When it comes to planning a hunt, the options are endless. Some hunts require little more than a loose timeline, a packed lunch, and a loaded gun, but others can be much more daunting, even for an experienced hunter. A turkey hunt one county over is a far cry from stalking elk through the Rockies, but if you’ve never done either, you’re still starting from square one.

That’s where hunting guides and hunting outfitters come in – someone else with the knowledge and skill to help close the gap between you and the game you chase.

But, don’t be fooled – the two titles are not mutually exclusive.

You might be shaking your head in confusion at that statement, but I’m here to tell you all you need to know about the difference between hunting guides and hunting outfitters, which one you may need for a particular hunt, and how to find them.

Let’s start with the basics:

A hunting guide is a person who takes you hunting – they “guide” you to a particular hunting spot or area (knowing all of the rules and regulations there), get the hunt set up for you, call game, and get you back out safely and [hopefully] successfully. But with a guide, the hunter brings off of his or her own weapons and gear.

A hunting outfitter does everything a guide does (or hires a guide to do so), but may also equip you with weapons, gear, and other miscellanea needed for the hunt. Outfitters will typically provide accommodations, meals, and transportation, or will arrange them for you in some way. The outfitter is more of a “full package” provider.

Did I confuse you even more? Don’t worry – even some of my fellow hunters have to be reminded about the differences when planning an excursion.

Click here to read more and check out the full article over at the Boyd’s Hardwood Gunstocks blog!