Q: "How should I pack for this trip?"
A: Pack for every type
of weather. If you aren't limited to a baggage weight, by all means
don't be too selective with your gear. Many big game hunts take place in
the fall when the weather in the mountains is completely and utterly
unpredictable. Regardless of what the weatherman forecasts, always pack
appropriately for hot, cold, wet, and dry conditions. Take an extra pair
of boots, and make sure that they fit well. Buy a pack large enough to
carry a rain suit and some extra clothing articles such as socks or
gloves with you in the field at all times, and you will never be sorry.
When it comes to your once in a lifetime big game hunt, leave nothing to
chance and be prepared for everything.
Q: "How much should I tip my guide?"
A: Gratuity in the hunting business
is strictly generosity based. If you feel like your guide did an
outstanding job in all areas, we say tip the man. Not all guides care if
they make a huge cash tip, but they do like to know that their client
was happy, and truly appreciated their expertise. Many hunting clients
tip between 10 to 20 percent of the total hunt cost, as a general rule.
Others may choose to tip a nice piece of equipment such as a pair of
binoculars, a rangefinder, or even a gun. Whatever you do, don't stiff
your guide if he safely and ethically provided you with a quality hunt.
Q: "Am I going to get an animal?"
A: Unfortunately, we can never
guarantee that. In a free chase environment, we pursue mature animals in
game rich terrain, ethically and diligently with the best outfitters and
guides in the business. Our job is to provide high percentage shot
opportunities, and once we have done our job, the rest is up to you.
Q: "What can I expect on this hunt, and
how should I prepare?"
A: Expect the unexpected. That
sounds trivial, but hunters spend countless hours during the year
preparing and working for a window of opportunity that once suddenly at
hand, ends in a matter of seconds. Throughout the rest of your hunt,
expect to sit and glass for long hours, climb or hike frequently, and in
many cases either drive or ride horseback for more long hours. Outside
of that agenda, eat and sleep.
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It is important that you know
your weapon. Practice with your weapon before you go on your
hunt - often, and in all types of scenarios; offhand,
sitting, kneeling, prone, etc. Confidence in your firearm or
bow is critical to success, and that means knowing your ammo
and arrows, and how to make them perform consistently at
varying distances.
********************************************************************************** Get in shape. If you're stopping every ten
minutes to get your breath, it's going to be a long hunt. Before your
next big game hunt, take the stairs to work, mow your grass with the
push mower, diet, run, swim, bike, - whatever, just try to show up in
your best physical condition.
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