Hi Guys:
My two cents worth. I am an outfitter and have used booking agents in the past on both sides of the money flow.
I think the most important thing for you to know is it's YOUR money. You are the boss. Wheater you go with an outfitter or a booking agent CHECK SEVERAL REFERENCES. As many as you can. With a booking agent I would insist on at least ten but should do 20 for the camp you are being referred to by him. Then insist you talk to the outfitter before booking. If you have any red flags - ANY - then move on.
One trick they will use is the old "I just found this outfitter and he is great take my word for it." Now this could be true so if the booking agent truley believes in the outfitter he will have no problem offering you a full money back guarentee for the hunt. If the agent will not do that IN WRITING AND SIGNED before you send your booking fee, then he does not truley believe. Then move on.
Again I say IT'S YOUR MONEY. Which makes it yhour responsibility to make the right choice. You are the boss the agent or outfitter is the empoyee. If they will not fulfill your wishes move on.
Would you buy a used car on a stranger telling you it's a great car you will love it. I think not. The same buyer beware mind set should be what you strive for.
I have 11 booking agents that say they book for me. I have only had one use me. They all want 15% to connect a hunter with me. I will only pay 10% because I do a very good job of booking on my own. I book up every year and mostly a year in advance. There are two booking agents I know I would trust. Steve West of Steve's Outdoor Adventures and Steve Gilhouse of World Adventures.
Best of luck to you. Once you do all the work to find the right outfitter or booking agent then you are done with the leg work.