If I lived where you do I would say the same, but since I live in crummy Ohio with our grand total of 1 big game animal the best I can do is a nonresident tag There are a lot of issues why I go with outfitters from time to time, and honestly it comes down to available time. I just don't have the time to do the research necessary to pull off an equivalentDIY hunt. I have never had a guide though because I don't want someone else telling me how to hunt.

I would go free range. I don't have a real reason other than I pondered the same question for some time and just wouldn't feel right about being behind a fence even though it would not be a limiting factor. Either way you go, I hope you have a blast!