjoying the process? 
• Can you provide a few references from a few recent clients? 

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The Food & Amenities

• Describe the housing & sleeping arrangement in detail.
• What food and drinks will be provided for breakfast, lunch, and dinner? 
• Who prepares the food? 
• Is alcohol allowed? 
• Will there be cell service? If not, will the guide be carrying a satelite phone? 

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Responsibilities

• What gear does the hunter need to bring vs. what the outfitter brings? Give a full list.
• Who tracks, field dresses, and transports the meat & trophy to the processor? 
• How do you handle communication leading up to the start of the hunt? 

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Money

• What is the refund policy on the deposit? 
• Besides the outfitter fee, what other costs will be associated with the hunt? 
• What happens if an animal is wounded and not recovered? 
• Are there trophy fees? 
• What happens if the hunt has to be cancelled or called short by the outfitter due to weather or some unforeseen circumstance with the outfitter?

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