A little different perspective here. I live right in the middle of a great elk and mule deer state. We also have moose and antelope along with sheep and goats as well. So needless to say I get an opportunity to hunt pretty much what ever I want as long as I can get the tag, but that's another subject.

Having said that due to changes in local populations and increased hunter presence I too have had to do the "Google Earth, Topo Map" method to find new hunting areas. I too have found great areas this way and immediately got into game without scouting.

BUT....I have also been hunting these species for many years. I have a pretty good understanding of the habitat they need and how hunters may hunt it do to difficulty in getting in the area. So even though I may be able to use Google Earth and good topo map to find great areas I also acknowledge that I do that with a lot of experience behind me.

I have never hunted whitetail in my life. If I were looking at a midwestern state to hunt them it would be a whole different ball game. Having no experience hunting them would make me question any type of decision I may try and make as far as hunting areas. That coupled with the fact that every penny counts and traveling a long way to realize I struck out completely on my choice of hunting grounds would drive me to look at hiring an outfitter. If I was looking at hunting elk or mule deer in another state then I would probably pass on hiring an outfitter and rely on my many years of experience. That and if I don't get one in another state then I still can come home and hunt them or go get them next year.

I just think for some guys the western hunting experience is new and probably more like a once in a lifetime (or at least a seldom in a lifetime) experience. Saving for a few years and hiring an outfitter isn't a bad way to go for some of these guys.

When I was in college I worked part time as a snowboard instructor. The locals thought taking lessons was lame. They could come up on the moutain anytime and have freinds teach them how at a fairly low expense. But some people came from all over the world and had one week to ski or snowboard and they needed to learn how to quickly to maximize that experience. Besides hiring an instructor, or outfitter, only contributes to the local economy. Heck it paid for some of books so that I could go through college.

I have no issues with outfitting and guiding, I think it's great. I have issues with dishonest and corrupt outfitters and guides.