First decision is what do you want to hunt? Personally, nothing to me beats bugling bull elk!

One suggestion, if you wait until spring for the show, you may end up booking for 1+ years out. Most good outfitters, by Feb (Spingfield MA show) will be full or near full for that fall. The next fall (07 in this case) will be open.

Springfield has some good outfitters for a variety of game animals, lots of caribou and elk and bears. Pick a species and a price range, you mention once in a lifetime, well that can mean anything from a $3000 hunt to really BIG money for things like Dall sheep, mtn Goat, or other "exotic" type of game. Have a price in mind, hit the shows but be open to not hunting til 2007 if you book this winter. You may find openings, but be very wary of a guide who has LOTS of openings for the upcoming fall. Ask how many clients are repeat clients, or even consider a booking agent (I have a friend who hunts through one I can get the name/contact if you wish).

have fun, and if possible and she would enjoy it, bring the wife. Some outfitters have things for them to do if they come.

--Bob