RE: I'm Back from Alberta
I wrote a novel and my computer crashes...here's my take:"
1. You made a huge mistake when you didn't plan properly for a whole year (key).
2. Guide was a goof by the sounds of it by giving you a p.o.s.
3. You should have sighted in prior to heading out for your peace of mind and to make a ethical shot. Could have been a new world record you were going to shoot at. Do you really care what you are using? I do!!
4. Food & lodging fair at best...no harm done.
5. Most hunting up here requires you sitting all day in a blind (no heater usually) boring yes, but the pay off can be huge. Deal with it or go for a walk.
6. If the deer aren't moving and you push them, you might push them right off the land you are hunting. Not justifying the guides motives but if he ain't willing to work for you, I'd be giving him ..it!! It's up to you to speak up as well. Did you say anything to him? Just curious as nothing has been mentioned about you asking, reccomending him get off his lasy but and do something.
7. Weather up here is usually too hot or cold and too much snow or not enough. You just picked a bad week. Trust me, the last week was -30 and not fun at all. Actually you did ok, just not the best scenario but tough to do when you book a year in advance. Bad luck!!
8. Saw few deer, really can't complain. Sometimes I see 0 deer after sitting for a few days. Welcom to Alberta hunting, frustrating and great all at the same time.
9. DD you have a problem...it's addiction to big Alberta Whitetails. Some may call you stupid for spending $$ and others may sympathize. I know it well, I'm just lucky enough to live here. But it still gets me every year. I get mad but somehow I want to put myself through it all over again next season. Tough when you bring a bud and it doesn't work as planned.
Lastly, you are in a bad spot. You have killed a nice deer. Subconsciously, you want (and can get) another. Unfortunately it's not easy and may take a lifetime to achieve. Even with an outfitter! It's like going to Vegas and hitting a jackpot the first time...not hard but chances of doing it again are slim. Take your memories of past hunts, enjoy. Take the last ones and learn from them. Look for a new guide, research & get lots of references!!! Don't give up DD...but don't plan on shooting another 160+. Just dream of it, they do come true.
No disrespect to anyone on this post.