RE: why is it so expensive to go to a hunting lodge!
The belt region in AL has great hunting, and relatively less cost than some other places. It might not be worth looking into.
I've always wanted to hunt the belt region, or MT's rivers valleys. However, I take more pride in shooting a smaller buck herethat I worked for than paying to hunt for a big buck.
The only consolation for me if I go on a deer hunting trip is the hunting/travel experience as a whole. Meaning, enjoying the outdoors in an area I typically would not get to hunt without some help. Getting a buck would be a bonus.