Questions to Ask, When to Be Wary, and Where to Start
Booking a guided hunting trip is a big investment—of time, money, and trust. Choosing the right outfitter is key to a rewarding and ethical experience. Here we will walk you through the essential questions to ask, warning signs to look for, and how to use trusted tools (like the GOABC Outfitter Search Tool) to find a reputable guide outfitter.
Why Choose a GOABC Member?
GOABC members are the gold standard in BC, the Yukon, and Northwest Territories guide outfitting. Here’s why:
- Accountable – All members sign a Code of Conduct and are held to ethical, fair, and professional standards. They carry liability insurance and—if part of the GOABC insurance program—offer protected deposits.
- Sustainable – Support the practice of Sustainable Use. They have a rich tradition of sustainable hunting and are conservative in their wildlife conservation principles.
- Knowledgeable – Members are generally more experienced, involved, and informed about the latest industry requirements.
- United – Work collaboratively for the betterment of the industry.
- Stewardship-Focused – Wildlife First is more than just a GOABC tag line. Defined territories ensure that GOABC members take a long-term perspective on wildlife management.
Protect your investment. Hunt with a GOABC member.
Smart Questions to Ask Before Booking
Whether speaking to an outfitter directly or browsing their website, make sure you get clear answers to:
- Are you a GOABC member?
A simple, yet important filter. GOABC membership ensures a baseline of professionalism, ethics, and accountability.
- What’s included in the price? And what’s NOT included?
Understand what’s covered and what’s not: guiding, meals, accommodation, transport, trophy care, licenses, and tags.
- Can I see references or testimonials?
Reputable outfitters are happy to share client feedback.
- How long have you been operating in this territory?
Experience in the region often means better wildlife knowledge and smoother logistics.
- What’s your success rate—and how is that defined?
Ask how they calculate it. A 100% “opportunity rate” is not the same as 100% harvest.
- What happens if the hunt is unsuccessful?
This can reveal an outfitter’s attitude toward client service and ethics.
- What species are huntable in your area and during what times of the year?
Make sure their quotas match your target species and location.
- Do you carry liability insurance?
All GOABC members do—but always verify.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unclear pricing or vague promises – If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- No license or insurance information – Walk away.
- Negative reviews or lack of references – Consistency matters.
- Pushy sales tactics – Ethical outfitters are confident in their service and don’t rely on pressure.
- Poor communication – If it’s hard to get answers before booking, it will be worse later.
Tools to Help You Find the Right Fit
Start with the GOABC Outfitter Search Tool to browse verified outfitters based on species, location, or name. Every listing provides contact info, photos, and direct links to the outfitter’s website or social channels.
