In hunting, there are so variables...people are not stupid, animals are not stupid, time, desire, etc....

I have been on plenty of hunts where the guide/outfitter was actually a hinderence-they got inmy way! And yet, I was forced to have them if I wanted to enjoy the challenge/experience(Canada, eh?)Ihave plenty ofstories where the guide was there to simply take people's money-hunters were driven around in a truck and never once shown an aminal. I guess you get what you pay for-Right? DO YOUR HOMEWORK! TALK TO REFERENCES!

I've been on hunts where both guide and hunter have worked their collective A$$ offjust to get a glimps of an animal-killing one would have been icing on the cake! The terrain was difficult. The weather condition were marginal and the altitude sucked the oxygen right out of you. Having an experienced individual/guide along meant life or death (no room for a DIY hunt). There was no guarantee whatsoever. I cannot see how hauling aP&Y sheep out of the hills, after such an adventure, can be diminished by the use of a guide. I'dasked the perpitrator of such mockery to put his money where his mouth is!

So, to answer your question, I think I would weigh the situation before I passed judgement. Things are not black and white to me. If respect is earned, I'll give it.

I hunted a friend'sfamily property in Ohio (I played soccer with this individual for many years). On this property (66 acres), there are over 30 different stands. I was shown an aerial photo of the property and was given a tour of the property. I was shown every stand available. Based on past experiences, I, subconsiousely, select one stand. I killed my first P&Y buck (167- 3/8) from that stand. I was wearing every ounce of clothing I could muster. That day was the coolest day I've ever experienced while hunting (the other hunters present were sitting in the cabin drinking coffee). I sat out there for hours-Freezing!I never moved the entire day. I did what no one else was willing to do...So, If you want to taint that accomplishment, Knock yourself out. It matters not to me! I know what I did and I have a very nice buck to show for it. By the way, this was the first and only P&Y buck to come off that property.

Folks, it's not about keeping up with the Jones'. It's about having fun!