8 Questions To Ask Your Hunting Guide

Using a hunting guide or outfitter has many benefits especially to new hunters or those who don’t hunt certain game frequently. There are many options across the country ranging from half day hunts to weekend long camping trips. Some may simply guide you along the hunting lands while others provide advice, equipment, shelter, and/or dogs. It’s important to do your research when choosing a guide and compare things like cost, location, and duration among other things. But here are some additional questions you may want to consider asking your guide before booking a trip:

1. Does the outfitter offer transportation to the camp or hunting site?
If you have to travel by plane to your hunting destination, find out if they offer airport pick up or if you will need a rental vehicle.

2. What are the lodging options?
Camps can range pretty dramatically from tents to 5 star lodges. This may make or break your decision when choosing a guide. You may also want to find out how far the camp is to the hunting area and what transportation you’ll need if any.

3. What are typical meals like?
A very good question for picky eaters or those who have special needs for certain allergies.

4. What is the terrain like?
If you or another hunter have certain limitations, you do not want your hunt ruined by tough terrain that you’re unable to navigate.

5. What is a typical day like from start to finish?
Find out if you will hunt all day, half days, break for lunch, etc.

6. What is the hunting style?
Choose a guide with a hunting style you enjoy or want to learn about such as spot and stalk, tree stand, or ground blind.

7. What gear will I need?
Find out if the guide will provide you with all the gear you need and what that list includes. If they do not, ask what gear your guide recommends. 

8. Will the outfitter take care of harvested game?
This is a big one. Ask your guide if they have the tools to process your game on site or if they provide processing services. If not, find out if there is a professional meat processor near by. You may also want to ask them to recommend a nearby taxidermist.


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