Self-guided archery hunts

We offer unguided bow hunts for mule deer, caribou, elk, pronghorn antelope, and a few other animals.

Unguided big game hunts are not for everybody. Though they're often less expensive than fully guided trips, there are disadvantages.

For example, only guided hunters are allowed on the majority of top-quality hunting leases and Indian reservations. Sometimes it's worth the extra money for a guided trip just to be able to hunt the best areas.

Some hunts are difficult or impossible to pull off without the equipment and resources that an outfitter or guide can offer. Just to reach the best portions of many ranches, you'll need an ATV, a 4WD truck or horses. Outfitters often have access to several different properties, and so if game seems to be scarce on one lease, they can often move guided hunters to another lease. By contrast, a self-guided hunter typically is limited to one lease or one area. That limits success if unusual weather or another factor has caused animals to move.

We advise most caribou hunters to pay the extra money for a guided hunt simply because you'll be more mobile. In Quebec guided hunters typically take boats each day to different hunting areas, while self-guided hunters must walk from camp. In Alaska guided hunters often have a plane at their disposal, so if the herds aren't nearby, the guide can locate them by air and move though you must wait till the next day to hunt. If the caribou herds move well away from camp, self-guided hunters have a tough time scoring.

Still, sometimes a self-guided hunt is a good idea, especially if you are in good physical condition, have the necessary equipment, and have a high degree of hunting skill.

If you're new at hunting a particular species or a particular type of habitat, usually it's wise to book a guided hunt the first couple of times. Once you feel confident in hunting that animal or that area, you can often do just fine on your own.

Mature mule deer and mature bull elk are much more difficult to hunt than most hunters realize. Rifle seasons usually take place outside the rut, meaning trophy-size deer and elk typically stay in heavy cover except at night.

At the right are links to articles that every self-guided hunter should read. If you're convinced a self-guided hunt is what you want, please call us. Keep in mind that you must hire a guide to hunt grizzlies, goats or sheep in Alaska, any big game animal in western Canada, or in wilderness areas in Wyoming.