ORIGINAL: DoctorDeath
I have a question on the subject of "Trophy" fees. I understand that when you go to Canada to bear hunt that the tag that you purchase actually allows you to havest two bears (depending on the area) ..if that is the case then why should an outfitter charge you an additional $500.00 trophy fee for a second bear? I think if I pay for a WEEKS hunt and tag my first bear on the first or second day and have paid for a tag that allows me two bear where does the guide get off charging me an extra $500 "trophy" fee? I have employeed his service for 6 days and have a tag for two bear ...whats your thoughts on this subject?
I think that the best way to describe it is as such...
It is like a restuarant that has a price fixed menu.
For your $75, you get the four courses, however for an additional $15, you can add a fifth course...
When it comes to the hunt that you mentioned, it is because you have entered into a contract with the outfitter for a 1 bear hunt and the hunt is priced based upon the work required to provide that service and that 2nd animal is like an additional course.
When I negotiate group rates for my groups to Canada for bear or caribou, the first thing that I'll get the outfitter to do is no trophy fee for the 2nd animal.
Now africa is a completely different beast entirely... with basically the all inclusive resort (package hunts) and the lodging-only resorts (al a carte trophy hunts) were you are responsible for all your own entertainment expenses.
SA