More and more sportsmen are escaping their back yards to hunt and fish in other, more remote parts of the country or the world. As they do, we're hearing more and more tales of fishing trips gone bust and ruined hunts. The need for information on these remote locales and the opportunities they offer is greater than ever.


Most hunting or fishing trips usually require contacting an outfitter or booking agent. The good news is most of these outfitters and booking agents are reputable. The bad news is some of them are not. So, how can avid outdoors people spot the "tricksters" and con artists who prey on unsuspecting sportsmen? Here are a few tips to help you avoid buying a "wild pig in a poke" when booking a hunting or fishing trip with an outfitter:


Beware the hard sell artists who over-promise and under-perform.Truly fine guides, outfitters and booking agents are like good dentists and lawyers - they have a following. Outfitters or agents who have been around for a while won't rely on pure hype to generate business; just the opposite. They'll paint a realistic picture of what you can expect, and what they cannot guarantee. The hard-sell, high-hype types on the other hand often have little repeat and referral business - a clear sign that something is wrong. And they'll boast that every client takes a trophy home. Too often a hard sell results in a hard fall for the client.
Watch for hidden costs.Some agents and outfitters deliberately "forget" to tell clients about the need for air charters, special licenses, trophy fees, gun taxes, meat handling and trophy shipment charges, etc. Such incidentals can add hundreds, even thousands of dollars to the cost of the trip. And what do you do if you find out about these charges after you've flown across the United States, driven to the Rocky Mountains, or journeyed all the way to Africa? You pay...and pay...and pay.
Verify who will conduct your hunt.. Many sportsmen who travel are often swayed by the reputation of a particular outfitter or guide only to arrive at camp to find they are scheduled to go out with a guide they've never heard of and, what's more, don't really like.
Get it in writing.Some hunting and fishing trips cost as much as the down payment on a car, or as much as the entire vehicle. And yet, countless hunters and anglers enter into trip agreements with just a handshake and no written agreement as to what is included, how many people will be in the boat or camp, whether the land or water will be private or open to the public, etc. Is it any wonder that most sportsmen find little legal recourse when things go wrong?
Ask for references.. Reputable guides and outfitters will be happy to supply the names and contact information of people who have fished or hunted with them. Contact these references and don't be afraid to ask the tough questions. You'll find most people will be eager to share their opinions and experiences -- and they'll respect your ability to shop wisely

Thanks to Jim White, and beOutdoors.com for their permission to reprint this article. Please bear in mind That beOutdoors.com has a copyright on this material.

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